“How long will my UK visa take?” is one of the most-asked questions in immigration. This 2026 guide sets out realistic processing times for the main routes, the priority services that speed things up, and the important caveats — always confirm the current target on GOV.UK before you rely on it.
Standard times from outside the UK
- Visit, study and work visas — usually about 3 weeks;
- Family/partner visas — usually about 12 weeks.
Standard times from inside the UK
In-country applications (such as a student or spouse extension) commonly take up to 8 weeks. Your existing leave usually continues (section 3C) while a decision is pending.
Priority services
- Priority — about £500, targets a decision in 5 working days;
- Super Priority — about £1,000, targets a decision by the end of the next working day;
- Spouse “Settlement Priority” — about £500, cuts overseas family-visa times from ~12 weeks to about 6 weeks.
Note: Super Priority is currently suspended for new partner/family applications made outside the UK, and priority services aren’t available everywhere.
Things that affect timing
The clock generally starts after your biometrics appointment. Complex cases, extra checks or missing documents can push times out, so submit a complete application and check the live target on GOV.UK.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a UK visa take?
Most visas applied for from outside the UK take about 3 weeks; family and partner visas take about 12 weeks.
How long do in-country applications take?
Often up to 8 weeks, for example a student or spouse extension; your leave usually continues while you wait.
Can I speed up my visa?
Yes — Priority (about £500, ~5 working days) or Super Priority (about £1,000, next working day) where available.
How long does a spouse visa take?
About 12 weeks from outside the UK, or around 6 weeks with the Settlement Priority service (about £500).
Is Super Priority always available?
No — it’s currently suspended for new partner and family applications made outside the UK, and not offered at every location.
When does the processing clock start?
Usually after your biometrics appointment — check the current target on GOV.UK.
