Tier 2 - ICT (Long Term Staff) - Furlough

[Maria7890]

Hello. Question related to furlough on Tier-2 Visas.

I have been asked to be furlough for two months (April & May). I know the Home Office has allowed visas holders to be furloughed for more than four weeks, so I know I can accept the furlough for April.

My concern is for May, as my new visa (starts May 1) comes with specific salary minimums and I will be below this if I am furloughed (see details below).

My employer is pressuring me into accepting and sign the furlough paperwork. They say it'll be fine cause my bonus will keep me above the minimum. My understanding is that the government has not waived any of the salary requirements (yet) but also that the minimum is only related to the BASE SALARY which is outlined in the COS, which does NOT include any bonus payments or benefits.

It is my understanding that we need to report any reduction in the COS to the Home Office within ten days. And the Home Office can revoke/change my visa if necessary.

Am I right in pushing back on the furlough for May? I am very concerned this will affect my immigration status in the future.

Any advice or clarification would be much appreciated.

Thank you,
Maria


- American citizen
- Currently on Tier-2 ICT, expires on April 30, 2020 (3 years total)
- Approved on Tier-2 ICT (Long-term Staff, minimum salary on COS of +120,000 per year, for nine years total) expires May 13, 2025

[CR001]

Your employer would have received updates ukvi.

uk-tier-2-employer-sponsored-visas/covi ... 99566.html