Re application of tier 2 visa

[praveenshettyno1]

Hi

I needed some information. I couldn't really find the answer to my particular situation.

I was resident in UK from Aug 2010 till Jan 2013 on a Tier 2 general visa.
This Tier 2 visa was valid from Aug 2010 till June 2013 (renewed once in between).
I was holding a Biometric residence permit after renewal (which has now expired).

I then came back to India for work/personal reasons end of Jan 2013.

I will be getting a job in the UK again and would need to apply for a Tier 2 visa.
My new job is for 16 months and will then be extended.
(Hypothetically if I DO get the visa) The info I need is:

1. Any idea if I will be given the visa for 3 years or only for 16 months?

2. How many times can I extend the Tier 2 visa (Since I already had a Tier 2 previously prior to April 2011)? Only 1 more time for 3 yrs or unlimited since I had a previous Tier 2 prior to April 2011?

The reason I ask is to see if I have a chance to apply for ILR at the end of 5 yrs.
My salary bracket is well above the requirement needed and there are no other problems to getting the required points for the visa.

All your inputs will be appreciated.

Regards

P.Shetty

[Apam]

Your sponsor determines the length of tier 2 visa, not ukba.
You can ask them to give you 3 years ie as per start date and finish date on cos!
Your previous tier 2 stay in the UK doesn't count anymore once you break your continuity of stay. Currently you can stay on tier 2 for max 6 years continously and apply for ilr after 5 years. The rules could change, so just keep watching the space.