Switch to Tier 2 General Visa

I am in UK on Tier 2 ICT Short Term Staff Visa and my visa will expire on 12th April' 2016. I am in UK since April 2015.

1> Is it possible to switch into Tier 2 General Visa from UK or I need to travel to India and apply form there? Is any cooling period restrictions applicable?

2> Can I extend my visa to ICT Long Term Staff only from UK?

3> Where can I find cooling period details as none available on gov.uk.

1. You can only apply from home country and you will have to serve a 12 month cooling off period, counted from the date you leave the UK.

2. Not sure.

3. See the links within this topic. FAQs - Tier 2 ICT to Tier 2 General (click)

Reply for (2) - You cannot do it from UK. You need to apply for entry clearance from your home country. 12 month cool off will not apply from T2 ICT Short term to ICT Long term visa.

Thanks for the information.
I called the UK Gov helpline and they said that I can switch to Tier 2 General from my home country. There is no cooling period from Short Term to General.

I think they have given incorrect info. The T2 Sponsor guidance document clearly states about the conditions for cool-off. Suggest you go through it.

As many members will already have discovered to their cost, the UKVI 'help line' is notorious for giving incorrect information, even on the simplest of immigration issues. They will take no responsibility for their poor advice. This cogent article explains...
https://www.freemovement.org.uk/immigra ... pectation/