Query regarding New Job while Visa extn underprocessing?

[susheel]

Dear All,

I have a small query regarding the chances of getting a new join while applying for visa extension. Actually I have to apply for the extension of my Tier 1 General visa by mid Feb. And my current contract (Software development) is getting over by the end of March. As I am applying for the Visa by post the time taken for the approval would be around 3-4 months minimum. and this is the time I would be applying for a new job. My concern is what chances do I stand of getting a new job while the Visa renewal is under process? Do companies hire such people or they look for people with Visa in hand?

Please suggest whether I should apply by post or go in for the in-person option based on the above mentiones situation?

Your views and guidance would be highly appraciated.

Thanks & Regards

Susheel

[mulderpf]

It's completely up to the companies involved whether or not they want to take the chance or not.

There is an employer checking service they can use, but you only have right to remain and work in the country until your visa application is decided. After that, it's all dependent on the decision of your application. Some companies may be willing to take that risk if they really really want to employ you, but I can't imagine that this would be the case for the majority.

Personally, I would not want to take the risk of employing someone while their visa application is in process as I wouldn't know the outcome and I could end up wasting two months training someone up, simply for them to go.

In your situation, I would definitely recommend in-person appointment. Whilst some potential employers may decide to take you on, I suspect the majority (rightly so) would rather employ someone with a bit more stability on their side.