It is somewhat ironic that, while the Home Office recently released a brief one-minute video titled ‘Understanding Visa Processing Times’, the actual processing of obtaining a visa can often take several weeks or months.
As applicants might expect, the Home Office has established customer service standards for processing times and aims to provide decisions within these published time frames. The Home Office emphasises the importance of allowing sufficient time before planning travel to accommodate the visa application process. It is therefore sensible to avoid booking specific travel ahead of securing any required visa and to factor in current processing times for the visa route you intend to applying under – see below.
When Do Processing Times Start and End?
Visa processing begins once you submit your application online and verify your identity—either by attending an appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) or by using the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app. Processing concludes when you receive an email or letter from the Home Office informing you of the decision.
The Home Office aims to process non-settlement (temporary) visa applications within 15 working days (approximately three weeks). Settlement (indefinite leave to remain) application processing times are set at 120 working days (24 weeks). However, these targets are not always met.
Delays can occur for various reasons, such as requests for additional evidence, the need for an interview, or if the application is deemed “not straightforward.” In such cases, the Home Office may take longer to make a decision and will typically notify you via email.
The video advises applicants to contact the Home Office only if their application exceeds the stated processing time and they have not been contacted for further information. However, as many applicants will attest, determining when to follow up can be challenging.
How to Minimise Processing Delays
Depending on your visa category and the availability of services, you may opt to pay for expedited processing through ‘Priority’ or ‘Super Priority’ services.
- The Priority Service generally provides a decision within 5 working days, or up to 30 working days for Family visa applications from outside the UK.
- The Super Priority Service aims to deliver a decision by the end of the next working day.
If your application is urgent, Smith Stone Walters recommends considering these options where available.
The most effective way to prevent processing delays is to ensure your application is complete and accurate from the outset. Double-check that all required information and supporting documents are included and that all details are correct.
Missing or incorrect information is a leading cause of delays and refusals—issues that are often avoidable. Submitting a thorough, accurate application maximises your chances of obtaining your visa promptly.
Seeking Assistance?
Smith Stone Walters is ready to assist with any questions regarding Home Office visa applications. Now part of Envoy Global, a leading provider of immigration services, our organisation is committed to helping both companies and individuals manage their immigration submissions more effectively. Contact us today.
