Key Points
- Inside the UK: super priority costs £1,000 on top of the fee, where available.
- Outside the UK: priority for settlement visas is offered in some countries only.
- Paying for priority does not make a weak application stronger.
- Complex cases can fall outside the faster timescale.
Inside the UK
For extensions, switches and settlement applications made in the UK, the super priority service aims for a decision by the end of the next working day after biometrics. Appointments are limited and are released in batches.
Outside the UK
Where it is offered, the priority service for settlement applications aims for a faster decision than the standard timescale. Availability and price are set per country and can be suspended at short notice.
When it is worth it
- A visa is about to expire and you need certainty quickly
- A job start date, a birth or family circumstances make time critical
- You need your documents back for travel
When it may not help
If the application needs further enquiries, it can be taken out of the priority process and the extra fee is not normally refunded. A complete, clearly organised application matters even more when you pay for speed.
Official Sources
This page is general information, not legal advice. The rules and figures are set by the Home Office and can change.