UK Spouse Visa Processing Time (Inside & Outside UK)
Applying for a UK spouse visa can be an emotional and complex process, especially when you are waiting for a decision that affects family life, travel, employment, or settlement plans. One of the most common questions we receive at Kash Legal Services is:
“How long will my UK spouse visa take?”
The answer depends on a range of factors, including where the application is made (inside or outside the UK), whether priority or super priority services are used, and the strength and completeness of supporting evidence. In this detailed, user‑friendly guide, we explain realistic timelines, priority options, common causes of delay, and how professional legal support can help maximise your chances of a timely decision.
UK Spouse Visa Processing Timelines Explained
UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) sets specific service standards for processing spouse visa applications, but actual timings can vary depending on workload, regional variations, case complexity, and documentation quality. Below is a clear summary of current timelines for applications made both outside and inside the UK.
Spouse / Partner Visa (Entry Clearance)
- Published service standard: Up to 12 weeks
- Typical realistic timeframe: 4–6 months in practice
- Regional variations: Some regions may exceed 6 months
- Priority service option: Available (~30 working days)
Spouse Visa Extension or Switch (FLR(M))
- Published service standard: Up to 8 weeks
- Typical timeframe: 8–12 weeks
- Priority & Super Priority: Available (based on eligibility)
- Section 3C leave: Extends leave if current visa expires during processing
Priority & Super Priority Services (Faster Decisions)
For applicants who need quicker decisions, the Home Office provides priority processing options. These services accelerate decision times but do not affect the substance of the decision.
Standard Priority Processing
- Decision time: ~5 working days (inside UK), ~30 working days (outside UK)
- Additional fee: ~£500
- Key fact: Fee is non‑refundable and does not affect the outcome
Fastest Processing Option
- Decision time: Next working day
- Additional fee: ~£1,000
- Availability: Usually for in‑country cases
- Important: Must be selected during application submission — cannot be added later
When UKVI Starts and Ends Processing
The Home Office considers processing to start once the applicant has:
- Attended the biometric appointment, or
- Completed digital identity verification via the UKVI ID Check app
Processing ends when UKVI issues a formal decision by email or letter. Progress updates are generally not provided while the application remains within published standards.
Common Reasons Spouse Visa Applications Take Longer
- Missing or incomplete evidence, such as financial documents or accommodation proof
- Failure to meet the minimum income threshold (£29,000)
- Insufficient proof of genuine and subsisting relationship
- Invalid or outdated English language certificates
- Complex immigration history, previous refusals or borderline eligibility
- Operational backlogs, seasonal peaks or verification requirements in certain regions
Extended processing does not mean the application will be refused. In many cases, additional checks are undertaken as part of due diligence by UKVI.
What Happens if Your Visa Expires During Processing?
If you apply from inside the UK before your current leave expires, your permission to stay is automatically extended under Section 3C of the Immigration Act until a decision is made. This includes work and study permissions linked to your previous visa category.
Why Choose Kash Legal Services?
Choosing the right legal partner can make a significant difference to your spouse visa outcome and overall experience. Kash Legal Services specialises in UK family immigration, offering personalised, compliant, and strategic support to help applicants secure a timely decision.
Extensive Visa Experience
Our team has handled hundreds of spouse visa applications, giving us insight into Home Office practices and nuances.
Detailed Application Review
We carefully review your documents to minimise errors and strengthen your evidence before submission.
Clear Communication
We provide regular updates and clear guidance throughout the process, making it easier for you to plan and prepare.
Trusted Support
Our clients trust our professional approach and personal attention to detail for every application.