Post Cooling Period (Tier 2 ICT to General) How to apply

[kalvinder]

Hi,

I have been to UK on a Tier 2 ICT (Short term assignment) from 28th Aug 2011 to 2nd June 2012. My visa was issued in mid August 2011. I am back in india after completion of my assignment working with the same sponsoring employer. I have been offered a job by a different A rated UK sponsor and they are eager to apply for my COS in Tier 2 general category. In June 2012, I inquired UKBA about any cooling period which applies in my case and i got the response saying that 12 month cooling period does apply.

My Tier ICT (Short term) visa expired on 15th June 2012 and the mentioned cooling off period ends on 15th june 2013. Can anyone please let me know, when at the earliest i can apply for Tier 2 general visa with a different A rated sponsor. Can i apply before 15th june 2013 and assume UKBA would consider granting my visa starting from 15th june 2013 or is it that i have to apply only after 15h june 2013. Please advice appropriately considering that i want to apply at earliest without being rejected because of cooling period? Also, Please suggest when should i apply for my wife's dependent visa?

Thanks and Regards,
Kal