Some questions about Tier-2 extension COS

[tuanvo1982]

My tier2 general visa will be expired on 1/Sep/2013.
1. Do I still use Tier-2 application form ?
2. When should I request for a new allocation?(I should renew allocation or just request increase) last time, It took 3 month for request a new allocation.
3. If we have an allocation, how long will it expired if we not assign yet.
4. If it was assigned then will it be expired in 3 months?

Thank you very much

[geriatrix]

1. Use the form available on this webpage.
2. As and when you can be sure that you will be able to make a leave to remain application before your current leave expires.
3. Three months.
4. Yes.

[tuanvo1982]

1. Use the form available on this webpage.
2. As and when you can be sure that you will be able to make a leave to remain application before your current leave expires.
3. Three months.
4. Yes.

I think restricted Cos will be expired in 3 months but in my case it will be unrestricted Cos. is this also expired in 3 months? My tier-2 visa was before 6-April-2011.

For example, If I renew annual allocation so I think it should be valid for this financial year (not 3 month) so my employer can assign whenever. it is better than not apply for renewing annual allocation.

because If I request to increase an allocation then it will take time and not sure when they will approve that. Maybe after my visa is expired.

Honestly I am thinking of the difference between the allocation if you get by renewing annual allocation(before 6-April) and requesting increase allocation?

[tuanvo1982]

I have found some information to clarify about Cos and allocation of Cos
- The allocation will be valid in 1 year
- CoS is valid in three months from issued date.

So I will ask for renewing annual allocation for next year (2013) then we will have an early allocation to assign CoS around 11-April or in May/2013, then my employer will assign Cos before my visa is expired. In this plan, we don't get problem with waitting for requesing of increasing allocation.
Do you think it works?

Thanks

[manci]

keep in mind that unrestricted CoS allocations are not for the calendar year but 6 April to 5 April.