Priority visa services reintroduced

IMPACT – MEDIUM

U.K. Visa and Immigration (UKVI) has reintroduced priority services for those applying for sponsored work and student visas from abroad.

Key Points:

• As of Aug. 12, foreign nationals who are applying for sponsored work visas or student visas can purchase Priority Visa (PV) and Super Priority Visa (SPV) services.
• PV and SPV are not available to those applying for Innovator, Start-up or High Potential Individual visas.
• Applicants must purchase PV and SPV services online during the appointment booking process; they will not be able to purchase PV and SPV services after the appointment booking process or at the Visa Application Center.
• PV and SPV services are not available at all UKVI locations; individuals should check this website for centers that are offering priority services.

Additional Information: Priority services for new family applications remains suspended; UKVI will provide an update when these services are resumed. More information regarding PV and SPV services is available here. Information on current visa processing times is available here.

BAL Analysis: U.K. authorities have reintroduced priority services work and student routes with intent to gradually reduce visa processing times for all applicants. Applicants should note that they will only be able to purchase priority services during the appointment booking process at participating UKVI locations.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group. For additional information, please contact berryapplemanleiden@bal.com.

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