🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 173 (from laksa103)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa173.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.gov.uk/guidance/visa-processing-times-applications-outside-the-uk\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.gov.uk/guidance/visa-processing-times-applications-outside-the-uk\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/guidance\/visa-processing-times-applications-outside-the-uk","crawl_time":1775093496,"first_indexed_time":1684810174,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"uk,gov,www!\/guidance\/visa-processing-times-applications-outside-the-uk s443","src_root_hash":"12544360876807614373","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Visa processing times: applications outside the UK - GOV.UK","meta_descriptions":["Check how quickly you’ll receive a decision on your UK visa application if you are applying from outside the UK."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"When to apply for a visa\nYou should allow enough time before you make a visa application.\nYou are not required to book any travel before you apply or before a decision is made on your application.\nYou will only receive a \nrefund of your application fee\n if we have not started to process your application.\nYou may be able \nto pay for a faster decision\n on a visa application.\nWhen your application processing time starts\nUK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) starts processing your application once you either:\nverify your identity and submit your documents and application online using the\nUK Immigration: ID Check app\n. We’ll tell you if you can use this\nattend your appointment at a\nvisa application centre (VAC)\nto provide your fingerprints and a photograph (biometric information)\nWhen your application processing time ends\nYou’ll get a letter or email to let you know that a\ndecision has been made on your application\n.\nIf you attended a VAC and left your passport, you should not return to the VAC until you have been contacted.\nYou do not need to contact UKVI to track your application if you’ve already made a visa application and it is still within the current processing times. We will not be able to provide information on the status of your application.\nWatch our video on understanding processing times\nWhen you might wait longer\nYour visa application may take longer to process if, for example:\nthe information in your application is not accurate or requires further consideration\nyou need to provide further evidence, for example evidence of funds\nyour supporting documents need to be verified\nyou need to attend an interview\nfurther information is required on your personal circumstances (for example if you have a criminal conviction)\nUKVI is experiencing increased visa demand\nthere is an unexpected technical outage affecting visa systems\nYou will be contacted within the current processing times if your application will take longer.\nIf your application has taken longer than the current processing times and you haven’t been contacted by UKVI about your visa application, you should\ncontact UKVI\n.\nCurrent processing times\nThe processing times listed below are based on the current volume of visa applications. The processing times are different if you paid for a\nfaster decision\n.\nProcessing times are based on the UK working week (Monday to Friday) and include public holidays in the UK. They do not include public holidays in other countries.\nAll UK processing times are measured against agreed\ncustomer service standards\n.\nIf you applied to visit, study or work in the UK, use the online service to \ncheck your visa processing time\n. This will tell you when you can expect a decision.\nVisit visas\nCategory\nProcessing time\nStandard Visitor\n3 weeks\nMarriage Visitor\n3 weeks\nChinese tour group\n3 weeks\nTransit\n3 weeks\nStudy visas\nCategory\nProcessing time\nStudent\n3 weeks\nChild Student\n3 weeks\nStudy English in the UK: Short-term student (6 to 11 month English language courses)\n3 weeks\nFamily visas\nCategory\nProcessing time\nPartner or spouse\n12 weeks\n \nParent\n12 weeks\n \nChild\n12 weeks\n \nAdult coming to be cared for by a relative\n12 weeks\n \nUkraine visas\nCategory\nProcessing time\nHomes for Ukraine\n3 weeks\nWork visas\nPopular work visas\nCategory\nProcessing time\nSkilled Worker\n3 weeks\n \nHealth and Care Worker\n3 weeks\n \nTemporary work visas\nCategory\nProcessing time\nGovernment Authorised Exchange\n3 weeks\n \nCharity Worker\n3 weeks\n \nCreative Worker\n3 weeks\n \nInternational Agreement\n3 weeks\n \nSeasonal Worker\n3 weeks\n \nReligious Worker\n3 weeks\n \nWork visas you can apply for without a job offer\nCategory\nProcessing time\nGlobal Talent\n3 weeks\n \nYouth Mobility Scheme\n3 weeks\n \nIndia Young Professionals Scheme visa\n3 weeks\n \nUK Ancestry\n3 weeks\n \nHigh Potential Individual (HPI)\n3 weeks\n \nWork visas to start a business\nCategory\nProcessing time\nInnovator Founder\n3 weeks\n \nStart-up\n3 weeks\n \nWork visas for an overseas employer\nCategory\nProcessing time\nOverseas Domestic Worker\n3 weeks\n \nGraduate Trainee\n3 weeks\n \nSecondment Worker\n3 weeks\n \nSenior or Specialist Worker\n3 weeks\n \nRepresentative of an Overseas Business\n3 weeks\n \nService Supplier\n3 weeks\n \nUK Expansion Worker\n3 weeks\n \nOther visas and permits\nCategory\nProcessing time\nBritish National (Overseas)\n12 weeks\n \nInternational Sportsperson\n3 weeks\n \nMinister of Religion\n3 weeks\n \nScale-up Worker\n3 weeks\n \nPublished 22 May 2023\nLast updated 22 October 2025\nshow all updates\n22 October 2025\n'When your application processing time ends' section has been updated to clarify that you should only return to a visa application centre when you are contacted, if you left your passport there.\n21 July 2025\nAdded a link to the online service which tells you when you can expect a decision on your application.\n15 July 2025\nRemoved the section on applications made in the USA, because they now follow the same process as applications made in other countries.\n20 May 2025\nAdded information about processing times if you pay for a faster decision.\n8 April 2025\nAdded clarification that processing times do not include bank holidays.\n12 February 2025\nAdded information on when your visa application may take longer to process.\n26 November 2024\nLink to processing times explanatory video added.\n2 September 2024\nUpdated family visa processing times.\n9 July 2024\nUpdated to clarify contact process in the following sections: 'When your application processing time ends' and 'When you might wait longer'.\n9 May 2024\nProcessing time and service standard for Permitted Paid Engagement removed, as it's now included as part of the Standard Visitor visa application.\n19 February 2024\nAmended processing time on the Ukraine visas.\n8 September 2023\nClarified the information about short term study visas.\n26 June 2023\nUpdated family visa processing times structure.\n22 May 2023\nFirst published.","attrs_markdown":"## Cookies on GOV.UK\nWe use some essential cookies to make this website work.\n\nWe’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.\n\nWe also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.\n\nYou have accepted additional cookies. You can [change your cookie settings](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/help\/cookies) at any time.\n\nYou have rejected additional cookies. You can [change your cookie settings](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/help\/cookies) at any time.\n\nAccept additional cookies\n\nReject additional cookies\n\n[View cookies](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/help\/cookies)\n\nHide cookie message\n\n[Skip to main content](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/guidance\/visa-processing-times-applications-outside-the-uk#content)\n\n## Navigation menu\n[Menu](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/browse)\n\nMenu\n\n### Services and information\n- [Benefits](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/browse\/benefits)\n- [Births, death, marriages and care](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/browse\/births-deaths-marriages)\n- [Business and self-employed](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/browse\/business)\n- [Childcare and parenting](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/browse\/childcare-parenting)\n- [Citizenship and living in the UK](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/browse\/citizenship)\n- [Crime, justice and the law](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/browse\/justice)\n- [Disabled people](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/browse\/disabilities)\n- [Driving and transport](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/browse\/driving)\n- [Education and learning](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/browse\/education)\n- [Employing people](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/browse\/employing-people)\n- [Environment and countryside](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/browse\/environment-countryside)\n- [Housing and local services](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/browse\/housing-local-services)\n- [Money and tax](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/browse\/tax)\n- [Passports, travel and living abroad](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/browse\/abroad)\n- [Visas and immigration](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/browse\/visas-immigration)\n- [Working, jobs and pensions](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/browse\/working)\n\n### Government activity\n- [Departments](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations)\n  Departments, agencies and public bodies\n- [News](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/search\/news-and-communications)\n  News stories, speeches, letters and notices\n- [Guidance and regulation](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/search\/guidance-and-regulation)\n  Detailed guidance, regulations and rules\n- [Research and statistics](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/search\/research-and-statistics)\n  Reports, analysis and official statistics\n- [Policy papers and consultations](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/search\/policy-papers-and-consultations)\n  Consultations and strategy\n- [Transparency](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/search\/transparency-and-freedom-of-information-releases)\n  Data, Freedom of Information releases and corporate reports\n\nSearch GOV.UK\n\n×\n\n[Search GOV.UK](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/search)\n### Search\n\n1. [Home](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/)\n2. [Entering and staying in the UK](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/entering-staying-uk)\n3. [Visas and entry clearance](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/entering-staying-uk\/visas-entry-clearance)\n\nGuidance\n\n# Visa processing times: applications outside the UK\n\nCheck how quickly you’ll receive a decision on your UK visa application if you are applying from outside the UK.\n\nFrom:\n\n[UK Visas and Immigration](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/uk-visas-and-immigration)\n\nPublished\n\n22 May 2023\n\nLast updated\n\n22 October 2025 —  [See all updates](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/guidance\/visa-processing-times-applications-outside-the-uk#full-publication-update-history)\n\n## Contents\n1. [When to apply for a visa](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/guidance\/visa-processing-times-applications-outside-the-uk#when-to-apply-for-a-visa)\n2. [When your application processing time starts](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/guidance\/visa-processing-times-applications-outside-the-uk#when-your-application-processing-time-starts)\n3. [When your application processing time ends](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/guidance\/visa-processing-times-applications-outside-the-uk#when-your-application-processing-time-ends)\n4. [When you might wait longer](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/guidance\/visa-processing-times-applications-outside-the-uk#when-you-might-wait-longer)\n5. [Current processing times](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/guidance\/visa-processing-times-applications-outside-the-uk#current-processing-times)\n6. [Visit visas](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/guidance\/visa-processing-times-applications-outside-the-uk#visit-visas)\n7. [Study visas](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/guidance\/visa-processing-times-applications-outside-the-uk#study-visas)\n8. [Family visas](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/guidance\/visa-processing-times-applications-outside-the-uk#family-visas)\n9. [Ukraine visas](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/guidance\/visa-processing-times-applications-outside-the-uk#ukraine-visas)\n10. [Work visas](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/guidance\/visa-processing-times-applications-outside-the-uk#work-visas)\n11. [Other visas and permits](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/guidance\/visa-processing-times-applications-outside-the-uk#other-visas-and-permits)\n\nPrint this page\n\n## When to apply for a visa\nYou should allow enough time before you make a visa application.\n\nYou are not required to book any travel before you apply or before a decision is made on your application.\n\nYou will only receive a [refund of your application fee](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/cancel-visa) if we have not started to process your application.\n\nYou may be able [to pay for a faster decision](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/faster-decision-visa-settlement) on a visa application.\n\n## When your application processing time starts\nUK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) starts processing your application once you either:\n\n- verify your identity and submit your documents and application online using the [UK Immigration: ID Check app](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/guidance\/using-the-uk-immigration-id-check-app). We’ll tell you if you can use this\n- attend your appointment at a [visa application centre (VAC)](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/find-a-visa-application-centre) to provide your fingerprints and a photograph (biometric information)\n## When your application processing time ends\nYou’ll get a letter or email to let you know that a [decision has been made on your application](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/apply-to-come-to-the-uk\/getting-a-decision-on-your-application).\n\nIf you attended a VAC and left your passport, you should not return to the VAC until you have been contacted.\n\nYou do not need to contact UKVI to track your application if you’ve already made a visa application and it is still within the current processing times. We will not be able to provide information on the status of your application.\n\n[Watch our video on understanding processing times](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/visa-processing-times\/processing-times-video)\n## When you might wait longer\nYour visa application may take longer to process if, for example:\n\n- the information in your application is not accurate or requires further consideration\n- you need to provide further evidence, for example evidence of funds\n- your supporting documents need to be verified\n- you need to attend an interview\n- further information is required on your personal circumstances (for example if you have a criminal conviction)\n- UKVI is experiencing increased visa demand\n- there is an unexpected technical outage affecting visa systems\n\nYou will be contacted within the current processing times if your application will take longer.\n\nIf your application has taken longer than the current processing times and you haven’t been contacted by UKVI about your visa application, you should [contact UKVI](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/contact-ukvi-inside-outside-uk).\n\n## Current processing times\nThe processing times listed below are based on the current volume of visa applications. The processing times are different if you paid for a [faster decision](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/faster-decision-visa-settlement).\n\nProcessing times are based on the UK working week (Monday to Friday) and include public holidays in the UK. They do not include public holidays in other countries.\n\nAll UK processing times are measured against agreed [customer service standards](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/collections\/customer-service-standards).\n\nIf you applied to visit, study or work in the UK, use the online service to [check your visa processing time](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/check-visa-processing-time). This will tell you when you can expect a decision.\n\n## Visit visas\n| Category | Processing time |\n|---|---|\n| [Standard Visitor](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/standard-visitor) | 3 weeks |\n| [Marriage Visitor](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/marriage-visa) | 3 weeks |\n| [Chinese tour group](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/ads-visa) | 3 weeks |\n| [Transit](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/transit-visa) | 3 weeks |\n## Study visas\n| Category | Processing time |\n|---|---|\n| [Student](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/student-visa) | 3 weeks |\n| [Child Student](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/child-study-visa) | 3 weeks |\n| [Study English in the UK: Short-term student (6 to 11 month English language courses)](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/visa-to-study-english) | 3 weeks |\n## Family visas\n|   |   |   |\n|---|---|---|\n| Category | Processing time |   |\n| [Partner or spouse](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/uk-family-visa\/partner-spouse) | 12 weeks |   |\n| [Parent](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/uk-family-visa\/parent) | 12 weeks |   |\n| [Child](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/uk-family-visa\/child) | 12 weeks |   |\n| [Adult coming to be cared for by a relative](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/uk-family-visa\/adult-dependent-relative) | 12 weeks |   |\n## Ukraine visas\n| Category | Processing time |\n|---|---|\n| [Homes for Ukraine](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/guidance\/apply-for-a-visa-under-the-ukraine-sponsorship-scheme) | 3 weeks |\n## Work visas\n### Popular work visas\n|   |   |   |\n|---|---|---|\n| Category | Processing time |   |\n| [Skilled Worker](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/skilled-worker-visa) | 3 weeks |   |\n| [Health and Care Worker](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/health-care-worker-visa\/your-job) | 3 weeks |   |\n### Temporary work visas\n|   |   |   |\n|---|---|---|\n| Category | Processing time |   |\n| [Government Authorised Exchange](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government-authorised-exchange) | 3 weeks |   |\n| [Charity Worker](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/temporary-worker-charity-worker-visa) | 3 weeks |   |\n| [Creative Worker](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/creative-worker-visa) | 3 weeks |   |\n| [International Agreement](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/international-agreement-worker-visa) | 3 weeks |   |\n| [Seasonal Worker](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/seasonal-worker-visa) | 3 weeks |   |\n| [Religious Worker](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/religious-worker-visa) | 3 weeks |   |\n### Work visas you can apply for without a job offer\n|   |   |   |\n|---|---|---|\n| Category | Processing time |   |\n| [Global Talent](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/global-talent) | 3 weeks |   |\n| [Youth Mobility Scheme](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/youth-mobility) | 3 weeks |   |\n| [India Young Professionals Scheme visa](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/india-young-professionals-scheme-visa) | 3 weeks |   |\n| [UK Ancestry](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/ancestry-visa) | 3 weeks |   |\n| [High Potential Individual (HPI)](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/high-potential-individual-visa) | 3 weeks |   |\n### Work visas to start a business\n|   |   |   |\n|---|---|---|\n| Category | Processing time |   |\n| [Innovator Founder](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/innovator-founder-visa) | 3 weeks |   |\n| [Start-up](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/start-up-visa) | 3 weeks |   |\n### Work visas for an overseas employer\n|   |   |   |\n|---|---|---|\n| Category | Processing time |   |\n| [Overseas Domestic Worker](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/overseas-domestic-worker-visa) | 3 weeks |   |\n| [Graduate Trainee](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/graduate-trainee-visa) | 3 weeks |   |\n| [Secondment Worker](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/secondment-worker-visa) | 3 weeks |   |\n| [Senior or Specialist Worker](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/senior-specialist-worker-visa) | 3 weeks |   |\n| [Representative of an Overseas Business](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/representative-overseas-business) | 3 weeks |   |\n| [Service Supplier](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/service-supplier-visa) | 3 weeks |   |\n| [UK Expansion Worker](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/uk-expansion-worker-visa) | 3 weeks |   |\n## Other visas and permits\n|   |   |   |\n|---|---|---|\n| Category | Processing time |   |\n| [British National (Overseas)](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/british-national-overseas-bno-visa) | 12 weeks |   |\n| [International Sportsperson](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/sportsperson-visa) | 3 weeks |   |\n| [Minister of Religion](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/minister-of-religion-visa) | 3 weeks |   |\n| [Scale-up Worker](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/scale-up-worker-visa) | 3 weeks |   |\n\n## Updates to this page\nPublished 22 May 2023\n\nLast updated 22 October 2025 [\\+ show all updates](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/guidance\/visa-processing-times-applications-outside-the-uk#full-history)\n\n1. 22 October 2025\n   'When your application processing time ends' section has been updated to clarify that you should only return to a visa application centre when you are contacted, if you left your passport there.\n2. 21 July 2025\n   Added a link to the online service which tells you when you can expect a decision on your application.\n3. 15 July 2025\n   Removed the section on applications made in the USA, because they now follow the same process as applications made in other countries.\n4. 20 May 2025\n   Added information about processing times if you pay for a faster decision.\n5. 8 April 2025\n   Added clarification that processing times do not include bank holidays.\n6. 12 February 2025\n   Added information on when your visa application may take longer to process.\n7. 26 November 2024\n   Link to processing times explanatory video added.\n8. 2 September 2024\n   Updated family visa processing times.\n9. 9 July 2024\n   Updated to clarify contact process in the following sections: 'When your application processing time ends' and 'When you might wait longer'.\n10. 9 May 2024\n    Processing time and service standard for Permitted Paid Engagement removed, as it's now included as part of the Standard Visitor visa application.\n11. 19 February 2024\n    Amended processing time on the Ukraine visas.\n12. 8 September 2023\n    Clarified the information about short term study visas.\n13. 26 June 2023\n    Updated family visa processing times structure.\n14. 22 May 2023\n    First published.\n\n## Sign up for emails or print this page\nPrint this page\n\n[Contents](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/guidance\/visa-processing-times-applications-outside-the-uk#contents)\n\n## Related content\n### Collection\n- [Visa processing times](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/collections\/visa-processing-times)\n\n## Explore the topic\n- [What you need to do](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/browse\/visas-immigration\/what-you-need-to-do)\n\n## Is this page useful?\n- [Maybe](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/contact\/govuk)\n- Yes this page is useful\n- No this page is not useful\n\nThank you for your feedback\n\nReport a problem with this page\n\n## Help us improve GOV.UK\nTo help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. [Please fill in this survey (opens in a new taband requires JavaScript)](https:\/\/www.smartsurvey.co.uk\/s\/gov-uk-banner\/?c=no-js).\n\nCancel\n\n## Services and information\n- [Benefits](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/browse\/benefits)\n- [Births, death, marriages and care](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/browse\/births-deaths-marriages)\n- [Business and self-employed](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/browse\/business)\n- [Childcare and parenting](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/browse\/childcare-parenting)\n- [Citizenship and living in the UK](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/browse\/citizenship)\n- [Crime, justice and the law](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/browse\/justice)\n- [Disabled people](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/browse\/disabilities)\n- [Driving and transport](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/browse\/driving)\n- [Education and learning](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/browse\/education)\n- [Employing people](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/browse\/employing-people)\n- [Environment and countryside](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/browse\/environment-countryside)\n- [Housing and local services](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/browse\/housing-local-services)\n- [Money and tax](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/browse\/tax)\n- [Passports, travel and living abroad](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/browse\/abroad)\n- [Visas and immigration](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/browse\/visas-immigration)\n- [Working, jobs and pensions](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/browse\/working)\n\n## Government activity\n- [Departments](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations)\n- [News](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/search\/news-and-communications)\n- [Guidance and regulation](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/search\/guidance-and-regulation)\n- [Research and statistics](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/search\/research-and-statistics)\n- [Policy papers and consultations](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/search\/policy-papers-and-consultations)\n- [Transparency](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/search\/transparency-and-freedom-of-information-releases)\n- [How government works](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/how-government-works)\n- [Get involved](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/get-involved)\n***\n## Support links\n- [Help](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/help)\n- [Privacy](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/help\/privacy-notice)\n- [Cookies](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/help\/cookies)\n- [Accessibility statement](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/help\/accessibility-statement)\n- [Contact](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/contact)\n- [Terms and conditions](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/help\/terms-conditions)\n- [Rhestr o Wasanaethau Cymraeg](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/cymraeg)\n- [Government Digital Service](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/government-digital-service)\n\nAll content is available under the [Open Government Licence v3.0](https:\/\/www.nationalarchives.gov.uk\/doc\/open-government-licence\/version\/3\/), except where otherwise stated\n\n[© Crown copyright](https:\/\/www.nationalarchives.gov.uk\/information-management\/re-using-public-sector-information\/uk-government-licensing-framework\/crown-copyright\/)","attrs_readable_markdown":"## When to apply for a visa\nYou should allow enough time before you make a visa application.\n\nYou are not required to book any travel before you apply or before a decision is made on your application.\n\nYou will only receive a [refund of your application fee](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/cancel-visa) if we have not started to process your application.\n\nYou may be able [to pay for a faster decision](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/faster-decision-visa-settlement) on a visa application.\n\n## When your application processing time starts\nUK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) starts processing your application once you either:\n\n- verify your identity and submit your documents and application online using the [UK Immigration: ID Check app](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/guidance\/using-the-uk-immigration-id-check-app). We’ll tell you if you can use this\n- attend your appointment at a [visa application centre (VAC)](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/find-a-visa-application-centre) to provide your fingerprints and a photograph (biometric information)\n## When your application processing time ends\nYou’ll get a letter or email to let you know that a [decision has been made on your application](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/apply-to-come-to-the-uk\/getting-a-decision-on-your-application).\n\nIf you attended a VAC and left your passport, you should not return to the VAC until you have been contacted.\n\nYou do not need to contact UKVI to track your application if you’ve already made a visa application and it is still within the current processing times. We will not be able to provide information on the status of your application.\n\n[Watch our video on understanding processing times](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/visa-processing-times\/processing-times-video)\n## When you might wait longer\nYour visa application may take longer to process if, for example:\n\n- the information in your application is not accurate or requires further consideration\n- you need to provide further evidence, for example evidence of funds\n- your supporting documents need to be verified\n- you need to attend an interview\n- further information is required on your personal circumstances (for example if you have a criminal conviction)\n- UKVI is experiencing increased visa demand\n- there is an unexpected technical outage affecting visa systems\n\nYou will be contacted within the current processing times if your application will take longer.\n\nIf your application has taken longer than the current processing times and you haven’t been contacted by UKVI about your visa application, you should [contact UKVI](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/contact-ukvi-inside-outside-uk).\n\n## Current processing times\nThe processing times listed below are based on the current volume of visa applications. The processing times are different if you paid for a [faster decision](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/faster-decision-visa-settlement).\n\nProcessing times are based on the UK working week (Monday to Friday) and include public holidays in the UK. They do not include public holidays in other countries.\n\nAll UK processing times are measured against agreed [customer service standards](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/collections\/customer-service-standards).\n\nIf you applied to visit, study or work in the UK, use the online service to [check your visa processing time](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/check-visa-processing-time). This will tell you when you can expect a decision.\n\n## Visit visas\n| Category | Processing time |\n|---|---|\n| [Standard Visitor](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/standard-visitor) | 3 weeks |\n| [Marriage Visitor](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/marriage-visa) | 3 weeks |\n| [Chinese tour group](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/ads-visa) | 3 weeks |\n| [Transit](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/transit-visa) | 3 weeks |\n## Study visas\n| Category | Processing time |\n|---|---|\n| [Student](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/student-visa) | 3 weeks |\n| [Child Student](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/child-study-visa) | 3 weeks |\n| [Study English in the UK: Short-term student (6 to 11 month English language courses)](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/visa-to-study-english) | 3 weeks |\n## Family visas\n|   |   |   |\n|---|---|---|\n| Category | Processing time |   |\n| [Partner or spouse](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/uk-family-visa\/partner-spouse) | 12 weeks |   |\n| [Parent](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/uk-family-visa\/parent) | 12 weeks |   |\n| [Child](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/uk-family-visa\/child) | 12 weeks |   |\n| [Adult coming to be cared for by a relative](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/uk-family-visa\/adult-dependent-relative) | 12 weeks |   |\n## Ukraine visas\n| Category | Processing time |\n|---|---|\n| [Homes for Ukraine](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/guidance\/apply-for-a-visa-under-the-ukraine-sponsorship-scheme) | 3 weeks |\n## Work visas\n### Popular work visas\n|   |   |   |\n|---|---|---|\n| Category | Processing time |   |\n| [Skilled Worker](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/skilled-worker-visa) | 3 weeks |   |\n| [Health and Care Worker](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/health-care-worker-visa\/your-job) | 3 weeks |   |\n### Temporary work visas\n|   |   |   |\n|---|---|---|\n| Category | Processing time |   |\n| [Government Authorised Exchange](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government-authorised-exchange) | 3 weeks |   |\n| [Charity Worker](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/temporary-worker-charity-worker-visa) | 3 weeks |   |\n| [Creative Worker](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/creative-worker-visa) | 3 weeks |   |\n| [International Agreement](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/international-agreement-worker-visa) | 3 weeks |   |\n| [Seasonal Worker](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/seasonal-worker-visa) | 3 weeks |   |\n| [Religious Worker](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/religious-worker-visa) | 3 weeks |   |\n### Work visas you can apply for without a job offer\n|   |   |   |\n|---|---|---|\n| Category | Processing time |   |\n| [Global Talent](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/global-talent) | 3 weeks |   |\n| [Youth Mobility Scheme](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/youth-mobility) | 3 weeks |   |\n| [India Young Professionals Scheme visa](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/india-young-professionals-scheme-visa) | 3 weeks |   |\n| [UK Ancestry](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/ancestry-visa) | 3 weeks |   |\n| [High Potential Individual (HPI)](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/high-potential-individual-visa) | 3 weeks |   |\n### Work visas to start a business\n|   |   |   |\n|---|---|---|\n| Category | Processing time |   |\n| [Innovator Founder](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/innovator-founder-visa) | 3 weeks |   |\n| [Start-up](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/start-up-visa) | 3 weeks |   |\n### Work visas for an overseas employer\n|   |   |   |\n|---|---|---|\n| Category | Processing time |   |\n| [Overseas Domestic Worker](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/overseas-domestic-worker-visa) | 3 weeks |   |\n| [Graduate Trainee](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/graduate-trainee-visa) | 3 weeks |   |\n| [Secondment Worker](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/secondment-worker-visa) | 3 weeks |   |\n| [Senior or Specialist Worker](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/senior-specialist-worker-visa) | 3 weeks |   |\n| [Representative of an Overseas Business](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/representative-overseas-business) | 3 weeks |   |\n| [Service Supplier](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/service-supplier-visa) | 3 weeks |   |\n| [UK Expansion Worker](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/uk-expansion-worker-visa) | 3 weeks |   |\n## Other visas and permits\n|   |   |   |\n|---|---|---|\n| Category | Processing time |   |\n| [British National (Overseas)](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/british-national-overseas-bno-visa) | 12 weeks |   |\n| [International Sportsperson](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/sportsperson-visa) | 3 weeks |   |\n| [Minister of Religion](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/minister-of-religion-visa) | 3 weeks |   |\n| [Scale-up Worker](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/scale-up-worker-visa) | 3 weeks |   |\n\nPublished 22 May 2023\n\nLast updated 22 October 2025 [show all updates](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/guidance\/visa-processing-times-applications-outside-the-uk#full-history)\n\n1. 22 October 2025\n   'When your application processing time ends' section has been updated to clarify that you should only return to a visa application centre when you are contacted, if you left your passport there.\n2. 21 July 2025\n   Added a link to the online service which tells you when you can expect a decision on your application.\n3. 15 July 2025\n   Removed the section on applications made in the USA, because they now follow the same process as applications made in other countries.\n4. 20 May 2025\n   Added information about processing times if you pay for a faster decision.\n5. 8 April 2025\n   Added clarification that processing times do not include bank holidays.\n6. 12 February 2025\n   Added information on when your visa application may take longer to process.\n7. 26 November 2024\n   Link to processing times explanatory video added.\n8. 2 September 2024\n   Updated family visa processing times.\n9. 9 July 2024\n   Updated to clarify contact process in the following sections: 'When your application processing time ends' and 'When you might wait longer'.\n10. 9 May 2024\n    Processing time and service standard for Permitted Paid Engagement removed, as it's now included as part of the Standard Visitor visa application.\n11. 19 February 2024\n    Amended processing time on the Ukraine visas.\n12. 8 September 2023\n    Clarified the information about short term study visas.\n13. 26 June 2023\n    Updated family visa processing times structure.\n14. 22 May 2023\n    First published.","meta_canonical":null}

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Boilerpipe Text	When to apply for a visa You should allow enough time before you make a visa application. You are not required to book any travel before you apply or before a decision is made on your application. You will only receive a refund of your application fee if we have not started to process your application. You may be able to pay for a faster decision on a visa application. When your application processing time starts UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) starts processing your application once you either: verify your identity and submit your documents and application online using the UK Immigration: ID Check app . We’ll tell you if you can use this attend your appointment at a visa application centre (VAC) to provide your fingerprints and a photograph (biometric information) When your application processing time ends You’ll get a letter or email to let you know that a decision has been made on your application . If you attended a VAC and left your passport, you should not return to the VAC until you have been contacted. You do not need to contact UKVI to track your application if you’ve already made a visa application and it is still within the current processing times. We will not be able to provide information on the status of your application. Watch our video on understanding processing times When you might wait longer Your visa application may take longer to process if, for example: the information in your application is not accurate or requires further consideration you need to provide further evidence, for example evidence of funds your supporting documents need to be verified you need to attend an interview further information is required on your personal circumstances (for example if you have a criminal conviction) UKVI is experiencing increased visa demand there is an unexpected technical outage affecting visa systems You will be contacted within the current processing times if your application will take longer. If your application has taken longer than the current processing times and you haven’t been contacted by UKVI about your visa application, you should contact UKVI . Current processing times The processing times listed below are based on the current volume of visa applications. The processing times are different if you paid for a faster decision . Processing times are based on the UK working week (Monday to Friday) and include public holidays in the UK. They do not include public holidays in other countries. All UK processing times are measured against agreed customer service standards . If you applied to visit, study or work in the UK, use the online service to check your visa processing time . This will tell you when you can expect a decision. Visit visas Category Processing time Standard Visitor 3 weeks Marriage Visitor 3 weeks Chinese tour group 3 weeks Transit 3 weeks Study visas Category Processing time Student 3 weeks Child Student 3 weeks Study English in the UK: Short-term student (6 to 11 month English language courses) 3 weeks Family visas Category Processing time Partner or spouse 12 weeks Parent 12 weeks Child 12 weeks Adult coming to be cared for by a relative 12 weeks Ukraine visas Category Processing time Homes for Ukraine 3 weeks Work visas Popular work visas Category Processing time Skilled Worker 3 weeks Health and Care Worker 3 weeks Temporary work visas Category Processing time 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 Category Processing time Global Talent 3 weeks Youth Mobility Scheme 3 weeks India Young Professionals Scheme visa 3 weeks UK Ancestry 3 weeks High Potential Individual (HPI) 3 weeks Work visas to start a business Category Processing time Innovator Founder 3 weeks Start-up 3 weeks Work visas for an overseas employer Category Processing time 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 Category Processing time British National (Overseas) 12 weeks International Sportsperson 3 weeks Minister of Religion 3 weeks Scale-up Worker 3 weeks Published 22 May 2023 Last updated 22 October 2025 show all updates 22 October 2025 'When your application processing time ends' section has been updated to clarify that you should only return to a visa application centre when you are contacted, if you left your passport there. 21 July 2025 Added a link to the online service which tells you when you can expect a decision on your application. 15 July 2025 Removed the section on applications made in the USA, because they now follow the same process as applications made in other countries. 20 May 2025 Added information about processing times if you pay for a faster decision. 8 April 2025 Added clarification that processing times do not include bank holidays. 12 February 2025 Added information on when your visa application may take longer to process. 26 November 2024 Link to processing times explanatory video added. 2 September 2024 Updated family visa processing times. 9 July 2024 Updated to clarify contact process in the following sections: 'When your application processing time ends' and 'When you might wait longer'. 9 May 2024 Processing time and service standard for Permitted Paid Engagement removed, as it's now included as part of the Standard Visitor visa application. 19 February 2024 Amended processing time on the Ukraine visas. 8 September 2023 Clarified the information about short term study visas. 26 June 2023 Updated family visa processing times structure. 22 May 2023 First published.
Markdown	## Cookies on GOV.UK We use some essential cookies to make this website work. We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services. We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services. You have accepted additional cookies. You can [change your cookie settings](https://www.gov.uk/help/cookies) at any time. You have rejected additional cookies. You can [change your cookie settings](https://www.gov.uk/help/cookies) at any time. Accept additional cookies Reject additional cookies [View cookies](https://www.gov.uk/help/cookies) Hide cookie message [Skip to main content](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/visa-processing-times-applications-outside-the-uk#content) ## Navigation menu [Menu](https://www.gov.uk/browse) Menu ### Services and information - [Benefits](https://www.gov.uk/browse/benefits) - [Births, death, marriages and care](https://www.gov.uk/browse/births-deaths-marriages) - [Business and self-employed](https://www.gov.uk/browse/business) - [Childcare and parenting](https://www.gov.uk/browse/childcare-parenting) - [Citizenship and living in the UK](https://www.gov.uk/browse/citizenship) - [Crime, justice and the law](https://www.gov.uk/browse/justice) - [Disabled people](https://www.gov.uk/browse/disabilities) - [Driving and transport](https://www.gov.uk/browse/driving) - [Education and learning](https://www.gov.uk/browse/education) - [Employing people](https://www.gov.uk/browse/employing-people) - [Environment and countryside](https://www.gov.uk/browse/environment-countryside) - [Housing and local services](https://www.gov.uk/browse/housing-local-services) - [Money and tax](https://www.gov.uk/browse/tax) - [Passports, travel and living abroad](https://www.gov.uk/browse/abroad) - [Visas and immigration](https://www.gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration) - [Working, jobs and pensions](https://www.gov.uk/browse/working) ### Government activity - [Departments](https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations) Departments, agencies and public bodies - [News](https://www.gov.uk/search/news-and-communications) News stories, speeches, letters and notices - [Guidance and regulation](https://www.gov.uk/search/guidance-and-regulation) Detailed guidance, regulations and rules - [Research and statistics](https://www.gov.uk/search/research-and-statistics) Reports, analysis and official statistics - [Policy papers and consultations](https://www.gov.uk/search/policy-papers-and-consultations) Consultations and strategy - [Transparency](https://www.gov.uk/search/transparency-and-freedom-of-information-releases) Data, Freedom of Information releases and corporate reports Search GOV.UK × [Search GOV.UK](https://www.gov.uk/search) ### Search 1. [Home](https://www.gov.uk/) 2. [Entering and staying in the UK](https://www.gov.uk/entering-staying-uk) 3. [Visas and entry clearance](https://www.gov.uk/entering-staying-uk/visas-entry-clearance) Guidance # Visa processing times: applications outside the UK Check how quickly you’ll receive a decision on your UK visa application if you are applying from outside the UK. From: [UK Visas and Immigration](https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/uk-visas-and-immigration) Published 22 May 2023 Last updated 22 October 2025 — [See all updates](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/visa-processing-times-applications-outside-the-uk#full-publication-update-history) ## Contents 1. [When to apply for a visa](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/visa-processing-times-applications-outside-the-uk#when-to-apply-for-a-visa) 2. [When your application processing time starts](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/visa-processing-times-applications-outside-the-uk#when-your-application-processing-time-starts) 3. [When your application processing time ends](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/visa-processing-times-applications-outside-the-uk#when-your-application-processing-time-ends) 4. [When you might wait longer](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/visa-processing-times-applications-outside-the-uk#when-you-might-wait-longer) 5. [Current processing times](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/visa-processing-times-applications-outside-the-uk#current-processing-times) 6. [Visit visas](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/visa-processing-times-applications-outside-the-uk#visit-visas) 7. [Study visas](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/visa-processing-times-applications-outside-the-uk#study-visas) 8. [Family visas](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/visa-processing-times-applications-outside-the-uk#family-visas) 9. [Ukraine visas](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/visa-processing-times-applications-outside-the-uk#ukraine-visas) 10. [Work visas](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/visa-processing-times-applications-outside-the-uk#work-visas) 11. [Other visas and permits](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/visa-processing-times-applications-outside-the-uk#other-visas-and-permits) Print this page ## When to apply for a visa You should allow enough time before you make a visa application. You are not required to book any travel before you apply or before a decision is made on your application. You will only receive a [refund of your application fee](https://www.gov.uk/cancel-visa) if we have not started to process your application. You may be able [to pay for a faster decision](https://www.gov.uk/faster-decision-visa-settlement) on a visa application. ## When your application processing time starts UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) starts processing your application once you either: - verify your identity and submit your documents and application online using the [UK Immigration: ID Check app](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/using-the-uk-immigration-id-check-app). We’ll tell you if you can use this - attend your appointment at a [visa application centre (VAC)](https://www.gov.uk/find-a-visa-application-centre) to provide your fingerprints and a photograph (biometric information) ## When your application processing time ends You’ll get a letter or email to let you know that a [decision has been made on your application](https://www.gov.uk/apply-to-come-to-the-uk/getting-a-decision-on-your-application). If you attended a VAC and left your passport, you should not return to the VAC until you have been contacted. You do not need to contact UKVI to track your application if you’ve already made a visa application and it is still within the current processing times. We will not be able to provide information on the status of your application. [Watch our video on understanding processing times](https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/visa-processing-times/processing-times-video) ## When you might wait longer Your visa application may take longer to process if, for example: - the information in your application is not accurate or requires further consideration - you need to provide further evidence, for example evidence of funds - your supporting documents need to be verified - you need to attend an interview - further information is required on your personal circumstances (for example if you have a criminal conviction) - UKVI is experiencing increased visa demand - there is an unexpected technical outage affecting visa systems You will be contacted within the current processing times if your application will take longer. If your application has taken longer than the current processing times and you haven’t been contacted by UKVI about your visa application, you should [contact UKVI](https://www.gov.uk/contact-ukvi-inside-outside-uk). ## Current processing times The processing times listed below are based on the current volume of visa applications. The processing times are different if you paid for a [faster decision](https://www.gov.uk/faster-decision-visa-settlement). Processing times are based on the UK working week (Monday to Friday) and include public holidays in the UK. They do not include public holidays in other countries. All UK processing times are measured against agreed [customer service standards](https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/customer-service-standards). If you applied to visit, study or work in the UK, use the online service to [check your visa processing time](https://www.gov.uk/check-visa-processing-time). This will tell you when you can expect a decision. ## Visit visas \| Category \| Processing time \| \|---\|---\| \| [Standard Visitor](https://www.gov.uk/standard-visitor) \| 3 weeks \| \| [Marriage Visitor](https://www.gov.uk/marriage-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| [Chinese tour group](https://www.gov.uk/ads-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| [Transit](https://www.gov.uk/transit-visa) \| 3 weeks \| ## Study visas \| Category \| Processing time \| \|---\|---\| \| [Student](https://www.gov.uk/student-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| [Child Student](https://www.gov.uk/child-study-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| [Study English in the UK: Short-term student (6 to 11 month English language courses)](https://www.gov.uk/visa-to-study-english) \| 3 weeks \| ## Family visas \| \| \| \| \|---\|---\|---\| \| Category \| Processing time \| \| \| [Partner or spouse](https://www.gov.uk/uk-family-visa/partner-spouse) \| 12 weeks \| \| \| [Parent](https://www.gov.uk/uk-family-visa/parent) \| 12 weeks \| \| \| [Child](https://www.gov.uk/uk-family-visa/child) \| 12 weeks \| \| \| [Adult coming to be cared for by a relative](https://www.gov.uk/uk-family-visa/adult-dependent-relative) \| 12 weeks \| \| ## Ukraine visas \| Category \| Processing time \| \|---\|---\| \| [Homes for Ukraine](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-a-visa-under-the-ukraine-sponsorship-scheme) \| 3 weeks \| ## Work visas ### Popular work visas \| \| \| \| \|---\|---\|---\| \| Category \| Processing time \| \| \| [Skilled Worker](https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| \| [Health and Care Worker](https://www.gov.uk/health-care-worker-visa/your-job) \| 3 weeks \| \| ### Temporary work visas \| \| \| \| \|---\|---\|---\| \| Category \| Processing time \| \| \| [Government Authorised Exchange](https://www.gov.uk/government-authorised-exchange) \| 3 weeks \| \| \| [Charity Worker](https://www.gov.uk/temporary-worker-charity-worker-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| \| [Creative Worker](https://www.gov.uk/creative-worker-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| \| [International Agreement](https://www.gov.uk/international-agreement-worker-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| \| [Seasonal Worker](https://www.gov.uk/seasonal-worker-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| \| [Religious Worker](https://www.gov.uk/religious-worker-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| ### Work visas you can apply for without a job offer \| \| \| \| \|---\|---\|---\| \| Category \| Processing time \| \| \| [Global Talent](https://www.gov.uk/global-talent) \| 3 weeks \| \| \| [Youth Mobility Scheme](https://www.gov.uk/youth-mobility) \| 3 weeks \| \| \| [India Young Professionals Scheme visa](https://www.gov.uk/india-young-professionals-scheme-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| \| [UK Ancestry](https://www.gov.uk/ancestry-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| \| [High Potential Individual (HPI)](https://www.gov.uk/high-potential-individual-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| ### Work visas to start a business \| \| \| \| \|---\|---\|---\| \| Category \| Processing time \| \| \| [Innovator Founder](https://www.gov.uk/innovator-founder-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| \| [Start-up](https://www.gov.uk/start-up-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| ### Work visas for an overseas employer \| \| \| \| \|---\|---\|---\| \| Category \| Processing time \| \| \| [Overseas Domestic Worker](https://www.gov.uk/overseas-domestic-worker-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| \| [Graduate Trainee](https://www.gov.uk/graduate-trainee-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| \| [Secondment Worker](https://www.gov.uk/secondment-worker-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| \| [Senior or Specialist Worker](https://www.gov.uk/senior-specialist-worker-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| \| [Representative of an Overseas Business](https://www.gov.uk/representative-overseas-business) \| 3 weeks \| \| \| [Service Supplier](https://www.gov.uk/service-supplier-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| \| [UK Expansion Worker](https://www.gov.uk/uk-expansion-worker-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| ## Other visas and permits \| \| \| \| \|---\|---\|---\| \| Category \| Processing time \| \| \| [British National (Overseas)](https://www.gov.uk/british-national-overseas-bno-visa) \| 12 weeks \| \| \| [International Sportsperson](https://www.gov.uk/sportsperson-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| \| [Minister of Religion](https://www.gov.uk/minister-of-religion-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| \| [Scale-up Worker](https://www.gov.uk/scale-up-worker-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| ## Updates to this page Published 22 May 2023 Last updated 22 October 2025 [\+ show all updates](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/visa-processing-times-applications-outside-the-uk#full-history) 1. 22 October 2025 'When your application processing time ends' section has been updated to clarify that you should only return to a visa application centre when you are contacted, if you left your passport there. 2. 21 July 2025 Added a link to the online service which tells you when you can expect a decision on your application. 3. 15 July 2025 Removed the section on applications made in the USA, because they now follow the same process as applications made in other countries. 4. 20 May 2025 Added information about processing times if you pay for a faster decision. 5. 8 April 2025 Added clarification that processing times do not include bank holidays. 6. 12 February 2025 Added information on when your visa application may take longer to process. 7. 26 November 2024 Link to processing times explanatory video added. 8. 2 September 2024 Updated family visa processing times. 9. 9 July 2024 Updated to clarify contact process in the following sections: 'When your application processing time ends' and 'When you might wait longer'. 10. 9 May 2024 Processing time and service standard for Permitted Paid Engagement removed, as it's now included as part of the Standard Visitor visa application. 11. 19 February 2024 Amended processing time on the Ukraine visas. 12. 8 September 2023 Clarified the information about short term study visas. 13. 26 June 2023 Updated family visa processing times structure. 14. 22 May 2023 First published. ## Sign up for emails or print this page Print this page [Contents](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/visa-processing-times-applications-outside-the-uk#contents) ## Related content ### Collection - [Visa processing times](https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/visa-processing-times) ## Explore the topic - [What you need to do](https://www.gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration/what-you-need-to-do) ## Is this page useful? - [Maybe](https://www.gov.uk/contact/govuk) - Yes this page is useful - No this page is not useful Thank you for your feedback Report a problem with this page ## Help us improve GOV.UK To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. 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Readable Markdown	## When to apply for a visa You should allow enough time before you make a visa application. You are not required to book any travel before you apply or before a decision is made on your application. You will only receive a [refund of your application fee](https://www.gov.uk/cancel-visa) if we have not started to process your application. You may be able [to pay for a faster decision](https://www.gov.uk/faster-decision-visa-settlement) on a visa application. ## When your application processing time starts UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) starts processing your application once you either: - verify your identity and submit your documents and application online using the [UK Immigration: ID Check app](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/using-the-uk-immigration-id-check-app). We’ll tell you if you can use this - attend your appointment at a [visa application centre (VAC)](https://www.gov.uk/find-a-visa-application-centre) to provide your fingerprints and a photograph (biometric information) ## When your application processing time ends You’ll get a letter or email to let you know that a [decision has been made on your application](https://www.gov.uk/apply-to-come-to-the-uk/getting-a-decision-on-your-application). If you attended a VAC and left your passport, you should not return to the VAC until you have been contacted. You do not need to contact UKVI to track your application if you’ve already made a visa application and it is still within the current processing times. We will not be able to provide information on the status of your application. [Watch our video on understanding processing times](https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/visa-processing-times/processing-times-video) ## When you might wait longer Your visa application may take longer to process if, for example: - the information in your application is not accurate or requires further consideration - you need to provide further evidence, for example evidence of funds - your supporting documents need to be verified - you need to attend an interview - further information is required on your personal circumstances (for example if you have a criminal conviction) - UKVI is experiencing increased visa demand - there is an unexpected technical outage affecting visa systems You will be contacted within the current processing times if your application will take longer. If your application has taken longer than the current processing times and you haven’t been contacted by UKVI about your visa application, you should [contact UKVI](https://www.gov.uk/contact-ukvi-inside-outside-uk). ## Current processing times The processing times listed below are based on the current volume of visa applications. The processing times are different if you paid for a [faster decision](https://www.gov.uk/faster-decision-visa-settlement). Processing times are based on the UK working week (Monday to Friday) and include public holidays in the UK. They do not include public holidays in other countries. All UK processing times are measured against agreed [customer service standards](https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/customer-service-standards). If you applied to visit, study or work in the UK, use the online service to [check your visa processing time](https://www.gov.uk/check-visa-processing-time). This will tell you when you can expect a decision. ## Visit visas \| Category \| Processing time \| \|---\|---\| \| [Standard Visitor](https://www.gov.uk/standard-visitor) \| 3 weeks \| \| [Marriage Visitor](https://www.gov.uk/marriage-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| [Chinese tour group](https://www.gov.uk/ads-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| [Transit](https://www.gov.uk/transit-visa) \| 3 weeks \| ## Study visas \| Category \| Processing time \| \|---\|---\| \| [Student](https://www.gov.uk/student-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| [Child Student](https://www.gov.uk/child-study-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| [Study English in the UK: Short-term student (6 to 11 month English language courses)](https://www.gov.uk/visa-to-study-english) \| 3 weeks \| ## Family visas \| \| \| \| \|---\|---\|---\| \| Category \| Processing time \| \| \| [Partner or spouse](https://www.gov.uk/uk-family-visa/partner-spouse) \| 12 weeks \| \| \| [Parent](https://www.gov.uk/uk-family-visa/parent) \| 12 weeks \| \| \| [Child](https://www.gov.uk/uk-family-visa/child) \| 12 weeks \| \| \| [Adult coming to be cared for by a relative](https://www.gov.uk/uk-family-visa/adult-dependent-relative) \| 12 weeks \| \| ## Ukraine visas \| Category \| Processing time \| \|---\|---\| \| [Homes for Ukraine](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-a-visa-under-the-ukraine-sponsorship-scheme) \| 3 weeks \| ## Work visas ### Popular work visas \| \| \| \| \|---\|---\|---\| \| Category \| Processing time \| \| \| [Skilled Worker](https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| \| [Health and Care Worker](https://www.gov.uk/health-care-worker-visa/your-job) \| 3 weeks \| \| ### Temporary work visas \| \| \| \| \|---\|---\|---\| \| Category \| Processing time \| \| \| [Government Authorised Exchange](https://www.gov.uk/government-authorised-exchange) \| 3 weeks \| \| \| [Charity Worker](https://www.gov.uk/temporary-worker-charity-worker-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| \| [Creative Worker](https://www.gov.uk/creative-worker-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| \| [International Agreement](https://www.gov.uk/international-agreement-worker-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| \| [Seasonal Worker](https://www.gov.uk/seasonal-worker-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| \| [Religious Worker](https://www.gov.uk/religious-worker-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| ### Work visas you can apply for without a job offer \| \| \| \| \|---\|---\|---\| \| Category \| Processing time \| \| \| [Global Talent](https://www.gov.uk/global-talent) \| 3 weeks \| \| \| [Youth Mobility Scheme](https://www.gov.uk/youth-mobility) \| 3 weeks \| \| \| [India Young Professionals Scheme visa](https://www.gov.uk/india-young-professionals-scheme-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| \| [UK Ancestry](https://www.gov.uk/ancestry-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| \| [High Potential Individual (HPI)](https://www.gov.uk/high-potential-individual-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| ### Work visas to start a business \| \| \| \| \|---\|---\|---\| \| Category \| Processing time \| \| \| [Innovator Founder](https://www.gov.uk/innovator-founder-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| \| [Start-up](https://www.gov.uk/start-up-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| ### Work visas for an overseas employer \| \| \| \| \|---\|---\|---\| \| Category \| Processing time \| \| \| [Overseas Domestic Worker](https://www.gov.uk/overseas-domestic-worker-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| \| [Graduate Trainee](https://www.gov.uk/graduate-trainee-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| \| [Secondment Worker](https://www.gov.uk/secondment-worker-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| \| [Senior or Specialist Worker](https://www.gov.uk/senior-specialist-worker-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| \| [Representative of an Overseas Business](https://www.gov.uk/representative-overseas-business) \| 3 weeks \| \| \| [Service Supplier](https://www.gov.uk/service-supplier-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| \| [UK Expansion Worker](https://www.gov.uk/uk-expansion-worker-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| ## Other visas and permits \| \| \| \| \|---\|---\|---\| \| Category \| Processing time \| \| \| [British National (Overseas)](https://www.gov.uk/british-national-overseas-bno-visa) \| 12 weeks \| \| \| [International Sportsperson](https://www.gov.uk/sportsperson-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| \| [Minister of Religion](https://www.gov.uk/minister-of-religion-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| \| [Scale-up Worker](https://www.gov.uk/scale-up-worker-visa) \| 3 weeks \| \| Published 22 May 2023 Last updated 22 October 2025 [show all updates](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/visa-processing-times-applications-outside-the-uk#full-history) 1. 22 October 2025 'When your application processing time ends' section has been updated to clarify that you should only return to a visa application centre when you are contacted, if you left your passport there. 2. 21 July 2025 Added a link to the online service which tells you when you can expect a decision on your application. 3. 15 July 2025 Removed the section on applications made in the USA, because they now follow the same process as applications made in other countries. 4. 20 May 2025 Added information about processing times if you pay for a faster decision. 5. 8 April 2025 Added clarification that processing times do not include bank holidays. 6. 12 February 2025 Added information on when your visa application may take longer to process. 7. 26 November 2024 Link to processing times explanatory video added. 8. 2 September 2024 Updated family visa processing times. 9. 9 July 2024 Updated to clarify contact process in the following sections: 'When your application processing time ends' and 'When you might wait longer'. 10. 9 May 2024 Processing time and service standard for Permitted Paid Engagement removed, as it's now included as part of the Standard Visitor visa application. 11. 19 February 2024 Amended processing time on the Ukraine visas. 12. 8 September 2023 Clarified the information about short term study visas. 13. 26 June 2023 Updated family visa processing times structure. 14. 22 May 2023 First published.
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