Lost job (& Tier 2 Visa) - Can I switch to my girlfriend's Tier 2 as dependant?

[djm198]

Hi,

I am in the process of losing my job and I am on a Tier 2 visa. My partner is also on a Tier 2 visa and I was wondering if it is possible for me to switch from my Tier 2 to be on her Tier 2. We have been together for 7 years, and lived together for 5 1/2. We have been in the UK for 2 1/2 years on Tier 5 and Tier 2 more recently.

[CR001]

I was wondering if it is possible for me to switch from my Tier 2 to be on her Tier 2.

Yes, you can switch within the UK. This will reset your clock for ILR based on 5 years residence to zero.

We have been together for 7 years, and lived together for 5 1/2. We have been in the UK for 2 1/2 years on Tier 5 and Tier 2 more recently.

Assuming you are unmarried partners, you will need rock solid evidence of two years cohabitation and subsisting relationship 'akin to marriage' plus the usual maintenance funds held for 90 days etc.

[djm198]

Hi,

I lost my job very recently and I was (am) on a Tier 2 Visa. I moved here with my girlfriend over 2 years ago from New Zealand and we lived together for at least 4 years before we moved here.

- Am I able to switch from my Tier 2 (I have not received a curtailment letter yet) to a dependant on her Tier 2 visa;
- Can I start my application now or must I need to wait for curtailment letter;
- What do I need to provide;
- How long does it take;
- How much does it cost (Health surcharge costs 1000 GBP even though I have already paid for next 3 years on current T2);
- Has anyone else been through this? Is there anything I really need to be aware of?

Thanks in advance

[CR001]

Not sure why you started a new topic (now merged with your previous one), some of your questions already answered.

- Am I able to switch from my Tier 2 (I have not received a curtailment letter yet) to a dependant on her Tier 2 visa;

Yes.

- Can I start my application now or must I need to wait for curtailment letter;

You can start now.

- What do I need to provide;

Read the guidance notes.

- How long does it take;

Depends if you apply by post (8 weeks, sometimes longer) or in person for a same day decision (costs £590 more).

- How much does it cost (Health surcharge costs 1000 GBP even though I have already paid for next 3 years on current T2);

You have to pay IHS with each application you make. How much IHS you pay depends on the length of your partners visa. Visa fee is £677 by post or £1,267 in person.

- Has anyone else been through this? Is there anything I really need to be aware of?

Many. Search the forum. The main thing you have to prove is the 2 years 'living in a relationship akin to marriage'

[djm198]

Thanks for the reply, I couldn't find the first post I made. Much appreciated.

[djm198]

Just as an FYI here are the cost options for the visa (dependent Tier 2 - greater than 3 years):

Standard service : pay 1354.00 GBP in total, most people get a decision within 8 weeks

Priority service : pay 1813.00 GBP in total, most people get a decision within 10 working days
Enter your priority service reference number
You must have a priority service reference number to use the priority service. To request one, fill in the request form. The reference number will then be emailed to you.


Premium Service : pay 1944.00 GBP in total, most people get a decision on the same day

Super Premium or Mobile Premium Service : pay an initial 1944.00 GBP. Most people get a decision within 24 hours. You will have to pay an additional £10,500 for your visit once you have completed your application and we receive your supporting documents.

[CR001]

I do know what the fees are

I quoted the 'up to 3 years' as your post doesn't state the visa duration of your partner.

[djm198]

Thank you for all your advice, you were very helpful.

[CR001]

You're welcome. Feel free to ask any further questions if you have any.