What Is the Processing Time for a UK Spouse Visa? A Closer Look

By Ernestina Narh, Immigration Lawyer

Are you wondering what the processing time is on average for a UK spouse visa?

Being uncertain of the standing of your right to remain within the UK can be trying and taxing. Especially if you’ve got a life-and loved ones-living here. If you’ve got a spouse who’s currently living in the UK, and you’re looking to be able to stay and work there with them, then one of the best routes you can take will be to try to obtain a UK spouse visa.

With Brexit, COVID, and the disruptions they’ve caused, you may be wondering what this process looks like and whether it’s been affected at all. This guide will take you through the process and what the visa timeline usually is. Read on for everything you need to know.

Applying for Spouse Visas: The Process

To apply for a UK spouse visa, you’ll need to have documents ready to submit. You’ll need proof of either a marriage or having cohabited with your spouse for at least 2 years. You need to have proof of adequate accommodation as well as proof of the ability to financially support yourself.

You’ll also need to meet certain English language requirements. Finally, you will need to be able to demonstrate your intention to make the UK your home.

For a visa application made outside the UK, the visa fee is £1523 and the Immigration Health Surcharge is £1872. If you are applying from the UK, the visa fee is £1033 and the Immigration Health Surcharge is £1560. You also have the option of opting to pay for priority service for an additional fee-more on this later.

The UK Spouse Visa Timeline

Because of logistical and administrative disruptions caused by COVID, the UK spouse visa processing timeline in 2022 could be a little bit longer compared to pre-COVID years. Let’s see what that timeline looks like.

In normal circumstances, the processing time for a spouse visa is up to 90 working days for standard applications. Straightforward applications made within the UK should take around 60 working days. A similar visa application made outside the UK might take up to 90 working days.

How long your application takes will depend on how complex your case is and how many applications the Home Office is handling at the time of your application. If you want to ensure a speedy decision, however, there are steps you can take.

You have the option of paying for the priority or super-priority service. With the priority service, you can have a decision in as few as five days. With the super-priority service, you’re usually looking at a decision within 24 hours.

Secure Your Spouse Visa ASAP

If you satisfy all the requirements for a UK spouse visa, then you shouldn’t delay your application. With disruptions from different sources, you want to give yourself as much time as possible. In some cases, you could even have the peace of mind of a valid visa within 24 hours.

If you’re currently in the process of applying for a spouse visa, we’d be happy to assist you. Get in touch with a member of our office today to discuss your case.

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