UK visa processing times continue to be affected by the ongoing challenges of the pandemic. Ordinarily, 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 your travel arrangements.

Even under ‘normal’ circumstances, 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 applications inside the UK

According to the generic Immigration guidance, processing times for most visas are within 8 weeks, with faster processing times for Start-up and Health and Care visas (three weeks) and those who choose to pay for the priority service (five working days if you pay £500; next working day for £800). However, the priority service is currently suspended due to the COVID-19.

The UK visa processing time continues to be affected by the COVID-19 and visa applications in the UK are delayed from the first eight weeks announced.

In response to the pandemic and resulting service disruptions, UKVI has advised that they intend to reuse biometric information provided in previous applications as part of the process to verify an applicant’s identity. This facility, where applicable, is expected to speed up the process.

However, most visa applications are submitted online, accessed and booked through UKVCAS and registered with biometric information. Some UKVCAS Centres are closed or reopened in accordance with the COVID guidelines in the area where they are located, so you should check whether the area is open or not when you make an online booking.

Over the past year, many applicants have been waiting months for a simple application due to a lack of booking slots at the UKVCAS Visa Application Centre. Some people may have to buy slots by paying extra money to the application fee to book an appointment.

When you complete to register your biometric information, you also need to wait for UKVI's decision process. There are longer processing times for settlement applications (takes up to six months), and very simple applications, such as applying for the replacement of your BRP, may also take a long time to process.

If your visa has not expired when you make an extension application or switching your visa inside the UK, you may keep your stay under the previous visa condition during this process.

Visa applications outside the UK

The Home Office confirmed in January 2021 that although UKVCAS appointment levels are now above March 2020 levels, prior to COVID-19 disruption, high demand for all appointments and the requirement to maintain COVID-secure facilities are restricting the “ability to quickly expand capacity further at this time. However, we are continuing to increase capacity and will do over the coming months.”

Visa Application Centres have been reopening in line with local restrictions and guidelines. Those centres that remain closed are subject to ongoing review for reopening. Applicants are advised to check the status of their country’s VACs on the VFS website.

Priority and super priority visa services are now also available in some locations.

Where VACs are open, applicants attending interviews will be asked to observe local public health rules, such as social distancing, undergoing temperature checks or wearing face masks. Those with any COVID-19 symptoms on the day of their appointment will be helped to reschedule their appointment and advised to seek medical attention.

All the VAC customers are also strongly advised to purchase Courier Return of their documents, so they do not have to visit the Visa Application Centre again to collect their documents once the decision is made.

UKVI specifies standards for processing times of UK visas. The pre-COVID pandemic standards were as follows (for current processing times, you are advised to take specific guidance on your type of application):

• Non settlement visa applications from outside the UK – 90% within three weeks, 98% within six weeks, and 100% within 12 weeks of the application date

• Settlement applications from outside the UK – 98.5% within 12 weeks of the application date and 100% within 24 weeks of the application date

 

If it is a simple visa application, most of the decision will be made within 3 weeks even if you consider the current pandemic situation. If you apply for your visa overseas, you can apply 3 months earlier the date you plan to re-enter the country. Therefore, considering the delay in processing time, you should apply for your visa as early as possible to avoid any inconveniences in entering the UK.