How long you'll wait for a decision depends on where you're applying from and whether you pay for a faster service. Here is a plain-English breakdown of all the options.
| Service | Where you're applying from | Typical decision time | Extra cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | Outside the UK | ~3 weeks (15 working days) | None |
| Priority | Outside the UK | ~5 working days | ~£500 |
| Super-priority | Outside the UK | Next working day | ~£1,000 |
| Standard | Inside the UK (switch/extend) | ~8 weeks | None |
| Priority | Inside the UK (switch/extend) | ~5 working days | ~£500 |
| Super-priority | Inside the UK (switch/extend) | Next working day | ~£1,000 |
These are typical times, not guarantees. UKVI can take longer during peak periods or if they need further information. Always check the latest service standards on GOV.UK.
If you are applying for your first Skilled Worker visa from your home country or a third country, the standard processing time is around 3 weeks (15 working days) from the date UKVI receives your biometric information.
You can apply up to 3 months before your intended start date in the UK. This means you can submit early and have plenty of time for the decision to arrive before you need to travel.
If you are already in the UK and switching from another visa route, or extending your existing Skilled Worker visa, the standard processing time is longer — typically around 8 weeks.
If you apply to extend or switch before your current visa expires, you are protected by "3C leave." This allows you to continue living and working in the UK on the same conditions as your previous visa while your application is being decided — even if your original visa expires during this time.
If you need a faster decision — for example, because of a tight start date — you can pay for a premium service.
Available for most applications both inside and outside the UK. You pay an additional fee of approximately £500 at the time of application. Decisions are typically made within 5 working days of biometrics being submitted.
Available for applications made inside the UK and at selected visa application centres abroad. You pay approximately £1,000 extra. Decisions are typically made by the end of the next working day after biometrics.
Availability of priority and super-priority services can be suspended at any time due to high demand. Check current availability when you apply. If a service was available when you paid but your application is delayed beyond the stated time, you may be entitled to a refund of the premium.
Once a decision is made:
UKVI does not provide a live tracking service in the traditional sense. However, you can: