UK Visa Processing Time After Biometrics: A Guide

The length of time it takes for your application to be processed can be an important factor in deciding when to apply and when to make travel arrangements. But UK visa processing times vary considerably, depending on factors such as the type of visa being applied for, the country or Embassy where the application is made and the applicant’s own individual circumstances and eligibility.

Visa applicants are advised to take guidance on the current processing timescales for their specific type of application.

 

Section A: UK Visa Processing Times

 

UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) is the Home Office department responsible for the UK’s visa system.

The processing date is typically counted from when the applicant has attended their visa appointment and submitted their biometric information, or as soon as ID checks have been completed and the application is submitted using UKVI’s visa processing app.Processing times for in-country applications are as follows (correct as at the date of publishing):

 

In-country visa application processing times

 

Visa Category	Processing Time
Visit Visa
Standard Visitor	8 weeks
Study Visas
Student	8 weeks
Child Student	8 weeks
Family Visas
Partner or spouse (meeting minimum income and English language requirements)	8 weeks
Partner or spouse – private life (minimum income and English language not required)	12 months*
Parent	12 months*
Child	8 weeks
Adult coming to be cared for by a relative	8 weeks
Ukraine Visas
Homes for Ukraine	As quickly as possible
Popular Work Visas
Skilled Worker	8 weeks
Health and Care Worker	3 weeks
Temporary Work Visas
Government Authorised Exchange	8 weeks
Charity Worker	8 weeks
Creative Worker	8 weeks
International Agreement	8 weeks
Religious Worker	8 weeks
Work Visas You Can Apply for Without a Job Offer
Global Talent	8 weeks
Graduate	8 weeks
Overseas Domestic Worker	8 weeks
High Potential Individual (HPI)	8 weeks
UK Ancestry	8 weeks
Work Visas to Start a Business
Innovator Founder	8 weeks
Start-up	3 weeks
Work Visas for an Overseas Employer
Overseas Domestic Worker	8 weeks
Secondment Worker	8 weeks
Senior or Specialist Worker	8 weeks
Representative of an Overseas Business	8 weeks
Service Supplier	8 weeks
UK Expansion Worker	8 weeks
Other Visas and Permits
British National (Overseas)	12 weeks
Entrepreneur	8 weeks
International Sportsperson	8 weeks
Investor	8 weeks
Minister of Religion	8 weeks
Scale-up Worker	8 weeks
Turkish Businessperson	6 months
Turkish Worker	6 months

 

Applications made outside the UK: processing times

 

Visa Category	Processing Time
Visit Visas
Standard Visitor	3 weeks
Marriage Visitor	3 weeks
Chinese Tour Group	3 weeks
Transit	3 weeks
Study Visas
Student	3 weeks
Child Student	3 weeks
Study English in the UK: Short-term student (6 to 11 months)	3 weeks
Family Visas
Partner or Spouse	12 weeks
Parent	12 weeks
Child	12 weeks
Adult coming to be cared for by a relative	12 weeks
Ukraine Visas
Homes for Ukraine	3 weeks
Popular Work Visas
Skilled Worker	3 weeks
Health and Care Worker	3 weeks
Temporary Work Visas
Government Authorised Exchange	3 weeks
Charity Worker	3 weeks
Creative Worker	3 weeks
International Agreement	3 weeks
Seasonal Worker	3 weeks
Religious Worker	3 weeks
Work Visas You Can Apply for Without a Job Offer
Global Talent	3 weeks
Youth Mobility Scheme	3 weeks
India Young Professionals Scheme	3 weeks
UK Ancestry	3 weeks
High Potential Individual (HPI)	3 weeks
Work Visas to Start a Business
Innovator Founder	3 weeks
Start-up	3 weeks
Work Visas for an Overseas Employer
Overseas Domestic Worker	3 weeks
Graduate Trainee	3 weeks
Secondment Worker	3 weeks
Senior or Specialist Worker	3 weeks
Representative of an Overseas Business	3 weeks
Service Supplier	3 weeks
UK Expansion Worker	3 weeks
Other Visas and Permits
British National (Overseas)	12 weeks
International Sportsperson	3 weeks
Minister of Religion	3 weeks
Scale-up Worker	3 weeks

 

 

 

Section B: UK Visa Processing Time after Biometrics

 

The processing time for a UK visa application officially begins once an applicant has submitted their biometric information. This is done in one of two ways: either using the Immigration ID Check app, or by attending an in-person appointment. You will be told when you apply which option you should use.

The biometrics in-person appointment involves providing fingerprints and a digital photograph, which are essential for identity verification. Once biometrics are submitted, UKVI will begin assessing the application. The length of time it takes to receive a decision depends on the type of visa applied for, whether the application was made from inside or outside the UK, and whether an expedited service has been selected.

Standard processing times vary based on the category of visa. For most applications made from outside the UK, such as visit, study, or work visas, a decision is usually made within three weeks. Family visa applications, including those for partners or spouses, generally take longer, with a standard processing time of up to twelve weeks. Applications submitted from within the UK, such as visa extensions or settlement requests, are typically processed within eight weeks.

UKVI also offers priority and super priority services for certain types of applications. Those opting for the priority service can expect a decision within five working days, while the super priority service aims to provide a decision by the end of the next working day. These expedited services come at an additional cost and may not be available for all visa types or locations.

Processing times may be affected by the volume of applications being handled by UKVI, the complexity of individual cases, or if further information is requested. Applicants should ensure that all required documents are submitted correctly to avoid unnecessary delays. If an application is likely to take longer than expected, UKVI will usually provide an update outlining the reason for the delay and the next steps. Applying well in advance of any planned travel or employment start date is advisable to allow sufficient time for a decision.

 

Section C: Priority & Fast-Track Services

 

Priority service and super priority services for applications being made from outside the UK are available for work, business and family visa routes.

Where available, priority processing allows applicants for certain work and settlement routes such as the Skilled Worker visa to pay an additional fee for fast-tracked processing. Priority processing provides a decision within 5 working days, while super-priority is for a decision by the end of the next working day

Priority processing is only available to certain applicants, notably those proving their identity by attending an appointment at a UKVCAS centre or those using the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app. If available to you, you will be notified when making your application and given the option to purchase faster processing.

The fees for priority and super-priority processing are as follows:

 

Application type	Fee
Priority settlement visa service – out of country	£500
Priority non-settlement visa service – out of country	£500
Super priority visa service – out of country	£1000
Super priority service – in-country	£1000
Expedited processing – Priority service – in-country	£500

 

 

 

Priority processing times for Certificate of Sponsorship requests & Changes of Circumstances

 

Priority processing remains available to A’ rated sponsors for fast-tracked CoS allocation and other Change of Circumstances requests, for an additional fee of £200 per application. The priority requests are generally processed within 5 working days.

 

Section D: Difference between UKVCAS and Home Office Processing

 

One factor that may affect the UK visa processing time is whether the application has to be made through UKVCAS.

UKVCAS (UK Visa and Citizenship Application Service) was introduced in November 2018 to handle certain UK visa, settlement and citizenship applications made be applicants already in the UK.

You will be advised when making your application if you must go through UKVCAS in order for your application to be processed.

 

Section E: Factors Affecting UK Visa Processing Times

 

There are other factors that may affect the processing time of your UK visa application. These include:

 

1. Caseload

 

Summer is generally the busiest time for UKVI, and other factors such as Home Office priorities may impact processing.

 

2. Location

 

The country that you apply for your UK visa from may affect the processing time for several reasons, including the relationship and arrangements between the UK and your country, the administrative systems within each country, current conditions within either country, endorsing documents from your country or finding their equivalent in the UK, whether that country is part of the EEA and so on.

It is always advised to check with the UK embassy or consulate in your country for any such issues that could lead to visa processing delays.

 

3. Insufficient or incorrect information

 

If your application includes incorrect information or the documentation you supply is insufficient, the processing time may be longer than expected if UKVI suspend processing to request further information from you in order to make a decision.

The best way to avoid this is to check your application thoroughly and ensure that you have all the necessary documentation to hand before you apply.

 

Section F: Different Types of UK Visa Applications

 

The type of UK visa that you apply for will be the main deciding factor in how long it takes to process your UK visa application. The UK visa that you choose will depend on your reason for visiting the UK and how long you wish to stay.

 

1. Work in the UK

 

There are many types of short-term and long-term work visas including:

 

• Skilled worker visa
• Temporary worker visas
• Global Business Mobility visas
• Domestic workers in a private household visas
• Sportsperson visa
• Graduate route
• High Potential Individual visa
• Global Talent visa
• Scale up visa
• Innovator Founder visa

 

Each type of visa will carry its own eligibility, conditions and application requirements.

The Skilled Worker visa, for instance, is open to non-UK residents with a job offer from a licensed sponsor for skilled employment in the UK.

The processing time for the Skilled Worker visa is generally no longer than 3 weeks once the applicant has attended their appointment.

 

2. Holiday, family visit or business trip

 

The Standard Visitor visa is generally suitable for tourism, holidays, visiting and to receive short-term medical treatment. It replaces:

 

• Business visitor and prospective entrepreneur visas
• Family visitor visa
• Child visitor visa
• Sports and entertainer visitor visas
• Private medical treatment visitor visa
• Approved destination status visa
• General visitor visa

 

Under the standard visitor visa, you can usually stay in the UK for up to 6 months.

Your application for a Standard Visitor visa should be made no earlier than 3 months before you intend to enter the UK, and it will generally take no more than 3 weeks for the visa application to be processed and a decision made after your appointment.

Under current processing times, visitor visa applications from outside the UK are taking six weeks instead of the usual three.

 

3. Studying in the UK

 

Should you wish to study in the UK, there are 3 visas available for this purpose, depending on your individual situation:

 

• A short-term study visa is suitable for a 6 month stay in the UK to attend a course. For students over 16 who wish to attend an English language course, it may be possible to use a Short-term study visa for a stay of up to 11 months.
• A general study visa is suitable for a longer course of study in the UK as long as the student has a confirmed place on a course and is sponsored by a licensed university or college.
• 4 to 17 years old wishing to study at an independent school should apply for a child student visa.

 

Apply for the appropriate student visa no earlier than 3 months before you intend to enter the UK. Once you have attended your appointment, it will generally take no more than 3 weeks to receive a decision.

 

4. Entrepreneurs & investors

 

The primary route for people coming to the UK to set up or run a business is the Innovator Founder visa. While no up-front investment is required under this route, there are many eligibility criteria that will need to be satisfied by both the applicant and the business. Endorsement will also be required before the visa application can be made.

As an alternative, you may also consider sponsoring yourself through your own UK business under the Skilled Worker visa.

Processing for business-related visas typically take longer than other categories due to the complexity of the application documentation and evidence. Again, the earliest you can apply is 3 months before you travel.

 

5. Joining family in the UK

 

The Family visa will generally allow you to join certain family members who already live in the UK if you wish to remain in the country for more than 6 months, such as spouses. You may also consider a dependant visa.

If the visa application is made from outside the UK, the processing time will generally take up to 24 weeks.

 

6. Getting married in the UK

 

If you intend to visit the UK to get married, you should generally apply for a Marriage Visitor visa. This visa is also suitable for civil partnership ceremonies in the UK.

This visa doesn’t allow you to remain or settle in the UK after the marriage or civil partnership ceremony.

Processing, once an appointment has been attended, should ordinarily take no more than 3 weeks.

 

7. Travelling through the UK

 

There are two types of Transit visa. If you will be passing through UK border control and staying in the UK no more than 48 hours, then you should apply for a Visitor in Transit visa. If you will not pass through UK border control, then you should apply for a Direct Airside Transit visa.

If you will be staying in the UK for longer than 48 hours, it will be necessary to apply for a Standard Visitor visa.

 

Section G: Need assistance?

 

At DavidsonMorris we have the experience to advise you on the most appropriate UK visa for your circumstances and have the insight to make the process as smooth as possible.

As a team of immigration lawyers and former Home Office employees, we have an established reputation for effective and efficient management and processing of visa applications, and for providing expert visa-related advice to suit your needs. Contact us for advice.

 

Section H: UK visa processing time FAQs

 

How long does it take to process a standard UK visitor visa?

The processing time for a standard UK visitor visa is generally around three weeks from the date of your biometric appointment. However, this can vary depending on the country from which you are applying and the current volume of applications.

 

What are the processing times for other types of UK visas?

Processing times for UK visas vary by type. For example, work visas and study visas typically take between three to eight weeks. Settlement visas, such as those for spouses or family reunions, can take up to twelve weeks. For the most accurate information, it is advisable to check the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website for current processing times based on your visa category.

 

Can I expedite my UK visa application processing time?

UKVI offers priority and super priority visa services for certain visa applications for an additional fee. The priority service aims to process your application within five working days, while the super priority service aims to make a decision by the end of the next working day. These services are subject to availability and eligibility criteria.

 

What factors can affect the processing time of my UK visa application?

Several factors can affect the processing time of your UK visa application, including the type of visa, the completeness of your application, the accuracy of the information provided, the time of year (with peak times such as holiday seasons potentially causing delays), and whether additional documentation or verification is required by the UKVI.

 

How can I check the current processing times for my specific visa type?

You can check the current processing times for your specific visa type on the UKVI website. They provide up-to-date information on processing times based on the type of visa and the country from which you are applying. This information is regularly updated to reflect any changes in processing times.

 

What should I do if my UK visa application is taking longer than the standard processing time?

If your UK visa application is taking longer than the standard processing time, you can contact the UKVI for an update. You will need your application reference number and personal details to inquire about the status of your application. Additionally, you can check if there have been any announcements or updates on the UKVI website regarding delays.

 

Does the processing time include the time taken for the biometric appointment?

The processing time for a UK visa application typically starts from the date of your biometric appointment, not from the date you submit your application. Ensure you account for the time needed to schedule and attend your biometric appointment when planning your application timeline.

 

Are there different processing times for in-country and out-of-country applications?

Yes, there can be differences in processing times for in-country and out-of-country applications. In-country applications, such as extensions or switches to different visa categories, may have different processing times compared to applications made from outside the UK. Check the UKVI website for specific details related to your situation.

 

What happens if my visa application is not processed within the expected time frame?

If your visa application is not processed within the expected time frame, you may contact the UKVI for an update. In some cases, delays may occur due to the need for additional documentation or verification. The UKVI should provide you with information on any outstanding requirements or issues causing the delay.

 

Section I: Glossary

 

Term	Definition
UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI)	A division of the Home Office responsible for processing visa, settlement, asylum, and citizenship applications.
Biometric Appointment	A session where applicants provide fingerprints and a digital photograph as part of their visa application process.
Processing Time	The period between the completion of a visa application, including biometrics, and the decision issued by UKVI.
Standard Processing Time	The typical timeframe in which UKVI aims to process visa applications under normal circumstances.
Priority Service	An expedited visa processing service that aims to deliver a decision within five working days for an additional fee.
Super Priority Service	A premium service that aims to provide a visa decision by the end of the next working day for an additional charge.
Visa Decision	The outcome of a visa application, which can either be approved, refused, or require additional information.
Settlement Visa	A visa category for those applying for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) in the UK, often based on family or long-term residence.
Further Leave to Remain (FLR)	An application to extend an existing visa while remaining in the UK.
Sponsor Licence	Permission granted by UKVI to UK employers and educational institutions to sponsor foreign workers and students.
Application Refusal	A decision by UKVI to reject a visa application, usually accompanied by an explanation and options for appeal or reapplication.
Administrative Review	A process that allows applicants to request a review of their visa refusal if they believe an error was made.
Immigration Status	The legal status granted by UKVI that determines an individual’s rights to live, work, or study in the UK.
Visa Extension	An application to extend an existing visa before it expires to continue staying in the UK lawfully.
Supporting Documents	The documents submitted alongside a visa application to provide evidence of eligibility, such as financial statements, proof of employment, or sponsorship details.
Right to Work Check	A legal requirement for UK employers to verify a prospective employee’s immigration status before hiring them.
Right to Rent Check	A legal requirement for landlords to confirm a tenant’s immigration status before renting out a property.