Tier 2 dependent visa extension, while main sponsor eligible for ILR

[Surajit9871]

Hi guys,

I will be applying for ILR soon (through Tier 2 General route). My wife is currently a Tier 2 dependent, will only complete the 5 year eligibility in Nov 2019. Her Tier 2 leave was first granted in Nov 2014 but since i switched job in 2016 so her visa expiry was extended to match mine i.e. December 2018, which is 11 months short of her qualification requirements.

I was hoping for some guidance on the below:

1. Do I have to apply for her Tier 2 visa extension alongside my ILR application or can it wait?

2. If both options are allowed, which one is better to avoid any possible negative impact on her ILR application in Nov 2019?

3. If I do apply for her Tier 2 extension with my ILR application, do i need to provide any additional documentation (other than what Tier 2 dependent application usually requires) ... i think not as its her Tier 2 application but am not sure as i, being her sponsor, changing visa categories so hence wanted to re-confirm?

Many thanks,
Surajit

[CR001]

1. No, she can wait but must apply for an extension before her current visa expires.

2. Not sure what your question is?? There is no 'impact' on her ILR if she applies before her current visa expires.

3. You need maintenance funds and the same documents and cohabitation evidence as usual.

[Surajit9871]

Thank you for the prompt response. I have provide some additional thoughts (in the same order):

1. that's a great news! So when we do apply for her ILR eventually in Nov 2019, i am assuming i wouldn't have to provide a letter from my employer as she has been a Tier 2 dependent and therefore a letter from employer isn't needed for Tier 2 dependent applying for ILR?

2. sorry for the confusion but i think your answer to 1. have clarified it i.e. timing of her Tier 2 extension doesn't have any implications for her ILR application.

3. thanks, that's what i had in the mind as well.

really appreciate your help!

[CR001]

1. No, she is dependent on YOU and not on your sponsor.

2. Correct, as long as she applies to extend before her current visa expires. She will get a 3 year exension.

[Surajit9871]

Thank you very much, very helpful indeed!