When it comes to applying for a UK visa, one of the key concerns for applicants is the processing time. Knowing how long it will take to receive a decision on your visa application can help you plan your travel and stay in the UK accordingly.
Processing Times for UK Visa Applications
The processing times for UK visa applications can vary depending on several factors, including the type of visa, the location of application (overseas or in-country), and the utilisation of priority services provided by the Home Office. While UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) has established standard processing times as a general guideline, it is important to note that these times can be subject to change due to factors such as application volume and complexity.
Processing Times for Applications Made Outside the UK
If you are applying for a UK visa from overseas, it is advisable not to make any travel arrangements until a decision has been made on your application. Here are the current standard processing times for different visa categories:
- Work Visas
- Skilled Worker: 3 weeks
- Health and Care Worker: 3 weeks
- Global Business Mobility visas (all categories): 3 weeks
- Temporary Work visas (all categories): 3 weeks
- Innovator Founder: 3 weeks
- Global Talent: 3 weeks
- High Potential Individual (HPI): 3 weeks
- Scale-up Worker: 3 weeks
- Visit Visas: 3 weeks
- Study Visas: 3 weeks
- Family Visas: 24 weeks
- British National (Overseas) Visas: 12 weeks
- Homes for Ukraine & Ukraine Family Scheme Visas: As quickly as possible
Processing Times for Applications Made Inside the UK
If you are applying to extend your visa or switch to another visa category from within the UK, the processing times are generally longer compared to overseas applications. You can stay in the UK until a decision is made on your application as long as you applied before your last visa expired. Here are the current waiting times for in-country applications per category:
- Work Visas
- Skilled Worker: 8 weeks
- Health and Care Worker: 8 weeks
- Global Business Mobility visas: 8 weeks
- Temporary Work visas (selected categories): 8 weeks
- Innovator Founder: 8 weeks
- Global Talent: 8 weeks
- High Potential Individual (HPI): 8 weeks
- Scale-up Worker: 8 weeks
- Study Visas: 8 weeks
- Graduate Visas: 8 weeks
- Family Visas: 8 weeks
- Standard Visitor Visas: 8 weeks
- British National (Overseas) Visas: 12 weeks
- Homes for Ukraine & Ukraine Family Scheme and Ukraine Extension Scheme Visas: As quickly as possible
Expediting the Decision-Making Process
If you have an urgent application, the Home Office provides priority services that can expedite the decision-making process. These services come at an additional cost, and you may be eligible for faster decisions as follows:
- Priority service: Within 5 working days
- Super Priority service: By the end of the next working day
The availability of these services and eligibility criteria will be determined during your visa application process.
Staying Updated on Your Application
In certain cases, your application may not be decided within the standard processing times mentioned earlier. If additional evidence or an interview is required, the Home Office will contact you accordingly. To receive updates on your submitted visa application, it is recommended to contact UKVI directly. However, if your application is still within the current processing times, refrain from contacting UKVI for tracking purposes.
Understanding the processing times for UK visa applications is crucial for efficient travel planning and ensuring a smooth transition to the UK. By being aware of the standard processing times for various visa categories, both for applications made outside the UK and in-country, you can make informed decisions regarding your visa application. Additionally, if you require a faster decision, the Home Office’s priority services can help expedite the process. Remember to stay updated on your application by contacting UKVI when necessary. Good luck with your UK visa application journey!