Call us on +44 20 3384 3075

English
Chinese
Russian

22 Oct Processing times for UK visa applications

Posted on October 22, 2021 in Other Visas by
0 Likes

The processing times are different depending on whether the migrant is submitting a visa application inside or outside the UK and on the type of visa application

If a migrant applies for a non-settlement visa outside the UK, it normally takes 3 weeks to receive a decision. For instance, if they submitted a student visa, skilled worker visa or sole representative visa outside the UK. However, if an individual submitted a settlement application outside the UK, for example, a spouse visa, fiancé visa etc, they should receive a decision within 12 weeks of the application date using the standard service.

For those who are applying for leave to remain in the UK including as spouses, workers, Tier 1 entrepreneurs, students etc, migrants should receive a decision within 8 weeks of the application date. Some types of visa applications, however, might offer a 5 working day priority service or next working day super priority service.

If a UK company wishes to sponsor a migrant, the company will need to apply for a sponsor licence. It normally takes 8 weeks to receive a decision. However, if an organisation wishes to update their sponsor licence details, it might take up to 18 weeks to receive a decision.

Migrants applying for ILR should receive a decision within 6 months from the date of the biometric using standard service or 24-48 hours using a super priority service.

The UKVI states if migrants’ applications are straightforward, they will make a decision within the standard processing time, and there is no need to ask them for progress on the applications. However, in order to make a decision within the service standards, the UKVI requests that:

  • Your application is made before your current visa expires;
  • Your application is completed accurately;
  • You include any required photographs;
  • You provide evidence of funds to maintain yourself if required on the application form and guidance;
  • You enrol your biometric information and respond to any requests for further information by the dates the UKVI ask you;
  • When you attend your appointment at a visa centre, you submit the required documents with your application:
  • If your application is made on a paper form:
  • it is signed and dated and made on the correct form, submitting the required documents;
  • you have included the payment and any cheque is signed and dated for the full fee.

Please note if an individual hasn’t received a decision within the standard processing time, the Home Office will send a letter explaining why it will not be decided within the normal standard processing times.

Contact Our Immigration Team

For expert advice regarding any aspect of the UK visa application, please contact our immigration team on 0203 384 3075.

The content of this article is for general use and information only. Since each case should be prepared on its own merit and in light of the constant amendments to the Immigration Rules, it is important to note that the information provided must not be relied upon unless Migra & Co has either given written consent or has been officially engaged in relation to a specific immigration matter. As a result, Migra & Co will take no responsibility for any damage, cost or loss resulting from relying on the information contained in this article, blog and website.