GTV Duration (switching from SW visa) and dependents' extensions

Dear Experts,

I'm in a tricky situation that requires GTV, ILR and IHS refund expertise.

My current 3-year Skilled Worker Visa expires on 27-Mar-25. I entered UK first time on 15-Jun-22 along with my two dependents.

I'll be switching to GTV (from skilled worker visa) with endorsement from British Academy based on the support/endorsement letter from my University where I work as an academician/researcher.
(For reference, GTV Application charges: £ 716 per person and IHS charges: £ 1035 per person.)

Q1. For how long should I apply for GTV considering my dependents will need to apply for their extensions to complete 5 years? Is it better to apply (my GTV and their extensions) only for one year now and then apply again next year after I get ILR OR apply for 3 or 4 years to avoid application charges for both dependents?

Q2. If I apply for 3 or 4 year GTV so that my dependents avoid multiple application charges, will I get IHS refund for my remaining duration on applying for ILR as soon as I'm eligible for ILR?

Q3. Assuming that I get my GTV in time, when will I be eligible for ILR on my GTV - 27th March 25 (current Visa expiry) or 15th June 25 (3 years from my entry to UK) or some other date? How soon can I apply for ILR?

Your suggestions may be very helpful. Please revert if any more information is required to answer this.

Kind regards,
S

Dear team,

I have read replies from CR001, Simba and others in other posts. These helped me in understanding some more things but I got stuck now and need your help for further understanding. I'm rephrasing my query for more clarity.

I entered on SKW in June 2022 (Visa expiring in March 2025). I'm applying for GTV now and intend to apply for ILR when possible. Please suggest which option should I go for-

a) Apply for 1 year GTV now for me and 1 year extension for dependents. After my 3 years completion in June 2025, I will apply for ILR. In March 2026, my dependents will apply for extension. In March/April 2027, my dependents will apply for ILR.

b) Apply for 2 year GTV now for me and 2 year extension for dependents. After my 3 years completion in June 2025, I will apply for ILR. In March/April 2027, my dependents will apply for ILR.

c) Any other option in your opinion?

Thank you in advance.

Kind regards

Hi,

I am also facing the similar situation and seeking advice on dependent visa extension. the complication is I switched to GTV one year ago and subsequently got my ILR through GTV two weeks ago while my dependents are still on skilled worker visa. In this scenario, I should apply for Skilled worker visa / GTV visa extension and which is the right form . Many thanks in advance.

Hi,

Requesting anyone having some knowledge on this to respond please. Seems like GTV expertise is scarce. Repeating my query for some reply while hoping for some response-

"I entered on SKW in June 2022 (Visa expiring in March 2025). I'm applying for GTV now and intend to apply for ILR when possible. Please suggest which option should I go for-

a) Apply for 1 year GTV now for me and 1 year extension for dependents. After my 3 years completion in June 2025, I will apply for ILR. In March 2026, my dependents will apply for extension. In March/April 2027, my dependents will apply for ILR.

b) Apply for 2 year GTV now for me and 2 year extension for dependents. After my 3 years completion in June 2025, I will apply for ILR. In March/April 2027, my dependents will apply for ILR.

c) Any other option in your opinion?"

Best regards,
SG

Choosing either option is down to you, both are completely valid. The length of the GTV is a mere personal choice and depending on particular circumstances. That's the flexibility the GTV route gives, you can choose the duration from a range of options.

The lack of responses has nothing to do with a lack of "GTV expertise" on the forum, the same topic has been discussed many times.

Once again, there is no obligation or requirement to apply for ILR in exactly 3 (or 5) years. Also please note that there is no refund of IHS fees when applying for ILR, irrespective of the route or the time remaining in the leave.

Thank you for your response. This was very helpful.

Hi there,

What did you eventually decide to do?

I am in a similar situation. My main question is:

I came on a Skilled worker visa in August 2021. So, been here for three years and six months.

I have a PhD and I work at a Russel group university. If I apply for a GTV now and get it, am I immediately eligible to apply for ILR ? Can I apply for ILR the very next day after receiving my GTV?

Also, can you give any tips on the recommendation letter can be structured?

Thank you.

Hi,

I logged in today after about a month so saw your query just now. Replying your questions-

1) I applied for 2 year GTV extension.
2) Yes, you can apply next day.
3) I got the guarantor letter from HR and applied for endorsement from British Academy so not aware of recommendation letter, probably required for peer review route.

Hope these help.

Best wishes,
SG