What is the Standard UK Spouse Visa Processing Time?

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Posted 2024-12-19 09:18:53

The standard processing time for a UK Spouse Visa depend on where you apply from:

Applications submitted from outside the UK: You’ll usually get a decision within 12 weeks.
Applications submitted from inside the UK: The standard processing time is usually 8 weeks if you meet the financial requirements and English language requirements.

However, if you don't meet these requirements, the processing time could take approximately 12 months.

In addition to standard processing, there are also expedited services available for an additional fee:

1. Priority Visa Service:

The fee for this service is £500, and it's available to those applying from outside the UK. The sources do not specify how much faster a decision would be made using this service, only that it can get you a faster decision.

2. Priority Service:

This service is available for applications submitted from within the UK, and it usually provides a decision within 30 working days. Please note, that a 5-day Priority Service is not available.

3. Super Priority Service:

This service is available for in-country applications for extensions and settlement applications, and it offers a decision within 24 hours.

However, it is the most expensive option. The sources indicate it costs an extra £800.

You can apply for a Spouse Visa from within the UK if you are already in the UK on a visa that is valid for more than six months. You may be able to switch to a spouse visa if you are currently in the UK on a fiance visa, work visa, or student visa valid for more than six months.

UK immigration rules are subject to change. If you require advice specific to your UK Spouse Visa circumstances, reach out to our UK Spouse Visa Consultant.

However, if you are already in the UK and were initially admitted for less than six months — such as a visitor or prospective student — you cannot switch to a Spouse Visa.

If your application is successful, you'll be issued a biometric residence permit for a period of 33 months if applying from outside the UK, or 30 months if applying from within the UK.

You will then need to apply for an extension before the expiry of this initial grant. This extension can be for an additional 30 months, which would make your total time in the UK under this visa up to 5 years.

After 5 years in the UK with a Spouse visa, you become eligible to apply for indefinite leave to remain, also known as settlement.