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Visas: Applications

Asked by Nick TimothyConservativeHome OfficeTabled Answered 22 October 2025UIN 78999

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, what the average processing time was for visas broken down by (a) each visa route and (b) month since July 2024.

Answered by Mike Tapp

UKVI have been processing applications on all of its routes where a customer service standard is operated within their published customer service standards during the requested time period. On 1 September the Secretary of State for the Home Department announced a temporary suspension of new applications under the Refugee Family Reunion route and this remains in place. Visa processing times are published on the UKVI website at Visa processing times: applications outside the UK - GOV.UK and Visa processing times: applications inside the UK - GOV.UK.

It may take longer to process an application if:

  • the information in the application is not accurate or needs more consideration
  • further evidence needs to be provided, for example evidence of funds
  • supporting documents need to be verified
  • an interview is required
  • we need more information on personal circumstances (for example if there is a criminal conviction)

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