Extension in HSMP Visa not completing 4 years in UK?

Question

Hi

I came to UK with wife on HSMP Visa in Aug 2005. I worked in London for a bank on a senior position for 10 months and got extension up to July 2010. I had to come back to my country in July 2006 due to serious sickness of my mother. Since she was required to undergo extensive treatment for a year or so, I decided to resign from my UK job and joined an organization in home country in end 2006. Now my mother's health is better and I am thinking of going back to UK. I have HSMP visa valid until July 2010. If I go back to UK in March 2009, I would be left with some 15 months visa validity. I have following concerns/ questions to be addressed before making a move:

1. Is there any likelihood of refusal to enter at Heathrow as I stayed out of UK for some two years as I understand I was not supposed to live out UK for more than 6 weeks?

2. The UK government would expect me to have completed 4 years of extension period in UK but unfortunately I had to leave UK only few weeks after extension. Would I be asked to leave UK in July 2010 on expiry of current HSMP visa or be granted extension?

3. In case of extension allowed, would I be required to stay for 4 years in UK or lesser?

4. Also my visa extension would be treated under new rules or I have to give proof of economic activity only?

Thanks for your time and support

Alley

Answer 1

This is a complicated situation. Lots of changes have taken place since you left. Speak to the Home Office if you can, but their answer may not be to your satisfaction.

Speak to an immigration lawyer based in the UK. It will cost you but may be well worth it.