Reference ยท Service times
When the UK starts counting overseas visa processing time
UK Visas and Immigration lists three weeks for many overseas visit, study and work routes, and 12 weeks for the family routes in this table. The countdown starts when the applicant completes the required identity step.
Sources checked
The selected family routes are listed at four times the three-week standard shown for many visit, study and work applications.
The identity step sets the start date
For eligible users of the UK Immigration ID Check app, UKVI starts the clock once identity verification and online submission are complete. If the application requires a visa centre appointment, the clock starts when fingerprints and a photograph are provided there. Time waiting for that appointment comes before the published processing window. Source 1
The decision message ends the clock
UKVI marks the end when it sends an email or letter with the decision and next steps. Check those instructions before making travel plans. Where a visa application centre holds a passport, the collection arrangements are a separate step. Source 1
Route and location both matter
The table covers applications made outside the UK. UKVI bases its published estimates on the Monday-to-Friday UK working week and counts UK public holidays within that timeframe. For visit, study or work routes, the government checker uses the application details and identity method to estimate when a decision is due. Source 1 Source 2
There is a separate priority schedule
Where the option appears at application, UKVI usually targets five working days for most priority decisions from outside the UK. The published priority standard for family and settlement cases is usually 30 working days. Extra checks or documents can lengthen processing, even when a faster service was purchased. Source 1 Source 3