UKVI Standard 15 Working Days / Priority / Super Priority Services
UK Visa Processing Times 2026: All Categories Guide
Complete guide to UK visa decision timescales: standard 15 working days, Priority 5 days, Super Priority next-working-day, and settlement/ILR timescales.
Overview
UKVI aims to decide most in-country applications within 8 weeks (standard service). Outside UK, visitor visas typically take 15 working days; settlement applications take 6 months. Priority services cost £500 (5 working days) and Super Priority costs £800 (next working day decision). UKVI publishes live processing times on GOV.UK, updated weekly.
Key Facts & Statutory Reference
| Item | Detail | Statutory / Official Source |
|---|---|---|
| Visitor Visa (Standard) | 15 working days (overseas) | GOV.UK UKVI Processing Times |
| Skilled Worker (Standard) | Up to 8 weeks (in-country) | GOV.UK UKVI Processing Times |
| Priority Service | 5 working days — £500 premium | UKVI Priority Guidance |
| Super Priority Service | Next working day — £800 premium | UKVI Super Priority Guidance |
| ILR / Settlement | Up to 6 months (standard) | GOV.UK ILR Guidance |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
UKVI publishes live processing time statistics at gov.uk/check-uk-visa, updated weekly. Times vary by application type, country of application, and whether Priority service was selected.
No. You must not travel outside the UK while an in-country visa application or ILR application is pending. Doing so will result in your application being treated as withdrawn.