Entry Clearance and Visa

[nayyerkamran]

Hello all,

I recently got HSMP and also got the entry clearance on March 8, 2006. But unfortunately I can not go to UK right now due to some family reasons. I have few concerns regarding my HSMP and my visa. I mention my concerns one by one below. I will be very thankful if some of you provide me some guidance.

What I got from Pakistan UK Embassy is entry clearance not the visa am I right?
I will get visa on UK airport.

If I am right then what would be the case if I arrive UK just before expiring date (7 march 2006) of my Entry clearance (I don’t think HSMP letter do expire. Does it?)?

If I reach UK just before my entry clearance expired, like three months before, then what do you think do I get extension easily or there is some sort of rule that you need to be in UK at least of 9 months to get the extension?

I will be very grateful for detailed answers.

Thanks,

[lynn132]

They will stamp the sticker in your passport when you enter, thus "validating" your visa. Your HSMP letter is valid to obtain entry clearance for a limited period and is should say in the letter how longthat is (usually three months). You can enter anytime during the period that your entry clearance is valid; however, getting an extension (i.e., FLR) will require that you show economic activity, which will be very difficult if you have not established a UK income at the time of application. Given the flurry of recent changes and upcoming changes to the immigration system, it is advisable that you get to the UK as soon as possible. There have been rumours that FLR for HSMP (what will be Tier 1 in the new system) will be more difficult in future. Until now, just showing that you have been looking for work has been sufficient, but next year that may not be the case.