HSMP --> Tier 1 General extension... can I apply earlier than 30 days?

Ummm. My HSMP EC is valid until 16-Oct-09. All this time my gf (UK citizen) and I were planning a wedding for Dec '09 - Jan '10, which was fine 'caus I'd've already extended my EC under Tier 1 General for another three yrs by then.

Out of the blue yesterday my parents suggested (don't ask) that we should consider getting married on the most auspicious day of the Hindu calendar next yr (28-Sep-09) and my gf loved that idea incredibly (again, don't ask)

I'm trying to find out if that's even realistic considering my HSMP renewal timelines. I read on UKBA's website that they "encourage you to apply one month before your leave runs out." Does anyone know how anal the Home Office is in implementing this "encouragement"..? Do they entertain circumstantial exceptions..?

Assuming the 30-day-encouragement is adhered to strictly, I can't send in my application until 16-Sep-09, in which case is it true to expect to have my passport back in my hands w/the new EC sticker before my HSMP expiry date (16-Oct-09)? 

We'll be getting married in the UK but our plans would involve flying out to India soon thereafter, hence the current dilemma. It seems to be the most ideal plan and I really want to make it happen if I realistally can 

Any inputs would be appreciated. Thanks for reading.

They are pretty strict about it I'm afraid.  But will you be switchign to spouse of UK national after the wedding or do you want to stick on HSMP?Tier 1 route?


Vicky

Well.. I was thinking of sticking to Tier 1 General, unless there're any requirements/benefits for me to switch to Spousal visa (other than me being eligible for ILR an yr earlier). Either way, I think the risk involved is a bit much for my taste based on what you've said Vicky..

Off to disappoint a few ppl 

Should I not be expecting my passport w/me by 16-Oct-09 then...?

Have you lived together for the two years?

Vicky

Erm... what two yrs.. HSMP 2 yrs..? No..

Okay, just working out if there was the chance of a UP visa now.

I think that, if you want to get married on the suggested date (and therefore please your Mum no end!), save a few quid AND get residency quicker, then the way to go is apply for the spousal visa in person as soon as you are married.  There is really no risk in this application, it is one of the most straight forward.


Vicky

Wow, that's a solution w/0% risk. Hmmmm. All this time my research was focused on HSMP/Tier 1 General categories... I'm gonna read up on spousal visa stuff now..... 

Although if I do end up going this route its gonna seem like I married a UK citizen just to get residency (marrying just before HSMP expires).... when the reality couldn't be more farther away!    Is this something that could count against me...?

Not at all.  HSMP applicants are all skilled and loved, so there will be little / no suspicion, especially if you chuck in some evidence of relationship.

If you need a document check, you know who to ask...



Vicky

THANKS A BUNCH VICKY.... this seems doable now. Gf and parents will be happy to know this isn't a showstopper. All thanks to you  And yeap, you're' my sole point of contact for anything immigration related... not just for document check/s