What is the difference between priority and super priority ILR?

Priority service aims for a decision within 5 working days. Super priority service aims for a next-working-day decision at a walk-in appointment. Both cost extra on top of the standard ILR fee, with super priority being significantly more expensive.

How much does priority ILR cost in 2026?

The priority service costs an additional fee on top of the standard ILR application fee. The super priority (next-working-day) service costs approximately £800 extra. Check GOV.UK for the exact current fees as they are updated periodically.

Is priority available for all ILR routes?

Priority and super priority services are available for most ILR applications, including Skilled Worker, spouse, and long residence routes. However, availability can vary and appointments may be limited. Check when you submit your application.

Can I upgrade to priority after submitting my ILR application?

In most cases, you cannot upgrade to priority after your application has been submitted as a standard application. You need to select the priority or super priority option at the time of application. If you want faster processing, you may need to withdraw and resubmit.

ILR Priority and Super Priority Service Explained

The priority service provides an ILR decision within 5 working days for an additional fee. The super priority service provides a next-working-day decision at a walk-in appointment for a higher fee. Both are available for most ILR routes. Choose based on your urgency, budget, and the strength of your application.

The Three Service Levels

When you apply for ILR on the GOV.UK website, you can choose from three processing speeds:

Standard service: Your application is processed in the normal queue. The published target is 6 months, though actual times vary. See our 2026 processing times guide for current estimates.
Priority service: For an additional fee, the Home Office aims to make a decision within 5 working days of your biometric appointment. You still attend a standard UKVCAS appointment.
Super priority service: For the highest additional fee, you attend a premium walk-in appointment and receive a decision by the next working day.

Cost Comparison

The total cost for each service level includes the standard ILR application fee plus the service upgrade fee. For a full breakdown, see our ILR cost breakdown guide.

In general terms, you are paying for speed and certainty. The priority service costs a few hundred pounds extra, while the super priority service costs approximately £800 extra. These fees are in addition to the ILR application fee and biometric enrolment fee.

Check the GOV.UK visa fees page for exact current fees, as they change periodically.

When to Choose Priority

The priority service (5 working days) is a good choice when:

You need a decision relatively quickly but not immediately
You want to reduce anxiety about waiting months for a decision
You have upcoming travel plans and need your new BRP
Your employer needs confirmation of your settled status for HR purposes

When to Choose Super Priority

The super priority service (next working day) makes sense when:

You have urgent travel needs
You need immediate confirmation of your status for employment or housing
You want to submit all documents in person and know the outcome immediately
Budget is less of a concern than speed

See our detailed premium walk-in guide for how the next-working-day service works in practice.

When Standard Service Is Fine

The standard service is appropriate when:

You have no urgent deadlines
Your current visa is still valid while you wait (or you have section 3C leave)
You want to save money
You are comfortable with the current processing times

While waiting for a standard decision, you can continue to work and live in the UK as normal under your existing leave or section 3C leave. If your application takes longer than expected, your MP can help chase the Home Office.

Important Considerations

Faster processing does not mean easier approval: The same caseworker standards apply regardless of which service you choose. A priority application is assessed just as thoroughly as a standard one.
Non-refundable: The priority and super priority fees are generally not refundable if your application is refused.
Availability varies: Priority and super priority appointments may not always be available at your preferred location or date. Book early.
Documents must be complete: With faster processing, there is less opportunity to submit additional documents. Review the full visa fees to budget for the total cost. Ensure everything is ready before your appointment.

Tracking Your Application

Regardless of which service level you choose, you can track the progress of your application. See our ILR status tracking guide for how to check on your application.

If you chose the standard service and your application is taking longer than expected, consider contacting the Home Office or asking your MP to intervene.