Step 5: Wait for a decision

It usually takes 3 weeks from the date of your biometric appointment to receive a decision on your visa application, but it may take longer. You will not be able to request a faster decision after applying. 

Awaiting the decision 

It usually takes around 3 weeks from your appointment to receive a decision, but it may take longer. 

Making a priority or super-priority application 

You will not be able to purchase Priority (PV) or super-priority (SPV) services at the point when you complete  your visa application form and pay for their visa fee on gov.uk. However, these services remain available for purchase when you select their biometric appointment on the commercial partner website (TLS or VFS) as part of the application process, if PV and SPV services are available in that location. 

Is it possible to get a faster decision after applying? 

After you submit your application, unfortunately, there is no way to request a faster decision on your application. 

Only if you paid for a priority service when you submitted the application will you receive a decision sooner than the normal turnaround time. However, you may still have to wait longer to get your passport back. 

What if you will not get your visa in time for the start of your studies 

The impact of a delayed visa on your studies depends on your programme. Generally, PhD programmes tend to offer more flexibility with delayed starts.  

Please contact us for advice. 

Contact us through our enquiry form 

Do not travel to the UK without your Student visa 

You should not travel to the UK as a visitor if your visa is delayed. You need to have your Student visa to be able to study in the UK. 

Next step 

Step 6: Receive your decision