Tier 2 General v/s Dependent Visa

[K_Tier2 General]

Hi All,
I have SAP HR background and have been working in UK since July,10 on Tier 2 ICT (before that I was here from Jan,09 to May,09). My husband is also in UK on Tier 2 ICT since Nov,11.
As per the rules, I am eligible to switch from ICT to General while being in UK without any cooling period. My employer may not extend my visa now, so exploring options for Tier 2 General or dependent visa. My queries are:
1. If PR is not a concern, then which one would be a better option - Dependent or Tier 2 General.
- Dependent visa would not cost us anything and Tier 2 General would cost almost 2.5k initially and then 25% +taxes every month.
- In Dependent visa, I can go for contract or permanent job (though I understand, that most company may not offer a permanent role to a ICT dependent), while in Tier 2 general, it can be a contract job only.
- Also I want to understand, in job market, what is preferred by employers - Dependent visa or Tier 2 General (this would probably be the deciding factor for us)
We are clear about most of the points, just weighing all pros and cons before making final decision. Any input would be appreciated.

[vinny]

Why isn't ILR a concern?

[K_Tier2 General]

We do not have visibility for that long period. It was getting too complicated, so we tried to simplify it by prioritizing our immediate goals, which is to be able to live and work here. ILR is not out of scope just not that high on the list. Hope, that helps.
Rgds

[vinny]

If your long term goals are to remain the in UK, then you should keep your ILR options open.

Leave as a dependant would only last as long as your spouse's.

What were you doing in Jan 09? Are you not eligible for ILR in Jan 14?

[K_Tier2 General]

Yes, I understand that, but as after being one yr on dependent visa, I can anyway switch to tier 2 general. Hence we are thinking, if it might be a good option to explore the market on dependent visa, get settled n switch to tier 2 general after a yr, as the per the situation.
Can you also help me understand which one is more favoured by employers. I have heard mixed reviews, so m confused about it.
Thanks !!

[K_Tier2 General]

No, as I came after April10, my current period does not count for ILR (or else I wud not have thought so much about tier 2 general)
It will start once I switch to tier 2 general. Also my husband ICT till Nov15.

[vinny]

You cannot switch from dependant leave to Tier 2 (General) within the UK. You would have to apply for entry clearance from your home country.

[K_Tier2 General]

Yes, I'll have to go to India to get it done, but what I meant is that option will remain open after a year.