Query on eligibility for PR

[Vicks_t]

Hi guys,
I have a doubt on my eligibility of applying for PR. I got my HSMP visa(Tier 1) on 8th Jan 2008, but i came to UK only on 18th of April 2008. So, after a gap of 3 months 10 days after stamping of HSMP.
Now, my extension time is coming up i.e. 8th Jan 2013. I am not sure if i am eligible to apply for PR directly instead of extension? Can you please share if you are aware of the policy? I am not clear from the home office website.

Thanks for your help.

[cs95tdg]

Take a look at Q5 under the sticky below for information related to your question.

http://www.immigrationboards.com/viewtopic.php?t=79378

(Q5 My current leave as economic migrant expires before I complete the qualifying residential period. Can I apply for ILR?)

Based the fact that you entered the UK 3 months after your original EC date, my understanding is that you will need to apply for an extension before you become eligible for ILR.

[Vicks_t]

Thanks for the response 'cs95tdg'. Double fees! If i have to go for extension,i will get it for next three years until Jan 8 2016. So, is it that i can write the Life in the UK test and apply for ILR anytime within the next three years starting from the day of extension of visa?
Please let me know if there is a pointer for more info on this.
Thanks again for the quick response.

[cs95tdg]

Thanks for the response 'cs95tdg'. Double fees! If i have to go for extension,i will get it for next three years until Jan 8 2016. So, is it that i can write the Life in the UK test and apply for ILR anytime within the next three years starting from the day of extension of visa?
Please let me know if there is a pointer for more info on this.
Thanks again for the quick response.

You can take the Life in the UK test any time you want. Be aware though that the test is due to change this Autumn. From your original post this is what I understand:

Your Original EC date = 8th Jan 2008
Your Date of Entry into the UK = 18th April 2008

Based on this you will become eligible for ILR 28 days before the 5th anniversary from the Date of Entry. I.e. 18th April 2013 - 28days.

So you can apply for ILR anytime after the above. If you currently don't have sufficient leave to remain to cover the 5 year residency period you need to apply for an extension. Most of the information you need including what I've stated here is available in the FAQ sticky I pointed you to in my previous post. Do read through all the relevant information available there beforehand.

Additionally this post would be better placed under the "Indefinite Leave to Remain" forum.

[Vicks_t]

Thanks cs95tdg for the info. Much appreciated.