If you are outside the UK, you will typically receive a decision on your visa within 3 weeks after applying for a UK Work Visa, proving your identity, and submitting your documents via your appointment. (8 weeks if you’re applying from within the United Kingdom).
It is important to allow yourself enough time to apply and receive your decision before you are due to travel. You will have to book and attend an appointment before your visa even begins processing, Visa appointments are subject to Embassy availability but they typically have to be booked about a month in advance, however since this can vary so much depending the embassy in particular we advise applying as far in advance as you can.
What can affect the time it takes to get a UK Worker Visa
Many things can change how long it takes to get a Skilled Worker Visa in the UK, such as:
- Visa type: Different work Visas have different processing times. For example, temporary work visas are often processed faster than Skilled Worker visas.
- The Home Office’s workload: Many applications for work permits are submitted to the Home Office so that processing periods can change based on workload.
- Unique circumstances: The applicant’s unique circumstances, such as their nationality, criminal history, and the complexity of their case, can affect the processing time.
Processing Periods for UK Work Visa Types
Different work permit kinds have varying processing times. For each category, the following processing times are typical:
Entrepreneur visa (Closed to new applicants)
- Regular processing takes 2 to 4 weeks.
- Priority processing takes 5 working days.
- Super-priority processing takes 24 hours.
Skilled Worker visa
- Ordinary processing takes 2 to 8 weeks.
- Priority processing takes 5 working days.
- Super priority processing takes 24 hours.
Temporary Worker visa
- Regular processing takes 2 to 4 weeks.
- Priority processing takes 5 working days.
- Super-priority processing takes 24 hours.
Quick Processing
Applicants can speed up the procedure by paying for priority or super-priority processing. These services are chargeable extras that promise quicker processing times. Different fees apply for processing in priority and super-priority, depending on the type of permit.
Processing times for UK work visas might vary based on the permit type, the Home Office workload, and the applicant’s unique circumstances. It might take a few weeks to many months before processing is complete.
People also asked
How do I track my worker visa UK?
You can track the progress of your out-of-country UK visa application by calling UKVI on +44 (0)300 790 6268 and selecting option 1.
Is there an interview for a UK Work visa?
Yes you are required to attend a face-to-face interview and submit biometrics for all UK Visas
Can I extend my Worker visa?
This is dependent on what worker visa you have and how long you have already been in the UK on that visa. Most UK Worker Visas have a limit on how long they can last but are eligible for any number of extensions until the limit is reached.
