Please see this article which explains why there are currently delays in Q1 2024 https://www.jobsandvisas.co.uk/post/expect-uk-visa-processing-delays-in-q1-2024

Just wanted to give you a heads up about the ongoing Student Visa Season that's currently underway from June to October (this happens every year(. During this period, UKVI directs a significant portion of their caseworkers' attention towards processing student visas, which are given priority. As a result, all visa applications might experience longer processing times than usual, often surpassing the estimated 3-week timeframe. If you're planning to apply for a visa within this time frame and have a specific deadline to meet, I strongly recommend considering the option of paying for priority service. Here's my personal suggestion: • If your travel is scheduled within less than 8 weeks, opting for the priority service is advisable. • If your travel is imminent, within 1-3 weeks, the super priority service might be more suitable. It's important to note that reaching out to the hotline (which is managed by a third-party service, Sitel UK, and not UKVI) to accelerate your visa decision isn't likely to yield effective results. Based on available information, there's no concrete evidence that the call center consistently follows escalation protocols. Their typical response tends to be that they've "escalated" the matter, often without clear proof of such action, except in exceptional cases. Generally, the hotline seems more focused on collecting fees rather than providing substantial assistance. Realistically, if you have a specific time frame in which you need to be in the UK, it's advisable to be prepared for the additional cost of a faster processing service. Additionally, it's a good practice to apply well in advance—usually about 3 months—for most visa types to ensure a smoother process.

You are correct that you need to have £1270 in savings in your bank account to apply for a UK Skilled Worker visa. The requirement is that you have had the money available for at least 28 days in a row, with day 28 within 31 days of applying for the visa. For example, if you apply for the visa on July 12, 2023, you must have had the £1270 in your bank account since June 25, 2023. If you are unable to provide proof that you have had the £1270 in your bank account for at least 28 days, you may still be able to apply for the visa if you can provide other evidence that you can support yourself financially in the UK. This evidence could include things like a letter from your employer stating that they will cover your living expenses, or a bank statement showing that you have a regular income. If you have a dependents then you are required to have additional money available: • Partner: £285 • First child: £315 • Additional child: £200 The amount of money required for each dependent is based on their age and relationship to the main applicant. For example, a partner of the main applicant must have £285 in savings, while a child of the main applicant must have £315 in savings if they are the first child. The same 28-day rule applies to dependents as it does to the main applicant. This means that the money must have been available in the dependent's bank account for at least 28 days in a row, with day 28 within 31 days of applying for the visa. If you are unable to provide proof that you have had the required amount of money in your bank account for at least 28 days, you may still be able to apply for the visa if you can provide other evidence that you can support your dependents financially in the UK. This evidence could include things like a letter from your employer stating that they will cover your dependents' living expenses, or a bank statement showing that you have a regular income. You can find more information about the financial requirements for individuals and dependents on a UK Skilled Worker visa on the gov.uk website: • UK Skilled Worker visa savings required for individual applicant • UK Skilled Worker visa savings required for depenedents I hope this helps! The Jobs and Visas Team

Skilled Worker Visa Processing Times Congratulations on your job offer in the UK! The time it takes to get a visa can vary depending on several factors, including the type of visa you are applying for and your individual circumstances. However, I can provide you with some general information to help you plan ahead and more detailed information is available here. The application process typically involves several steps, including gathering the necessary documents, completing an online application, paying the relevant fees, and attending an appointment at a visa application center or embassy/consulate. Additionally, you may need to provide biometric information, such as fingerprints, as part of the process. Depending on your line of work and the country you currently reside in, you may be required to provide certain documents such as a police clearance certificate and a tuberculosis (TB) test as part of your visa application process for the UK. If you require either of these then these can delay you starting your visa application. Police clearance certificate: Some visa categories, such as the Tier 2 (General) visa and the Skilled Worker visa, may require applicants to provide a police clearance certificate or a similar document from the country or countries they have resided in for a specified period of time. This certificate helps demonstrate your good character and verifies that you have no criminal record. The process for obtaining a police clearance certificate varies from country to country, so it's advisable to research the requirements and procedures specific to your current country of residence. TB test: In certain cases, individuals applying for a UK visa may need to undergo a tuberculosis (TB) test. The requirement for a TB test depends on the country you are applying from and whether it is listed as a high-risk country for TB by the UK government. If your country is on the list, you will need to undergo a TB screening test at a designated clinic approved by the UKVI. It's essential to carefully review the specific requirements for your visa category and consult the official UK government website or your nearest UK embassy or consulate for the most accurate and up-to-date information. They will provide guidance on the necessary documents, including any additional clearances or tests you may need to complete. By being proactive and ensuring you have all the required documents ready, including police clearances and TB tests if necessary, you can streamline the visa application process and avoid any unnecessary delays. Good luck with your preparations and your new job in the UK! The processing time for visas can vary depending on the workload of the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) department and the location where you submit your application. Generally, the processing time for a standard visa application is around 8 weeks, assuming there are no complications or delays with your application. UKVI publicised processing time is currently 3 weeks, but plan on 2 months with having to schedule appointments for source: uk immigration and visas - visa processing times To get a more accurate estimate of the processing time, you can visit the UK government's official website or contact the nearest UK embassy or consulate in your country. They will have the most up-to-date information regarding visa processing times and requirements. In the meantime, it's great that you're planning ahead to sell your belongings. This will give you ample time to organize and prepare for your move to the UK. Remember to familiarise yourself with the UK's customs regulations and any restrictions on bringing certain items into the country. Best of luck with your visa application and your exciting new job in the UK!