Visa processing delays to be expected

IMPACT – MEDIUM

The Home Office has published updated processing times for certain visas.

Key Points:

• Standard visitor visa. Standard visitor visa applications for those traveling to the U.K. for business purposes are taking an average of six weeks to be processed instead of three weeks after the appointment at the visa application center. Priority services may be available for a quicker turnaround.
• Transit visas. Transit visa applications are taking an average of six weeks to be processed instead of three weeks after the appointment at the visa application center.
• Study visas. Those who have applied for short-term study, student or child student visas should expect wait times of three weeks or longer to receive their visa after attending the biometrics appointment or use the ID Check app.
• Work visas. Standard work visa applications are taking considerably longer than the expected. Applicants should expect wait times of three weeks or longer to receive their visa. Individuals applying for a Turkish Business Person visa should expect to receive a decision on their application within 12 weeks.
• Family visas. Individuals should receive a decision for a family visa within 24 weeks instead of 12 weeks after attending the biometrics appointment.

Additional Information: The Home Office is currently prioritizing Ukraine visa scheme applications. Priority and super priority services have been temporarily suspended for work, study and family visa applications. Visa applicants are reminded that processing times begin when applicants attend their biometrics appointment or when applicants’ identities are confirmed using the U.K. Immigration: ID Check app. A full list of wait times for other visa types is available here.

BAL Analysis: The Home Office is seeing an increase of visa applications due to the lifting of COVID-19 travel restrictions around the world and European nationals needing to apply for visas as a result of Brexit. Foreign nationals intending to travel to the U.K. should apply for their required visa as soon as possible to avoid delays and complications.

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

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