NEED ADVICE: TIER 2 - SWITCHING JOBS

[LilNeko]

Hi all,

I would appreciate any help or guidance you might have.

I've been on a Tier II General visa since last year (2015) and the visa is not due to expire until 2018. However, I will be parting ways with my current employer as we are not a good fit.

I'm currently seeking a new job. My current employer is aware that I will be leaving, but has agreed not to stop sponsoring me until I have found a new employer. Now, I'm confused about the next steps..

- I understand that I will require a new CoS once I've been hired by a new employer, but will a new visa be given to me? Will my current one be amended? What happens?
- If I require a new visa, does that mean I have to pay all the visa fees + NHS surcharge again? I have already paid an NHS surcharge for three years in advance. Will this be refunded to me?
- Is the RLMT for the employers?
- Anything else important I should be aware of?

Many thanks in advance.

[CR001]

- I understand that I will require a new CoS once I've been hired by a new employer, but will a new visa be given to me? Will my current one be amended? What happens? You have to apply for a new visa with the new sponsor.

- If I require a new visa, does that mean I have to pay all the visa fees + NHS surcharge again? I have already paid an NHS surcharge for three years in advance. Will this be refunded to me? Yes, health surcharge is payable with each application you make. It is your choice to change sponsors not HO's. You might get a refund, you might not.

- What is the resident labour market test and do I need to do this? Yes, your new sponsor will have to complete RLMT in accordance with HO requirements. It is a very specific process they have to follow and if they are an approved sponsor, they will know what to do. This is to confirm that there is no British, settled or EU person suitable for the job and to make sure that you have not be pre-selected before RLMT.

- Anything else you think I should be aware of? Useful links with lots of information here (click)