URGENT INFO:Switching from work permit to HSMP

[ved77]

Dear All

Could someone explain the merits of switching from a work permit to HSMP? I'm currently employed on a 3 year work permit, but I recently was put up for promotion (which increases my salary by 15% and some additional responsibilities).

My WP expires in July 07. Although my company is willing to apply for an extension - in my understanding of the rules - we would need to apply for a fresh permit (with a residential labour test) due to the promotion and changed job specs.

I'm currently eligible under the revised HSMP (just), but only before my 30th birthday, which is next week. So should I go for the HSMP? Any advice much appreciated.


Many thanks,
Ved

[webhunter]

Firstly, if your birthday is next week and if you are not going to be eligible after that (then you wont be eligible, even if you apply today).

The rule is, the date of the application must be atleast 2months earlier than the age you are claiming for. In your case since your birthday is next week, you will only get points for your age (30), only if you applied 2 months back.

I dont think the rest of the question is relevant anymore as you will not qualify based on the above fact.

[nakvis]

Hi,

As per my knowledge, the HSMP Team calculate the age on the day they receive the application. If the application is reached HO before the birthday then you will get points for the age section.

Regards

[ved77]

Hi Webhunter,

According to the HSMP Guidance

"You should ensure that your application form reaches us before your birthday if you are close to passing from one age band into another.

Any application received by us on or after a birthday that puts you into the next age category will be assessed according to the older category

Any application received by us on or after your birthday can no longer be considered under the previous age band. For example, if you are about to reach your 28th Birthday, and you wish to claim 20 points for being in the 27 or under age category, you should ensure that your applications reaches us by the last working day before your 28th Birthday."

Nothing about 2 months here. Where did you get that information from. I'd be grateful for a reply to my question as well.

Thanks

[webhunter]

My knowledge is purely based on the application made a year ago. If they have changed the guidelines as per your post, it looks there is one good thing the home office has done.

Ok, coming back to your post, assuming that birthday is not a criteria. Do you really think, you can gather all the documentation in less than a week? have you seen all the evidence that is required to get a HSMP? for example stamping/signing ; letter from university /IELTs etc.,

Well assuming you have done your background work and you have all the documenation ready, and you have got the HSMP approval, it is likely that you might be rejected for extension 2 yrs down the line, if that happens all the time you spent so far on WP will be reset.

Considering all the above facts, I would advice you to stick with WorkPermit (you have got a payrise and a promotion, so I dont think you have any plans of leaving your employer soon).