Navigating the intricacies of UK visa processing time after biometrics in 2023 can be daunting. This guide offers an in-depth look into the processing times of various visa categories for 2023, ensuring applicants and their representatives have the insights needed for effective planning and understanding. Dive into each section, from visit visas to settlement applications, and arm yourself with up-to-date information for your UK journey.
Table of Contents
1. UK Visit Visas
UK Visa Processing Time after Biometrics 2023 for Visitor Visas
Standard Visitor Visa:
Individuals aiming for the Standard Visitor visa in 2023 can expect a visa processing time after biometrics of 8 weeks if they’re applying within the UK. On the other hand, the waiting period is 3 weeks for those applying from outside the UK.
Furthermore, there are expedited options available for standard visitor visa applicants. The priority service aims to process the visa within 5 working days after the submission of biometrics. The super-priority service, on the other hand, typically offers a decision by the end of the next working day following biometric submission.
Please remember, these timelines are approximate and actual processing times can vary.
Marriage Visitor Visa:
The Marriage Visitor visa in 2023 is not available for individuals applying from within the UK. However, for those submitting their applications from outside the UK, the processing time after biometrics is 3 weeks.
Permitted Paid Engagement Visa:
In 2023, the Permitted Paid Engagement visa isn’t accessible for those within the UK. Yet, for applicants from abroad, the visa processing time after biometrics is 3 weeks.
Visitor in Transit Visa:
The Visitor in Transit visa in 2023 is not available for applications made inside the UK. For those outside the UK wishing to apply, the visa processing time after biometrics stands at 3 weeks.
Direct Airside Transit Visa:
For those considering the Direct Airside Transit visa in 2023, it’s essential to note that it’s not available for applications made from inside the UK. For individuals applying from outside the UK, the visa processing time after biometrics is 3 weeks.
Visit the UK in a Chinese Tour Group Visa:
This specific visa, for those intending to visit the UK in a Chinese tour group in 2023, isn’t an option for those already in the UK. However, for applicants outside the UK, they can expect a processing time of 3 weeks after biometrics.
2. Family Visas
UK Visa Processing Time After Biometrics 2023 for Family Visas
Adult Coming to be Cared for by a Relative Visa:
For adults intending to come to the UK to be cared for by a relative in 2023, the visa processing time after biometrics is 8 weeks if applying from within the UK. For adult dependent visa applications from outside the UK, the wait time is notably longer, extending to 24 weeks.
Child Visa:
In the case of the Child visa category in 2023, individuals applying from within the UK can anticipate a visa processing time after biometrics of 8 weeks. However, for those making their applications from abroad, the processing duration is set at 24 weeks.
Parent Visa:
Parents applying for a visa to come to the UK in 2023 face an 8-week visa processing time after biometrics if they are applying from within the country. But, if the parent of a British child application is made from outside the UK, the processing period stretches to 24 weeks.
UK Spouse Visa Processing Time after Biometrics 2023
In 2023, the processing time for Partner or Spouse visa extensions after biometrics is expected to be around 8 weeks for applications made within the UK. For applications submitted from outside the UK, the standard wait time for a spouse visa is approximately 24 weeks.
For applicants within the UK, it’s important to note that the standard priority service, which generally reduces processing times, is typically not available. However, they can opt for the Super Priority Visa Service. This service aims to provide a decision by the end of the next working day after the submission of biometrics.
For those applying from outside the UK, the priority service seeks to process applications within about 30 working days (or 6 weeks) from the day biometrics are submitted. This represents a significant reduction compared to the standard processing time of up to 24 weeks.
Please remember that these are estimated timelines and the actual processing times can vary. Factors influencing these timelines can include the volume of applications at a given time, the correctness and completeness of the documents provided, and the complexity of the individual application.
Family Reunion Visa:
The Family Reunion visa in 2023 does not accommodate applications from within the UK. For those applying from outside the UK, the visa processing time after biometrics is set at 60 days.
Private Life Visa:
For 2023, it’s important to note that the Private Life visa does not have specified processing times for applications both inside and outside the UK.
3. Student and Child Student Visa Applications
UK Visa Processing Time After Biometrics 2023 for Student and Child Student Visa Applications
Child Student Visa:
In 2023, for the Child Student visa category, the UK visa processing time after biometrics is 8 weeks for applications made from within the UK. For those applying from outside the UK, the processing time is 3 weeks.
UK Student Visa Processing Time after Biometrics 2023
In 2023, those applying for a UK Student visa can anticipate a processing time of 8 weeks following biometric submission when applying from within the UK. For applications submitted from outside the UK, the processing time is typically 3 weeks.
It’s worth noting that there are options to expedite this process. The priority service aims to process the student visa within 5 working days after the submission of biometrics. Additionally, the super-priority service typically offers a decision by the end of the next working day following biometric submission.
Study English in the UK (Short-term Study Visa):
For those keen on studying English in the UK under the Short-term Study visa in 2023, it’s worth noting that applications from within the UK are not catered for this visa category. However, for applications made outside the UK, the visa processing time after biometrics is 3 weeks.
Get Expert Guidance for All Types of UK Visa and Immigration Applications, Reapplications, Refusals, and Appeals.
4. Long-term Work Visa Applications
UK Visa Processing Time after Biometrics 2023 for long-term work visa applications
Health and Care Worker Visa:
The UK visa processing time after biometrics 2023 for the Health and Care Worker visa, whether applied from inside or outside the UK, is 3 weeks.
International Sportsperson Visa:
For those applying within the UK, the visa processing time after biometrics 2023 for the International Sportsperson visa is 8 weeks. However, if you’re applying from outside the UK, it’s 3 weeks.
Minister of Religion (T2) Visa:
The visa processing time after biometrics 2023 for the Minister of Religion (T2) visa is 8 weeks if you’re inside the UK, and 3 weeks if you’re applying from abroad.
Scale-up Worker Visa:
If you’re looking to get a Scale-up Worker visa in 2023, expect the processing time after biometrics to be 8 weeks if you’re applying from within the UK. From outside the UK, it’s a quicker 3 weeks.
UK Skilled Worker Visa Processing Time after Biometrics 2023
In 2023, the processing time for the Skilled Worker visa after submission of biometrics is typically 8 weeks for those applying from within the UK. However, this timeframe shortens to 3 weeks for applications submitted from outside the UK.
Importantly, there are options to expedite this process. The priority service aims to make a decision on the Skilled Worker visa application within 5 working days after biometric information has been submitted. For an even quicker response, the super-priority service aims to provide a decision by the end of the next working day following the submission of biometrics.
Senior/Specialist Worker (Global Business Mobility) Visa:
The 2023 processing time after biometrics for the Senior or Specialist Worker visa under the Global Business Mobility category is 8 weeks inside the UK and 3 weeks if you’re applying from outside the country.
5. Short-term Work Visa Applications
UK Visa Processing Time after Biometrics 2023 for Short-term Work Visa Applications
Charity Worker Visa (Temporary Work):
For those applying within the UK, the visa processing time after biometrics 2023 for the Charity Worker visa is 8 weeks. However, if you’re applying from outside the UK, it’s 3 weeks.
Creative Worker Visa (Temporary Work):
The visa processing time after biometrics 2023 for the Creative Worker visa is 8 weeks if you’re inside the UK, and 3 weeks if you’re applying from abroad.
Government Authorised Exchange Visa (Temporary Work):
If you’re looking to get a Government Authorised Exchange visa in 2023, expect the processing time after biometrics to be 8 weeks if you’re applying from within the UK. From outside the UK, it’s a quicker 3 weeks.
Graduate Visa:
The Graduate visa processing time after biometrics in 2023 is 8 weeks for those in the UK. However, this visa isn’t available for applications from outside the UK.
Graduate Trainee Visa (Global Business Mobility):
The 2023 processing time after biometrics for the Graduate Trainee visa under the Global Business Mobility category is 3 weeks if you’re applying from outside the UK. This visa isn’t available for applications within the UK.
Senior or Specialist Worker Visa (Global Business Mobility):
For those applying within the UK, the visa processing time after biometrics 2023 for the Senior or Specialist Worker visa is 8 weeks. For applications from outside the UK, it’s 3 weeks.
Secondment Worker Visa (Global Business Mobility):
The UK visa processing time after biometrics 2023 for the Secondment Worker visa, whether applied from inside or outside the UK, is 3 weeks.
Service Supplier Visa (Global Business Mobility):
If you’re inside the UK, the visa processing time after biometrics 2023 for the Service Supplier visa is 8 weeks. If you’re applying from abroad, it’s 3 weeks.
UK Expansion Worker Visa (Global Business Mobility):
For applications made within the UK, the visa processing time after biometrics 2023 for the UK Expansion Worker visa is 8 weeks. From outside the UK, it’s 3 weeks.
High Potential Individual (HPI) Visa:
The visa processing time after biometrics 2023 for the High Potential Individual visa is 8 weeks if you’re inside the UK, and 3 weeks if you’re applying from abroad.
International Agreement Visa (Temporary Work):
For the International Agreement visa in 2023, anticipate the processing time after biometrics to be 8 weeks inside the UK and 3 weeks if you’re applying from outside the country.
Religious Worker Visa (Temporary Work):
Applicants within the UK can expect a visa processing time after biometrics of 8 weeks in 2023 for the Religious Worker visa. For those outside the UK, it’s 3 weeks.
Seasonal Worker Visa (Temporary Work):
In 2023, the Seasonal Worker visa is not available for applications made within the UK. However, if you’re applying from outside the UK, the processing time after biometrics is 3 weeks.
Youth Mobility Scheme Visa:
The Youth Mobility Scheme visa isn’t available for applications from inside the UK in 2023. If applying from outside the UK, the processing time after biometrics is 3 weeks.
6. Investor, Business Development and Talent Visa Applications.
UK Visa Processing Time after Biometrics 2023 for Investor, Business Development and Talent Visa Applications.
Entrepreneur Visa (Tier 1):
In 2023, those seeking the Entrepreneur visa (Tier 1) within the UK can expect a visa processing time after biometrics of 8 weeks. This visa category isn’t available for applications made from outside the UK.
Global Talent Visa:
For the Global Talent visa, the processing time after biometrics in 2023 is 8 weeks if you’re inside the UK. However, if you’re applying from outside the UK, it’s a quicker 3 weeks.
Innovator Founder Visa:
If you’re looking to get the Innovator Founder visa in 2023, the processing time after biometrics is 8 weeks if you’re applying from within the UK. For those applying from abroad, the wait is 3 weeks.
Investor Visa (Tier 1):
For the Investor visa (Tier 1) in 2023, those within the UK can anticipate a visa processing time after biometrics of 8 weeks. This visa type isn’t available for those applying from outside the UK.
Start-up Visa:
The UK visa processing time after biometrics 2023 for the Start-up visa is 3 weeks, regardless of whether the application is made from within or outside the UK.
7. Other Work Visas, Sponsor Licences and Exemption Applications.
UK Visa Processing Time After Biometrics 2023 for Other Work Visas, Sponsor Licences and Exemption Applications.
British National (Overseas) Visa:
For the British National (Overseas) visa in 2023, applicants can anticipate a visa processing time after biometrics of 12 weeks, regardless of whether they’re applying from inside or outside the UK.
Exempt Vignette:
In 2023, the Exempt vignette isn’t available for applications made within the UK. However, for those applying from outside the UK, the visa processing time after biometrics is 3 weeks.
Representative of an Overseas Business Visa:
Those seeking the Representative of an Overseas Business visa in 2023 can expect a processing time of 8 weeks after biometrics if applying within the UK. For applicants from outside the UK, the wait time is 3 weeks.
Turkish Businessperson Visa:
For the Turkish Businessperson visa in 2023, individuals within the UK are looking at a substantial processing time after biometrics of 6 months. This visa category isn’t available for applications from outside the UK.
Turkish Worker Visa:
Similarly, for the Turkish Worker visa in 2023, the processing time after biometrics is 6 months for those within the UK. Again, this visa type is not available for external applicants.
UK Ancestry Visa:
For those applying for a UK Ancestry visa in 2023, the visa processing time after biometrics is 8 weeks if you’re inside the UK. For those applying from abroad, the expected wait is 3 weeks.
8. Settlement Applications
UK Visa Processing Time After Biometrics 2023 for Settlement (ILR) Applications
Domestic Worker Visa (Settlement Applications):
For Domestic Workers applying for ILR in 2023, the processing time after biometrics is set at 6 months when initiating the application from within the UK. No provision exists for such applications from outside the UK.
Global Talent, Tier 1 Entrepreneur, or Investor Visa (Settlement Applications):
Applicants under the Global Talent, Tier 1 Entrepreneur, or Investor visa categories seeking ILR in 2023 can expect a processing time after biometrics of 6 months if applying from inside the UK. Settlement applications for this category from outside the UK are not entertained.
Long-Term Residents (Settlement Applications):
For individuals who have been living in the UK for 10 years or more and are applying for ILR, the 2023 processing time after biometrics is 6 months. No facilities exist for such applications from outside the UK.
Settlement Applications due to Deceased Partner or Relationship Ending Because of Domestic Violence:
Individuals applying for ILR under these circumstances in 2023 will face a processing duration of 6 months post-biometrics, with applications accepted only from within the UK.
Innovator Visa (Settlement Applications):
For Innovator visa holders aiming for ILR in 2023, the processing time after biometrics is 6 months when applying from inside the UK. This category does not entertain applications from outside the UK.
Family Settlement Applications:
Individuals wishing to obtain ILR to join a partner, parent, child, or another relative already settled in the UK can anticipate a processing time in 2023 of 6 months after biometrics. Applications are accepted only from within the UK.
Private Servant in a Diplomatic Household (Settlement Applications):
For those applying as a private servant in a diplomatic household, the ILR processing time in 2023 after biometrics is 6 months, exclusively from inside the UK.
Private Life Visa (Settlement Applications):
Individuals applying under the Private Life category for ILR in 2023 can expect a 6-month processing time after biometrics when applying from within the UK. Outside the UK applications are not entertained.
Refugee or Humanitarian Protection/Discretionary Leave (Settlement Applications):
Applicants under Refugee or Humanitarian Protection or those with Discretionary Leave status seeking ILR in 2023 face a 6-month processing duration after biometrics when applying from inside the UK. Outside the UK applications are not available.
Overseas Business Representative (Settlement Applications):
Representatives of overseas businesses targeting ILR in 2023 will find a processing time of 6 months after biometrics from within the UK. Applications from outside the UK aren’t entertained.
Scale-up Worker Visa (Settlement Applications):
For Scale-up Workers eyeing ILR in 2023, the processing period after biometrics is 6 months when applying within the UK. This visa category does not permit applications from outside the UK.
Served in the Armed Forces (Settlement Applications):
Former armed forces personnel applying for ILR in 2023 can anticipate a processing duration of 6 months after biometrics. Applications are accepted only from within the UK.
Tier 2, International Sportsperson, or Skilled Worker Visa (Settlement Applications):
Those applying under the Tier 2, International Sportsperson, or Skilled Worker visa categories for ILR in 2023 face a 6-month processing duration after biometrics. Applications must be made from within the UK.
Turkish Worker or Businessperson Visa (Settlement Applications):
Turkish workers or businesspeople seeking ILR in 2023 can expect a 6-month processing duration post-biometrics, with applications only entertained from within the UK.
UK Ancestry Visa (Settlement Applications):
For those applying under the UK Ancestry Visa category for ILR in 2023, the processing time after biometrics is 6 months. Applications can only be initiated from within the UK.
For further information and details, please refer to our post on Understanding ILR Processing Time in the UK: A 2023 Guide.
9. Delays in Processing
Potential Delays in UK Visa Processing Time after Biometrics in 2023
Despite the general timelines provided, both inside and outside of the UK, there may be instances where the visa processing time extends beyond the standard duration. These delays can be due to:
- Inaccurate or Incomplete Information: If the details in your application raise questions or are inaccurate, the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) may require additional time to verify the information.
- Additional Evidence Needed: In some cases, further documents, such as proof of funds, may need to be provided, extending the process.
- Supporting Document Verification: If UKVI decides to verify your supporting documents, this can add to the processing time.
- Interview Requirement: Certain applications might require an interview, adding an additional layer to the process.
- Personal Circumstances: If there’s something unique about your situation, such as a prior criminal conviction, it may necessitate a more extended review.
- High Visa Demand: Sometimes, UKVI experiences a surge in visa applications, causing potential delays.
Rest assured, if there’s any need for more details regarding your application, UKVI will contact you either via letter or email. It’s crucial to respond promptly and provide the necessary information to avoid further delays. Being prepared and aware of these potential issues ensures a smoother visa application journey.
For further information and details, please refer to Customer service standards.
10. FAQs
UK Visa Processing Time After Biometrics 2023 for Settlement (ILR) Applications
What does ‘processing time after biometrics’ mean?
This refers to the duration it takes for the UK Visa and Immigration Office to process and make a decision on your visa application after you’ve submitted your biometrics.
Why are biometrics necessary for the UK visa application?
Biometrics provide a unique identification (fingerprints and a photo) for each applicant. It ensures the security and integrity of the visa process.
How can I speed up my visa processing time?
While standard processing times are fixed, the UK does offer priority and super-priority services for certain visa categories that can expedite the process.
Do all visa categories have the same processing times?
No, processing times vary based on the visa category. Our guide breaks down the times for various categories for your convenience.
Is the visa processing time guaranteed?
While the UK Visa and Immigration Office aims to process within the stated times, some applications might take longer, especially if they’re complex or if there are missing documents.
What should I do if my visa application exceeds the typical processing time?
If your application takes longer than the usual processing time, consider checking its status online or getting in touch with the UKVI. However, remember that contacting them too frequently can cause delays.
How do I choose between standard, priority, and super-priority services?
The choice depends on your urgency. Priority and super-priority services come at a higher fee but ensure faster processing. Consider your travel plans, the purpose of your visit, and budget when deciding.
Are visa processing times the same across all UK Visa Application Centres?
While standard times are provided by the UK government, local factors, including operational capacities at specific centres, might influence the exact duration. Always check with your chosen centre for precise timings.
Can I apply for a visa while I’m in the UK on another visa?
In some cases, you can switch from one visa category to another without leaving the UK. However, eligibility criteria apply, and it’s essential to ensure you meet them before applying.
What should I do if my visa gets refused?
If your visa is refused, the decision letter will explain the reasons and whether you have the right to an administrative review or appeal. It’s advisable to consult with a legal representative in such cases.
What is UK Tier 2 visa processing time after biometrics in 2023?
The Tier 2 General visa has been replaced by skilled worker visa. In 2023, the UK skilled worker visa processing time after biometrics is usually 3 weeks or 15 working days from outside the UK. For applications from inside the UK the processing time is normally 8 weeks.
What is UK priority visa processing time after biometrics 2023?
For priority service, the UK Visas and Immigration department generally aims to make a decision within 5-7 working days after your biometric information is received. However, the exact processing time for a UK priority visa can vary depending on the specific type of visa, the country from which you’re applying, and other factors. Note that this is not a guarantee, and sometimes the process can take longer, especially during peak periods or if your case is complex. If additional checks are needed on your application, for example, the processing time might be longer.
What is UK super priority visa processing time after biometrics 2023?
The UK Super Priority Visa Service aims to process your visa application within 24 hours after your biometric information is submitted. This means that, in theory, you should receive a decision by the end of the next working day after providing your biometric information if your appointment is on a weekday. If your appointment is at the weekend or on a public holiday, you should get a decision by the end of the second working day. Please note that the Super Priority Visa Service does not guarantee that your visa application will be successful; it only speeds up the processing time.