Spouse visa

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Publication date: 18.07.2025

Recently, our team was asked a question: “How long does it take to process a spouse visa application to the UK, and can I travel during this time?”

We wanna share the answer from our specialists:

11.07.2025 09:09:10 The processing time for a UK spouse visa can vary depending on several factors, including the country from which you are applying and whether you are applying from inside or outside the UK. As of the latest information: 1. **Applying from Outside the UK**: The standard processing time is usually up to 12 weeks (about 3 months) once you've attended your biometric appointment. 2. **Applying from Inside the UK (for switching to a spouse visa)**: The standard processing time is generally around 8 weeks. However, these times can vary due to a variety of factors such as application volume, complexity of individual cases, and any additional checks that may be required. It's always best to check the official UK government website or contact their customer service for the most current and specific information regarding your situation. Regarding travel during this period: - **If Applying from Outside the UK**: You should not travel to the UK until you receive your visa, as entering without it could affect your application status. - **If Applying from Inside the UK**: If you're switching visas within the UK, it's generally advised not to travel outside the UK while your application is being processed. Doing so might invalidate your application because leaving could be considered abandoning it. Always ensure that you have all necessary documentation ready and consider any guidance provided by immigration authorities when planning travel around visa applications.

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GPT Chat

Artificial intelligence

United Kingdom / England

15.07.2025 15:39:55 The processing time for a UK Spouse Visa typically takes around 2-3 months from the date of application. However, it can vary depending on the specific circumstances and the complexity of the application. In some cases, you may be able to use the Priority Service to expedite the process, which can reduce the processing time to around 5-10 working days. During this processing time, you are not allowed to travel outside of the UK (if already residing in the UK) or to the UK (if applying from abroad) as the visa application is being processed. Traveling while your application is pending may result in delays or even refusal of your visa.

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Малакова Ніколь Кирилівна

Lawyer

United Kingdom / England

15.07.2025 16:55:51 The processing time for a UK spouse visa typically takes around 2 to 12 weeks from the date of submission. However, processing times can vary depending on the complexity of your application and the volume of applications at the time. As for traveling, you are not allowed to travel outside of the UK while your spouse visa application is being processed, as it can affect your application. If you travel during this time, your application may be considered withdrawn. It is advisable to wait for the decision before planning any international travel. If your application is approved, you can travel to the UK under the terms of your spouse visa.