Tier 2 in country application should be done for 3 years or

[suhas.chatekar]

I am on UK on Tier 2 which expires in few months. I have got a new employer who is willing to sponsor my work permit. I am giving all my details to them at the moment. They would make sure that I get my new visa after my current one expires. But one thing is bothering me. They are saying that they would apply for a 5 years leave instead of 3 years.

I remember reading in sponsor policy guidelines that total stay in UK on Tier 2 visa should not exceed 6 years. I have already stayed in UK for 3 years and if my new leave application goes through, my ultimate stay would become 8 years. Would then UKBA not reject my application on that basis? Or total stay in UK with same employer should not be over 6 years?

Thanks
Suhas

[moonlight55]

Total stay on Tier 2 General (irrespective of the employer) is limited to 6 years.

[iworker]

If your employer issues u a cos of 5 years, you will HAVE TO apply for 5 years visa and pay 5 years fee. However, you will only be given 3 years visa.
My advise:
Talk to employer and explain him this condition and say that you will be eleigble for ILR after 2 years and would not have to pay more for the applicaiton fee.
also make sure u apply before your current leave expires and not after your current leave as you have stated.