Switching from Tier 2 ICT Short term to Tier 1 General

[baijub]

Hi,

I am currently in UK on ICT Tier 2 Short term . Can I switch to Tier 1 (General), given I have an offer from a new employer and they are ready to sponsor. Does cooling off period apply in my scenario ?

Thanks

[moonlight55]

Did you mean Tier 1 or tier 2?

Tier 1 is closed for new applications. So, you cannot apply.

For Tier 2, you will be submit to the cool off period of 12 months from the day you return from UK unless you are paid £153,500 or higher.

[baijub]

Thanks. And sorry....I meant Tier 2 general.

So there is not provision to switch to tier 2 general from UK , without going through "cooling off" period ?

Only option is to go back , go through the "cooling off" period and then apply to Tier 2 general?

[physicskate]

Thanks. And sorry....I meant Tier 2 general.

So there is not provision to switch to tier 2 general from UK , without going through "cooling off" period ?

Only option is to go back , go through the "cooling off" period and then apply to Tier 2 general?

You appear to understand the rules. You are correct - there is no way that you can avoid leaving the country and undergoing the cooling off period in order to apply for a Tier 2 General visa.