UK ICT Visa Processing Time 2025 | Guide for Indian Employees
If you're an Indian employee getting transferred to your company’s UK branch or subsidiary in 2025, the Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) visa or now under the Skilled Worker (ICT route) is your legal route. But once you submit your application, the real suspense begins: how long will it take?
How long does it take to process a UK Intra-Company Transfer visa from India? What can slow it down? Is there a way to speed it up?
This blog outlines everything you need to know about UK ICT visa processing times, potential delays, and how to avoid them.
Average Processing Time for UK ICT Visa (2025)
The Intra-Company visa route allows multinational companies to relocate employees from India to the UK for roles that require specialist knowledge or executive control.
Average Timeframe (India):
Standard processing: 3 to 6 weeks
Priority processing (extra fee): 5 working days
Super priority (limited availability): Next working day
Note: Timelines vary based on your documentation, biometrics, and whether you apply through VFS Global centers in India.
What Affects UK ICT Visa Processing Time?
Like any visa process, delays may occur due to:
1. Incomplete Application or Documents
Incorrect Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) number
Expired documents or unclear employer letters
Missing salary proofs, job role details, or academic qualifications
2. Biometrics Appointment Delays
Getting a VFS appointment in metro cities may take days during peak months
Additional identity checks may extend timelines
3. Busy Seasons
January–March and September–October often see increased applications for international transfers
4. Sponsorship Issues
If the UK employer’s sponsorship license is under review or newly issued, extra verifications may apply
5. Background Checks
If the applicant has multiple past visas, travel records, or frequent business trips, it may prompt a longer review
How to Track Your UK Visa Application from India
Once your application is submitted through UKVI/VFS Global, you can:
Use your GWF number to track on the VFS Global portal
Opt for SMS/email updates (paid service via VFS)
Log into your UKVI account to check notifications
Tips to Avoid Delays in Your UK ICT Visa Process
✔ Apply in advance: Submit your application 30–45 days before your transfer date
✔ Use the correct CoS details: Make sure your employer enters the accurate salary, job code, and duties
✔ Double-check your documents: Degree, work experience letter, sponsorship certificate, travel history
✔ Pay for priority if urgent: Fast-track services cost more but may save time if your joining date is close
✔ Keep your biometric appointment early: Schedule it within 3–5 days of applying online
How BTW Visa Helps Indian Professionals with UK ICT Visas
At BTW Visa, we support professionals working in IT, consulting, pharma, and global industries with smooth UK transfer visa filing.
Here’s how we assist:
Document review based on UKVI compliance
Drafting sponsor letters and purpose statements
Online visa filing with GWF number generation
Scheduling priority biometrics appointments
VFS coordination and document uploads
End-to-end support from offer to onboarding
Whether you’re an HR head managing a batch transfer or an executive with a tight deadline we reduce the processing pressure for you.
Conclusion
Waiting for a UK Intra-Company visa can feel frustrating, especially when global projects or relocations are involved. But if you start early, stay organized, and follow UKVI’s guidelines closely, you’ll move from offer to office faster than you think.
And if you want expert support at every step BTW Visa is just one call away.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How early should I apply for a UK ICT visa from India?
A: At least 4–6 weeks before your expected joining date in the UK.
Q2: Is there any express service for faster approval?
A: Yes. UKVI offers priority (5 days) and super priority (1 day) services for additional fees.
Q3: Can I apply for a dependent visa along with ICT?
A: Yes. Spouses and children can apply as dependents at the same time under the same reference number.
Q4: What if my company doesn’t have a UK sponsor license?
A: They must apply for a sponsor license before issuing a CoS. Without it, no visa application can proceed.
A: Absolutely. We follow up with VFS, help identify the reason for delay, and assist in reapplication if needed.
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