Priority and Super Priority
visa services resume for
overseas applications
16 August 2022
Individuals applying for some types of UK visa from overseas will once again have the opportunity to pay for a faster decision on their application, as UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) has re-introduced Priority and Super Priority visa services for out-of-country applications.
Priority and Super Priority services have been suspended for out-of-country work, study and family visa applications since March 2022, whilst UKVI prioritised the processing of applications filed under the Ukraine visa schemes. The suspension has partly contributed towards widespread delays in the processing of UK visas, with many customers waiting double the standard processing time for a decision on their application with no options available to expedite their case.
However, new customers applying for work and study visas from 12 August 2022 will now be able to select these optional services for an additional cost, as part of their online journey.
Which applications can use Priority visa services?
UKVI has now reintroduced Priority services for new customers applying in the sponsored work routes (including Global Talent) and for students. Where available, new customers applying in these eligible routes will now have the option to select Priority and Super Priority appointments as part of their online journey. There will be no reduction in the volume of these appointments available.
Those applying for Visit visas can also make use of these services, although the volume of Priority appointments available for new visit visa applications continues to be reduced to enable UKVI to process more standard applications and gradually reduce the overall processing time for all customers. Appointment availability for Super Priority services for new visit applications will not be reduced, where this service is available.
At present, Priority and Super Priority visa services are still suspended for new family visa applications. UKVI will continue to monitor the situation and updates will be provided once these services are ready to be resumed.
Please note that Priority and Super Priority services are not available in all locations and customers are advised to check with their chosen application centre to find out if the service is on offer.
How much does it cost?
- Priority service costs £250 in addition to the visa application fee. UKVI aims to make a decision on Priority applications within 5 working days.
- Super Priority service costs £956 in addition to the visa application fee. UKVI aims to make a decision on Super Priority applications by the end of the next working day after your appointment, if your appointment is on a weekday, or 2 working days after your appointment, if your appointment is at the weekend or on a bank holiday.
Can I purchase Priority visa services retrospectively?
Unfortunately not. Priority and Super Priority visa services must be purchased online during the appointment booking process and cannot be purchased in the Visa Application Centre or retrospectively.
This means if you have already submitted your biometric information at a Visa Application Centre and you did not purchase a priority service when you booked your appointment, your application will be decided according to standard processing times.
Help with your UK visa application
If you are applying for a UK visa and require support with your application, Smith Stone Walters can help. To speak to a qualified immigration consultant, please contact us today.
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