Work Permit to Tier 2_queries

[Sam69]

Hi,

I have multiple queries, hope moderators wont mind as I am mixing some of my queiries together rather than posting it in different threads.


Background.
I am presently on work permit (2008-2009 system). Got work permit for present employer for 5 yeras so my visa is valid up to Jan 2014. Recently got a new offer on higher salary range so decided to shift but I am being told I need to go through Tier 2 (general) grind.

My queries.

1. As my visa is valid till Jan 2014 what is the best time to apply for new visa, as I still need to work for my employer and need to finish my notice period with them. New employer wanted me to start with them ASAP after finishing notice but cant start with them unless I get visa to work for them and cant even apply through post as it is said in 'rule/policy book' that you can apply for visa only when your older visa is about expire and if I apply and get visa for new emploer I then cannot work for old employer(my notice period is 3months, strange isnt it?), due to this I now managed to book a premium service , is my decision right??

2.My employer is 'A' rated and confirmed maintainance on CoS do I still need to show £850 balance for 3 months? also do I need to maintain balance for my dependants (wife+kid) in this case? is dependant balance need to show for 3 months aswell? Also old attribute as work permit holder can this be considered as substitute for showing Maintainance?

3. Start date in CoS is different than what is mentioned in the contract will that make a huge difference? and will that be potential invitation for refusal?

4.In Tier 2 main application form page23 QH1 and QH2 asks for home office reference number, shall I put my work permit reference number in? as this will help them to trace out my old(succesful) application.

5. As I am former work permit holder do I still need to show my english proficiancy, application form doesnt imply that? am right considering that?

6. In my wifes case her bank account is according to her after marriage surname but passport surname is still maiden surname will that be a problem in establishing identity, shall I fill details in question B9, page 11 in PBS dependant application form?

7.In premium visa cases how much time it will take to arrive biometric card ?


Apologies for making it long but hope sombody will pick it, hopefuly moderators.

Thanks in Advance.

sameer