Class 2 Eyesight query

[grow45]

I currently hold a JAR Class 2 medical. The refractive error in my right eye is minus 7.75 dioptres. My understanding is that the limit for a Class 2 medical is minus 8. I am a forty year old male and wear gas permeable contact lenses to correct the vision at the moment.

As I understand it eyesight deteriorates with age and when that happens I will have to get an NPPL. I would like to do some overseas flying (which I cant do on an NPPL) before that happens and was wondering how long I might have to do this before the sight falls below Class 2 standard.

It is maybe a question for an optician rather than a medic but if anybody can provide a rough idea I woould be grateful.

Thanks

g45

[Mark 1]

I'm in a similar position relative to the Class1 limit.
The bit of JAR that covers this is in JAR 3.340 and appendix 13, which I've copied below. Appendix 3b gives you a possiblity.

(b) Class 2 . If the refractive error is within the range -5/-8 dioptres, the AMS may consider Class 2
(1)
(2)
(3)
3 (a) Monocularity entails unfitness for a Class 1 certificate. The AMS may consider recertification for
a Class 2 certificate if the underlying pathology is acceptable according to ophthalmic specialist
assessment and subject to a satisfactory flight test.
(b) Central vision in one eye below the limits stated in JAR-FCL 3.220 may be considered for Class
1 recertification if binocular visual fields are normal and the underlying pathology is acceptable
according to ophthalmic specialist assessment. A satisfactory flight test is required and operations limited
to multi-pilot (Class 1 ‘OML’) only.
In case of reduction of vision in one eye to below the limits stated in JAR-FCL 3.340 Class 2
recertification may be considered if underlying pathology and the visual ability of the remaining eye are
acceptable following ophthalmic evaluation acceptable to the AMS and subject to a satisfactory medical
flight test, if indicated.
certification if:
no significant pathology can be demonstrated;
the refraction has remained stable for at least 4 years after the age of 17 years;
optimal correction has been considered (contact lenses).
(c)