Processing delays continue for Skilled Worker visa applications
As the Home Office continues to prioritise those visa applications submitted under the Ukraine humanitarian schemes, processing delays are still ongoing across other categories including work, study and family visas.
Smith Stone Walters previously reported on the significant delays affecting those applying for a UK visa from overseas, compounded by the fact that priority and super priority services have also been temporarily suspended for new work, study and family visa applications.
The Home Office is working hard to process applications as quickly as possible and return to the service standard. However, Smith Stone Walters would like to remind applicants and employers that it may take significantly longer than usual to receive a decision on your Skilled Worker visa application at the present time.
We spoke to some of our immigration caseworkers here at SSW to find out more about the current situation for Skilled Worker visa applications being submitted from inside and outside the UK.
Skilled Worker visa applications made inside the UK
Under standard processing times, those applying to extend or switch to a Skilled Worker visa from within the UK can usually expect to receive a decision within 8 weeks of the application date.
However, the ongoing delays mean we are currently observing some cases which have been waiting up to 14 or 15 weeks with no decision and no indication when the processing will be completed, and even more at around the 12-week mark.
Although priority and super priority services are currently suspended for applications made overseas, those applying to extend or switch to a Skilled Worker visa from within the UK can still make use of these services. However, even priority cases are taking in the region of 3 weeks rather than the usual 5 working days to complete, with no sign of a refund for the £500 fee paid for a faster decision.
In-country applicants are reminded that they must not travel outside of the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man until the Home Office has reached a decision, or the application will be withdrawn.
Skilled Worker visa applications made outside the UK
Under standard processing times, those applying for a Skilled Worker visa from outside the UK can usually expect to receive a decision within 3 weeks of the application date.
However, the delays have meant that some overseas applicants have been waiting double that time, with many waiting up to 6 weeks for a decision.
As priority and super priority services remain suspended, overseas applicants currently do not have the option to expedite their Skilled Worker visa application and should therefore be prepared for the processing time to extend beyond the 3 week standard.
However, caseworkers at SSW’s overseas offices are beginning to observe more consistent processing times for overseas applications in recent weeks, as the heavily delayed cases that were backlogged are gradually being cleared.
Most work and invest visas, including Skilled Worker visa applications, are currently taking on average 4 weeks to process.
Advice for employers and applicants
SSW is working hard to reassure clients during this period of uncertainty, and to ensure applicants are kept informed of any updates to their pending visa applications.
Applicants and employers are advised to factor in additional waiting time when applying for a Skilled Worker visa, regardless of whether the application is being submitted from overseas or from within the UK. Furthermore, sponsors should allow for some flexibility in travel dates and start dates for their sponsored employees, and be prepared to pay for priority services where available.
Due to the ongoing delays, we recommend applying early and ensuring all supporting documentation is provided, as your application will take longer to process if the Home Office needs to request more information.
If you need support in filing a Skilled Worker visa application, Smith Stone Walters can help. To speak to an experienced immigration advisor, please contact us today.
