work permit (4.5 years), what to do now?

Hi,

A question regarding my situation, will appreciate an expert advise.

* I entered as a student in Feb 2006
* After finishing my studies started to work from Dec 2006
* Got my 5 year work permit on Jan 2007 and am still working on the same place/position

So, around 4.5 years on work permit.

The company I work in is being restructured at the moment and I don't know what will happen to my post.

If the worst comes to worst and I get redundant, do you think there are any other options apart from finding another Tier 2 sponsor?

For example, are there any chances for an ILR to be granted if I am several months short of the 5 year period?

Or, can I somehow switch to Tier 1 with the old rules, or is it completely closed now for old work permit holders?

Any other options?

Many thanks

stewie wrote:For example, are there any chances for an ILR to be granted if I am several months short of the 5 year period?

No.

stewie wrote:Or, can I somehow switch to Tier 1 with the old rules, or is it completely closed now for old work permit holders?

Tier 1 (General) category is closed for (all) new applicants.