Entering the UK prior to visa start date?

[sharkgirl]

Hello all,

Can I enter the country prior to my visa's validity date as a tourist?

My Tier 2 (General) visa is valid from 25/8/16 but I was hoping to arrive in the UK mid-August to find a flat, open a bank account, settle in, etc. before I start my new job in September (I'm moving from the US). If I entered the UK prior to my visa validity date, my plan would be to leave the UK for another country before 25/8/16 and return a day or two after my visa is valid. I would have an airline ticket proving and matching this itinerary should I be asked about this by an immigrations official.

Is it unadvisable to enter the country as a visitor close to my visa start date?

UK Visas and Immigration said technically it's allowed, but it's at the discretion of the immigration officer. Some people have advised caution against trying to enter the country early, especially telling immigration you're looking for a flat, but I personally need more than 2 weeks prior to starting work to accomplish all of the above.

I've received mixed responses so I'm not sure about this plan. I haven't been able to find a recent answer to these questions. Advice is greatly appreciated!

[vinny]

30C

An Immigration Officer may cancel an entry clearance which is capable of having effect as leave to enter if the holder arrives in the United Kingdom before the day on which the entry clearance becomes effective or if the holder seeks to enter the United Kingdom for a purpose other than the purpose specified in the entry clearance.