UK Visas and Immigration has reintroduced priority services for sponsored work, study and global talent applications. This follows the suspension of these services in March 2022 to allow for resources to be focused on the processing of applications from Ukrainian nationals under the Ukrainian visa schemes. 

What are the priority services?

The priority services allow visa applicants to request faster processing of their visa applications for an additional fee. The priority service, which usually results in a decision within five working days costs an additional £500, whereas the super priority service usually results in a decision by the end of the next working day for an additional £800.

Is this good or bad news? 

Whilst this will be welcome news for those wishing to come to the UK on work or study routes, the news is not so positive for those applying to come to the UK under the family settlement routes. The priority services for family settlement visas remain suspended and the current processing times for such applications is 24 weeks, twice the usual standard. As a result, many families may face difficulties in ensuring they arrive in the UK in time for their children to start the new school year, or indeed for the applicant or sponsor to commence employment in the UK.

What should an applicant do?

Forward planning is essential when it comes to factoring in processing delays, particularly in respect of travel dates and work or course start dates. Applicants should also consider their eligibility for other visa options which are not impacted by processing delays. If you are in need of support in navigating the visa system and your available options, please contact a member of our immigration team for assistance.