Tier 2 (ICT) long term extension and ILR

[crunch]

Hi

I have a tier 2 inter-company transfer long term visa that expires middle of June 2013. It was issued in May 2011.

A few questions: If I can get it extended for 3 years, do I then qualify for ILR?

My employer says "no" to the above. They've offered me a 3 year fixed term contract. This means I have to (i) pray that the immigration laws change, (ii) leave the UK after 3 years.

Alternatively, I was thinking of leaving the UK to apply for tier 2 (general) - if my employer will support this. Can I do this before my current visa expires? I assume that the past 2 years will be forfeit in terms of the 5 years for ILR?

What are my other options?

Thanks in advance.

[manci]

Hi

I have a tier 2 inter-company transfer long term visa that expires middle of June 2013. It was issued in May 2011.

A few questions: If I can get it extended for 3 years, do I then qualify for ILR? NO, because your initial T2 ICT leave was not before 6 April 2010

My employer says "no" to the above. They've offered me a 3 year fixed term contract. This means I have to (i) pray that the immigration laws change, (ii) leave the UK after 3 years. (ii) is correct, max stay in the UK in your situation is 5 years.

Alternatively, I was thinking of leaving the UK to apply for tier 2 (general) - if my employer will support this. Can I do this before my current visa expires? I assume that the past 2 years will be forfeit in terms of the 5 years for ILR?
If you applied for T2G entry clearance you would unfortunately be subject to a 12 month cooling-off period

What are my other options?

Thanks in advance.