Tier 1 PSW to Tier 2 as a Contractor: what are my options?

[srinatha]

I studied here in UK on a student visa, finished and got Tier 1 PSW and since then I've been working as an IT Contractor. Now it's time to switch and since Tier 1 (General) has closed to PSW, I can't switch to that. I don't have access to £200,000 funds so the only one I'm looking at is Tier 2 General (or is there any other I can switch to?) What options do I have as a Contractor? Thank you.

[geriatrix]

What do you mean when you say you work as a contractor?

e.g.-
1. Own a company, are the director and the company enters into contract with clients.
2. Work as an employee of an umbrella company who in turn put you on an assignment for their clients.

[srinatha]

Sushdmehta, I'm with an umbrella company at the moment. Although they do not put me on assignments. I get the contracts myself. So I'd say No 2 is closer to my situation. Although I can always register my own Ltd company if that will be needed to get my visa.
Let me also add that my Umbrella company are unable to sponsor Tier 2 visas.

[geriatrix]

Option 1 is not allowed under Tier 2.

So, you need to find an employer to sponsor you if you wish you apply for leave as a Tier 2 migrant.