If you're in a hurry to get your UK visa, the UK visa express priority services and fast-track options can save you a lot of time. These services let you speed up the UK visa application process, whether you're applying for a work, study, or settlement visa.

In this Global Law UK visa guide, we’ll explain how the priority and super priority services work, their costs, and what to expect—so you can decide if they’re the right choice for your needs.

If you are looking for the easiest way to get your visa, apply with us!

What are the UK priority and super priority services?

How to fast-track a UK visa application? Both the UK priority service and super priority service are options that allow you to get a decision on your visa or settlement application more quickly than the usual wait time.

• UK priority service: You usually get a decision within 5 working days. If you are applying for a Family visa from outside the UK, the decision usually takes up to 30 working days.

• UK super priority service: This is the quickest option, with a decision typically made by the end of the next working day, as long as everything is completed correctly.

These UK visa fast-track services are available for most visa and settlement applications, but not all types of applications qualify. Check the list.

How does the UK priority service work?

The UK priority service helps speed up the decision-making process for an extra £500 on top of the normal application fee. Here’s what you need to know about it:

• 5 working days for a decision: Most of the time, you will get your decision within 5 working days. If you are applying for a Family visa from outside the UK, this can take up to 30 working days.

• When does the timer start?: The clock starts ticking either after you’ve attended your appointment or after you’ve uploaded your documents using the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app.

• What if it takes longer?: Sometimes, the Home Office might need more information or need to check your details with other government departments. If this happens, you’ll be told, but the decision might take longer.

• UK priority service for family members: £500 per person, for a decision within 5 working days.

How does the UK super priority service work?

What is the fastest way to get an UK visa? The UK super priority service is the fastest option, with a decision usually made by the end of the next working day. It costs an additional £1,000 on top of the regular UK visa application fee. Here’s how it works:

• Next-day decision: If your appointment is on a weekday, you’ll usually get a decision by the end of the next working day. If your appointment is on a weekend or public holiday, you’ll get a decision in 2 working days.

• Using the ID Check App: If you use the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app to upload your documents, you’ll get a decision by the end of the next working day if you submit your documents on a weekday, or within 2 working days if you submit them on a weekend or holiday.

• Possible delays: Just like the Priority Service, your decision might take longer if the Home Office needs more information or checks your details with other departments. You’ll be informed if this happens.

• Super priority service for family members: £1,000 per person, for a decision by the end of the next working day.

UK express visa process

Once you’ve submitted your application and paid for your chosen fast UK visa service, you’ll get an email or letter confirming your application. Be sure to check your spam folder if you don’t see any emails from the Home Office.

Then, you’ll wait for your decision. If there are any delays, the Home Office will let you know and explain why.

Why might it take longer?

Even if you’ve paid for a faster UK visa application decision, sometimes the process can still take longer. If the Home Office needs more details from you or if they need to check your British visa application with other government departments, they will inform you. However, the extra fees you paid for the fast-track services won’t be refunded in case of delays.

Are UK visa priority services refundable?

Refunds aren’t common, but in some cases, you might be able to get your money back. Here’s what you need to know about fast UK visa refunds:

When you can't get a refund

In most cases, the extra visa fee for the priority or super priority service is non-refundable, even if:

• There’s a delay: The Home Office may take longer if they need more information or need to check your details with other government departments.

• Unforeseen issues occur: Problems outside the Home Office’s control, such as system issues or additional checks, don’t qualify for refunds.

When refunds may be available

You might be able to get a refund of the extra fee if:

• The service wasn’t provided: If the Home Office didn’t process your fast UK visa application within the promised timeframe and it wasn’t your fault (for example, you provided all the needed documents on time).

• You weren’t eligible: If it turns out you weren’t allowed to use the UK priority or super priority service but you paid for it anyway.

• You cancel before processing starts: If you cancel your application before your biometrics appointment or before submitting documents via the app, you may get the extra service fee refunded.

How to request a refund for UK express visa services

If you think you’re eligible for a refund, follow these steps:

• Have your application reference number and proof of payment ready.

• Write a clear explanation of why you think you deserve a refund.

• Include important details, like your payment receipt, application number, and any emails or letters from the Home Office.

• Send to ukvi.visa.pvspv.customerrefundrequests@homeoffice.gov.uk

Refund requests can take several weeks because the Home Office needs time to review your situation.

Are UK priority services worth it?

UK priority services are great options if you need a fast application decision. If you have urgent plans or need your visa for work or family reasons, paying the extra fees can help you get your visa faster.

However, if you don’t mind waiting a bit longer, you might want to stick with the standard UK visa processing time, which is cheaper.

FAQs

Can I get a UK visa in 2 days?

Yes, with the Super Priority Service, you can get a decision by the next working day.

How fast is UK visa processing?

Standard processing takes 3 weeks, like the UK visit visa processing time, Priority Service speeds it up to 5 days, and Super Priority Service offers next-day decisions.

How to fast track a UK visa application?

Opt for the Priority (£500) or Super Priority (£1,000) services during your application for faster processing.

What is the fastest visa to get?

The Super Priority Service provides a decision by the next working day for most visa types.

Why is my UK visa approval taking so long?

Delays can happen due to additional checks, missing documents, high application volumes, or complex cases.