Tier 4 dependant to Tier 2 General Visa

[Curious1970]

Hi,

I need your valuable suggestion and advice

I'm in UK on Tier 2 ICT Long Term visa with my wife on dependant visa. We have to leave UK by 2019 August as I will be completing 5 years on ICT. But She wants to do masters degree here in UK. I know she can switch from Tier 2 dependant to Tier 4 Student Visa.

1. Can I switch my visa from Tier 2 to Tier 4 Dependant visa within UK ?
2. If yes, Do I need to serve any cooling off period before applying for Tier 2 general visa If I get sponsorship as Tier 4 dependant?

[CR001]

1. Yes

2. You need to hold dependent visa for 12 months before you can apply for tier 2 General. This would be the cooling off period.

[Curious1970]

Thank you for your fast response.
I have been here in Uk for around 6 year as ICT tier 2 Main applicant when my current Visa expires and it will be 7 years if I live here as Tier 4 dependant while I apply for Tier 2 General Visa.

So I am wondering Is there any possibility for me to apply ILR through 10 year long residency? (After completing 5 years of general Visa)

[CR001]

You can apply for ILR based on long residence if you meet the requirements.

[Curious1970]

okay.. thank you