The spouse visa (FLR(FP)) under the Partner Route in the UK has no published standard processing time. Based on experience, most applications receive a decision within 6–12 months, but if no answer arrives within that period, additional time may be required.

Why there’s no official timeframe

Previously, UK Visas and Immigration stated that the Extended Service for FLR(FP) would take up to 12 months. Now the UKVI website no longer lists a published standard timeframe for the Partner Route. The reason is the large number of applications waiting in the queue for processing.

Real-world processing times

Based on the experience of most applicants, a decision on FLR(FP) usually arrives within 6–12 months from the date of submission. If a decision isn’t received within this period, it doesn’t guarantee refusal — it may simply require waiting for further review.

When the Partner Route applies

The Partner Route is available when a British partner is sponsoring a spouse or partner visa. The partner’s status (whether they have children or other dependants) doesn’t affect the main process: the applicant still applies through this route regardless of their family situation.