tier 2 /new online visa application system

[Elaine_London]

I couldn't find it anywhere on UKBA website. Maybe someone has already heard about it. I have a question on new system of online applications introduced in mid Feb.
http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/sitec ... r25-online
How does it work in terms of leave expiry. E.g. if my leave expires on 10/04 and I apply online and pay before that date, e.g. on 03/04, then the 'date of application' will be 03/04 (and I will have to attend an appointment in PEO within 45 days or send the dox by post within 15 day). But they also say that the application becomes 'valid' when the dox are received or the person attends the appointment at PEO. I am confused between 'valid application' and 'application date' in connection with leave expiry.

The question is - can I still attend the appointment at PEO after my leave expires, as the online application will have been submitted before it expires or I will become an over-stayer if I do? I would ideally go to PEO, rather than send dox by post, but you can't seem to be able to book appointments now before you submit the visa application online and pay for it.

[manci]

The general info about the online system is here (which you found):

https://apply.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/ia ... formList#t

As to where to find the online application on the UKBA website, first you have to register to create an account:

https://apply.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/se ... 3dformList

I have not used this myself but they say that once you have registered you can log in and will be in the "Apply system" . You can then complete the application.

The following is only my opinion and suggest you phone the immigration enquiry bureau to confirm it or otherwise (0870 606 7766).

The date of application is what counts regarding the expiry of your leave. If you apply before your leave expires, i.e. submit your online application, then you will not become an over-stayer. However your application will only become "valid" once UKBA receive the docs. This is not dissimilar to a postal application which, although not expressed in these terms, also only becomes valid, i.e. UKBA can deal with it, once the docs arrive in the post.