Applying for Priority and Super Priority Services is a strategic process that can expedite your UK immigration visa application. These services are designed to prioritise your application and accelerate the decision-making process, providing faster results than standard applications. It is, however, essential to understand that while these services expedite processing times, they do not influence the outcome of the application.
Steps to Apply for Priority and Super Priority Services
- Complete the online visa application: You begin by completing the online application form for the specific visa category you are applying for.
- Choose the Priority or Super Priority Service: Once the application is complete, you will be given the option to choose either the Priority or Super Priority Service before you submit and pay for the application. It’s important to note that these services carry an additional fee over and above the standard application fee.
- Biometric information submission: After payment, you’ll be required to submit your biometric information. This includes fingerprints and a digital photograph, which is done at a visa application centre.
- Submission of supporting documents: The final step is the submission of the necessary supporting documents which must be provided in the required format. It is recommended to seek professional advice to ensure the correct documents are submitted as this can significantly influence the outcome of your application.
Priority and Super Priority Service Fees
The fees for these services are in addition to the standard visa application fee. The Priority Service fee is typically less than the Super Priority Service as the latter offers a quicker processing time.
Processing Times for Priority and Super Priority Services
The Priority Service aims to process applications within 5 working days, while the Super Priority Service aims to process applications within 1 working day. However, it’s important to note that these processing times start from the date your biometric information is submitted, not the date the application is initially lodged.
Please be advised that these services are optional and their fees are non-refundable. Should your application be refused, the Home Office will not refund the service fee. Therefore, it’s imperative to ensure that your application is correctly submitted to avoid unnecessary expenditure.
The processes we have outlined above are designed to guide you through the application for Priority and Super Priority Services. However, given the complex nature of immigration rules and procedures, we strongly recommend seeking professional assistance to navigate this process. At Addison & Khan Solicitors, we are committed to providing efficient, effective, and ethical legal advice to help you expedite your UK immigration visa application process.
What Is the Cost of Priority and Super Priority Services?
Understanding the exact financial implications of utilising Priority and Super Priority Services for UK immigration visa applications is crucial for informed decision-making. There is a clear distinction between the standard rates and those associated with these accelerated services, which must be taken into consideration.
The costs associated with Priority and Super Priority Services vary depending on the specific type of visa application. However, these services invariably carry an additional charge over the standard application fees. The intention behind these extra charges is to offset the additional resources deployed by the Home Office to expedite the processing of these applications.
Priority Service Costs
The Priority Service is designed to expedite the processing time of visa applications to a period of 5 working days for entry clearance applications, and 10 working days for leave to remain and settlement applications. This is a significant reduction from the standard processing times, which range from a few weeks to several months.
The cost of the Priority Service is £500 for entry clearance applications, and £800 for leave to remain and settlement applications. This is in addition to the standard application fees, which vary depending on the specific type of visa application.
Super Priority Service Costs
The Super Priority Service pushes the boundaries of speed and efficiency even further, promising a decision within one working day for leave to remain and settlement applications. For entry clearance applications, the faster decision visa is expected within two working days.
The cost for Super Priority service is substantially higher, reflecting the extreme urgency of these applications. The service costs £800 for entry clearance applications, and a staggering £1,300 for leave to remain and settlement applications.
Please note: these costs are subject to change and may fluctuate based on Home Office guidelines. It is always advisable to check the official Home Office website or consult with an experienced immigration advisor for the most accurate and up-to-date information.