Guide to Processing Times

How to use the guide

This UK Border Agency guide gives visa applicants information on how long their applications may take based on recent visa processing performance. The visa application centres in each country are listed alphabetically. Processing times are given in working days, excluding weekends and public holidays. Performance figures are updated monthly.

Guide to visa application processing times

Visa applicants should bear in mind that each application is subject to an individual assessment and processing times may vary. This guide cannot be used as a guarantee of processing times.

Processing times in Kuwait

For straightforward applications The UK Border Agency in Kuwait normally takes up to 3 working days and for non-straightforward applications it normally takes up to 15 working days for decision-making.

Processing times may take longer if the application requires further assessment and checks. As a general rule, straightforward applications are those where an applicant has travelled to the UK in the last 2 years and shows good travel history. A straightforward application can be decided on the basis of the application and the supporting documents submitted without the need for further enquiries or more detailed scrutiny.

Non-straightforward applications are anything other than a visit visa, and those from applicants who have not visited the UK before or in the last 2 years. A non-straightforward application requires more time to be decided (for example - if more detailed enquiries or a personal interview are required).

Customer Service Standards

UK Border Agency Visa Services staff, and staff at VFS are committed to providing a high level of service to our customers. Information on our processing time standards can be found on the UK Border Agency Visa Services website.