UK Marriage and Fiancée Visa Processing Times
Understanding the expected processing times for UK Marriage and Fiancée Visas is essential when planning your travel, wedding, or future with your partner. While visa decisions are not guaranteed within fixed timelines, the UK Home Office provides guidance on average waiting periods. These can vary depending on where and how you apply, as well as seasonal demand and application complexity.
Standard Processing Times – Outside the UK:
If you are applying for a UK Marriage or Fiancée Visa from outside the UK, the standard processing time is usually around 12 weeks (or 60 working days) from the date of your biometric appointment. This applies whether you’re submitting an application for a Spouse Visa (Marriage) or a Fiancée Visa.
It is important to note that processing times are calculated from the biometric appointment date — not the online application date — so delays in scheduling that appointment can affect your timeline.
Priority Visa Services (Optional):
The UKVI offers a Priority Visa Service in certain countries. For an additional fee (approximately £573), you can receive a decision within 30 working days. Super Priority (next-day decision) is rarely available for settlement visas and is typically not applicable to Marriage or Fiancée categories.
Processing Times – Inside the UK (Switch or Extend):
If you are switching from a Fiancée Visa to a Spouse Visa after your marriage in the UK, or extending an existing Spouse Visa, the standard processing time is generally 8 weeks. For those using the Super Priority Service (where available), a decision may be made within 1 working day after your biometric appointment.
Delays and Factors Affecting Processing:
While many applications are processed on time, some can face delays due to:
- Missing or unclear documents
- Complex case history or previous visa refusals
- Inconsistencies in financial documentation
- Security or background checks
- Surge periods (summer weddings, holiday seasons, etc.)
To avoid unnecessary delays, ensure that all documents are complete, correctly formatted, and translated if required. Consider submitting extra evidence that supports the genuineness of your relationship and financial standing.
Tracking Your Application:
After submission, you’ll receive a reference number to track your visa. You can check for updates via the UKVI visa decision waiting time tool or contact the visa centre where you submitted your application.
When to Apply:
You can apply up to 3 months before your intended travel date. It’s highly recommended to start early and prepare thoroughly. Do not make final travel arrangements or book weddings in the UK until you receive your visa decision.
Summary:
- Standard processing: 12 weeks (outside UK), 8 weeks (inside UK)
- Priority service: ~30 working days (outside UK)
- Super Priority: 1 working day (inside UK, limited availability)
- Apply early and ensure all documents are in order
Whether you’re applying from abroad or switching visas inside the UK, understanding and planning for the typical visa processing timelines will help you avoid stress and uncertainty. If your case is urgent, consider using the Priority Service where available.