Extending the Tier 2 Visa

[ukfriend]

Hi Everyone

I am currently in Tier 2 Visa since July 2013 which will end in Aug 2016 (3 years) and then have to apply for extension for another 2 years to make it 5 years for ILR.

My question is: Will the recent change in Tier 2 Visa and salary limit apply to me when I extend my visa in Aug 2016 or would I fall under old rule with same old salary limit as it was at the time I first applied for Tier 2 i.e. July 2013?

Many thanks.

[geriatrix]

The changes you refer to are relevant when applying for settlement, not extension. So, you won't be affected by them in 2016 but may be affected by them if and when you apply for settlement.

[ukfriend]

Thank you so much for your reply.

I have got another query: What if I change my employment now (before the end of first 3 years of my current visa), will I be still counted under the rules as per Aug 2013 or as per the current one?

Also, will I get another 3 years of Tier 2 visa from the new employer if I apply now or is it going to remain same as the current one i.e. new visa only up to Aug 2016 which is just a year or so and then re-apply for extension for remaining 2 years to make it total 5 years?

[geriatrix]

As per the COP (from 6-Apr-2015) and Appendix J.

In line with immigration rules (245GEor 245HE, as the case may be).