Applying for a UK visa can be a complex process, and understanding the costs involved is crucial for applicants. The priority visa service offers faster processing times, which can be beneficial for those who need to expedite their application. In this article, we will delve into the detailed costs associated with obtaining a priority visa for the UK.
What is a Priority Visa?
A priority visa service expedites the processing of your visa application. Instead of the standard processing time, the priority service aims to process your visa within 5 working days. This is particularly useful for those who need to travel urgently.
Benefits of a Priority Visa
Faster Processing Time: The primary benefit is the reduced waiting time. This service is designed to process your application within 5 working days, compared to the standard processing time, which can take up to 3 weeks or more.
Peace of Mind: Knowing your visa application will be processed quickly can provide peace of mind, especially if you have urgent travel plans.
Priority Treatment: Your application is placed at the front of the queue, ensuring quicker handling by the UK Visas and
Immigration (UKVI) team.
Types of Priority Visas
The priority visa service is available for various types of visas. Each category may have different costs associated with the priority service.
Visitor Visas
Standard Visitor Visa: This visa is for those visiting the UK for tourism, business, or to visit family. The priority service for a standard visitor visa typically costs an additional £220 on top of the regular visa fee.
Short-term Study Visa: For those coming to the UK for short-term study (less than 6 months), the priority service also costs an additional £220.
Work Visas
Tier 2 (General) Visa: For skilled workers who have a job offer in the UK. The priority service for a Tier 2 visa is usually an extra £500.
Tier 5 (Temporary Worker) Visa: For temporary workers, such as those in creative or sporting roles. The priority service for a Tier 5 visa generally costs an additional £500.
Settlement Visas
Spouse/Partner Visa: For those applying to join a spouse or partner in the UK. The priority service for a spouse or partner visa typically costs an additional £573.
Other Settlement Visas: This includes visas for children or other dependents. The priority service cost is usually the same as the spouse/partner visa, £573.
Study Visas
Tier 4 (General) Student Visa: For international students pursuing higher education in the UK. The priority service for a Tier 4 visa generally costs an extra £220.
How to Apply for a Priority Visa
Applying for a priority visa involves several steps. It is crucial to follow the correct procedures to ensure your application is processed swiftly.
Step-by-Step Application Process
1. Complete the Visa Application Form: Start by completing the appropriate visa application form online.
2. Pay the Visa Fee: Pay the standard visa application fee relevant to your visa type.
3. Select Priority Service: During the application process, select the priority service option. The additional fee for the priority service will be displayed.
4. Pay the Priority Service Fee: Pay the additional fee for the priority service.
5. Submit Your Biometrics: Schedule and attend an appointment at a visa application center to provide your biometrics (fingerprints and photograph).
6. Submit Supporting Documents: Provide all necessary supporting documents as per the visa requirements.
7. Wait for Decision: After submitting your application and biometrics, wait for the decision within the expedited timeframe.
Important Considerations
Accuracy of Information: Ensure all information provided in your application is accurate and complete to avoid delays.
Supporting Documents: Submit all required supporting documents. Missing documents can lead to delays or rejection of your application.
Non-Refundable Fee: The priority service fee is non-refundable, even if your application is refused or if you withdraw your application.
Costs Breakdown
The cost of the priority visa service varies depending on the type of visa you are applying for. Below is a detailed breakdown of the costs.
Visitor Visas
Standard Visitor Visa: £95 (standard fee) + £220 (priority fee) = £315
Short-term Study Visa: £186 (standard fee) + £220 (priority fee) = £406
Work Visas
Tier 2 (General) Visa: £610 (standard fee) + £500 (priority fee) = £1,110
Tier 5 (Temporary Worker) Visa: £244 (standard fee) + £500 (priority fee) = £744
Settlement Visas
Spouse/Partner Visa: £1,523 (standard fee) + £573 (priority fee) = £2,096
Other Settlement Visas: £1,523 (standard fee) + £573 (priority fee) = £2,096
Study Visas
Tier 4 (General) Student Visa: £348 (standard fee) + £220 (priority fee) = £568
Additional Services
In addition to the priority service, the UKVI offers several other services to expedite or facilitate the visa application process.
Super Priority Visa Service
For an even faster processing time, the super priority visa service is available. This service aims to process your visa application within 24 hours. The cost for the super priority service is significantly higher.
Super Priority Service Fee: £956 (in addition to the standard visa fee).
Premium Lounge Service
Some visa application centers offer a premium lounge service, providing a more comfortable and private environment for submitting your application and biometrics.
Premium Lounge Fee: Varies by location, typically around £55.
see also: UK Visa Refusal: What to Do Next?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use the Priority Service for Any Visa?
No, the priority service is not available for all visa types. It is primarily available for visitor, work, study, and some settlement visas. Check the UKVI website for specific eligibility.
How Do I Know If My Application is Eligible for the Priority Service?
During the online application process, you will be given the option to select the priority service if it is available for your visa type. Ensure you review all eligibility criteria before selecting this option.
What Happens If My Application is Delayed Despite Using the Priority Service?
While the priority service aims to expedite processing, delays can still occur due to various reasons, such as incomplete applications or additional background checks. The priority service fee is non-refundable even if there are delays.
Can I Upgrade to the Priority Service After Submitting My Application?
In most cases, you must select the priority service at the time of submitting your application. Upgrading after submission is typically not allowed. Check with the visa application center for specific policies.
What Should I Do If My Visa is Refused?
If your visa application is refused, the priority service fee is non-refundable. You will need to address the reasons for refusal and may reapply, paying the applicable fees again.
Conclusion
The priority visa service offers a valuable option for those needing expedited processing of their UK visa applications. While it comes at an additional cost, the benefits of quicker processing times can outweigh the expense, particularly for urgent travel. By understanding the costs and following the correct application procedures, you can effectively utilize the priority service to meet your travel needs.
