Uk sponsored visa moving to different job?

Question

Hi,

I have been working in UK on an emplyeer sponsored 5 year visa. I have since resigned from my job, and have been offered a new role contracting. I applied for my Tier 1 visa several weeks prior to finishing my work but it's not arrive yet.

My question is can I work whilst waiting for the new Tier 1 visa. The response I've had back from the immigration is confusing. It is below.

Thanks,

Gary

--- immigration deparement response----

In certain circumstances it may be possible for someone to continue to work after their visa has expired, the conditions that allow this are outlined below.

--- immigration information

The person held limited leave to enter or remain in the United Kingdom and applied to vary their leave to remain prior to the leave expiring. Providing their application is still under consideration.

During any such period of extended leave the person would hold the same right to work as they held prior to submitting the application.

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Answer 1

I interpret this answer as meaning yes you can work until they make a decision - could you not apply for residency and ILR? The info on the web site says-

After you have lived legally in the United Kingdom for a certain length of time (usually between two and five years), you may be able to apply to live here permanently, depending on the category of visa you have. You should see the appropriate category for more information on whether you can apply for permanent residence and the qualifying period for it. See Application types for details of categories that may qualify.

Answer 2

I would check this out with an immigration specialist - you really don't want to risk losing your right to work in the UK and being deported . . .