Quick Guide to UK Visa Processing Time: A Complete Overview

Whether you are visiting to explore, study, or work, the UK welcomes you with open arms. Its rich history, culture, and attractions assure you a good time.

For those looking to build a living, the UK offers ample growth opportunities to flourish.

The country welcomed more than 37 million foreign tourists in 2023.

With its quaint countryside and vibrant cities, you can expect to have the time of your life while visiting the UK!

Before you plan the entire trip, make sure to know everything about the UK visa procedure, including the application process, types of visas, and UK visa processing time.

Here’s everything to know about the processing time for a UK visa for Indians:

UK Visa Processing Time From India

The UK visa processing time depends on the type of visa you are applying for, the waitlist and other factors such as additional security checks.

In case the authorities find some problems with your application, it might take longer to process your UK visa.

The average UK visa processing time is 3 weeks. It starts once your verification and biometrics are completed and submitted at the Visa Application Centre.

a. Visitor Visa

A visitor visa allows you entry to the UK for the purpose of tourism, short stays or transit through the country.

The estimated processing time for a UK visitor visa is approximately 3 weeks.

b. Work Visa

Those looking forward to working in the UK need to apply for a work visa in order to be able to legally work in the country.

The estimated processing time for a UK work visa is approximately 3 weeks.

c. Student Visa

Indian students aiming to study in the UK at recognized institutions should apply for a student visa.

The estimated processing time for a UK student visa is approximately 3 weeks.

d. Family Visa

Indians who have relatives in the UK must apply for a family visa in order to visit them there. The UK visa processing time for family visas is around 12-24 weeks.

UK Visa Processing Time After Biometrics

Once you are done with your biometrics, it can take from a few weeks up to 8 weeks to process your UK visa.

On average, the UK visa processing time after biometrics is about 4-6 weeks.

Factors that affect the UK visa Processing Time

There are several reasons that your visa processing might be taking longer than usual. Here are some possible causes for the delay:

A large volume of applications at the visa application center may be causing a delay in the processing time.
Incomplete or inaccurate visa applications can be delayed or even rejected due to discrepancies.
Additional security checks may take longer to process the application.
Discrepancies with the biometric data may lead to delay in the visa process.
Applicants may also cause delays in reverting to the authorities while addressing the issues with their applications.
It might take longer to process your UK visa in case your documents need to be verified, you may need to be called for an interview or additional information is required at your end.

How to track your UK visa processing time from India

In case your UK visa application is taking longer to process, you will be contacted by UKVI within the current processing times.

However, if you have not been contacted by the authorities regarding the delay, you should contact them on the official website of UKVI for further communication.

To check your visa status, log in to your UKVI account and provide all the required details.

However, if your application is under current processing time, the UKVI portal will not be able to provide the status of your application.

How Long is the Typical Processing Time?

As per the official website of the government of the UK, it should take about 3 weeks for a UK visa to process.

Once the processing time ends, you will receive a letter or an email with the decision made upon your application.

Step-by-Step UK Visa Application Process

Follow these steps to apply for your UK visa from India:

Determine the type of visa required to apply as per the purpose of your visit.
Visit the UKVI website and create an account. Log in with your credentials to fill out the online application form.
Gather the documents required to support your application.
Book an appointment at the visa application centre as per the suitable time slot.
Pay the required visa fee and submit your application.
Sit back as your UK visa application is being processed by the authorities.

Tips to Avoid Delays in Your Visa Application

Here are some tips to ensure there are no delays with your UK visa application process:

Fill in the correct information in your visa application to avoid any discrepancies or confusion.
Provide all the necessary documents to make a legitimate case for your application.
Make sure to schedule your appointment at the VAC on time to avoid any delays.
Apply for your visa on time.
Keep a regular check on your visa application status.
Keep a check on the immigration policies as soon as you decide to travel.