Switch from Tier 2 ICT to Tier 2 Dependent

[vkpardava]

Hi All,

I am on Tier 2 ICT long term visa and I am about to complete 2 years and got extension for 3 more years approved but still my tenure of first 2 years is not completed one month is still remaining.

My wife got Tier 2 General Visa and I am thinking to switch to Tier 2 General Dependent visa.

I have below questions:
1. will my current visa be invalidated which is ICT
2. Do I need wait for 1 year cooling off period if wanted to be dependent of my wife?
3. Can I have both the visa active at same time ICT and Tier 2 General dependent?
4. Shall I wait for my extension tenure to start and then apply for dependent?
5. Shall I immediately go for dependent before my extension period starts?

Any pointers or help is greatly appropriated.

Regards,
Vishal

[CR001]

1. will my current visa be invalidated which is ICT

Yes, if you are granted Tier 2 G dependent visa, your ICT visa will be cancelled.

2. Do I need wait for 1 year cooling off period if wanted to be dependent of my wife?

No

3. Can I have both the visa active at same time ICT and Tier 2 General dependent?

No, you cannot hold two visas at the same time.

4. Shall I wait for my extension tenure to start and then apply for dependent?

You can apply anytime for a dependent visa. It has nothing to do with your current visa. You must however have valid leave/visa to apply for dependent visa in the UK.

5. Shall I immediately go for dependent before my extension period starts?

Your choice. If you extend and get that and then apply for dependent visa, you will pay visas fees twice. For Tier 2 G dependent, you also have to pay the immigration health surcharge.

[vkpardava]

Thanks you CR001.

[vkpardava]

If I dont switch to Tier 2 General Dependent now then can I do it after my max allowed tenure of 5 years on ICT Tier 2?

or

is it possible to change to Tier 2 General dependent after completing full tenure of 5 years on Tier 2 ICT?

What is the best time to switch to Tier 2 General dependent

any pointer or help is much appreciated

[CR001]

It is your choice. You can switch at any time that you feel is appropriate. There is no 'right or wrong' answer or time to apply.

[vkpardava]

so it that correct : I wont be forced to move back to my home country after 5 years if I apply after 5 years of ICT?

[CR001]

No, but you must apply to switch to dependent visa before your ICT visa expires.