How long visa approval takes in 2026
Realistic approval timelines by visa type and region, what published figures leave out, tracking statuses explained and when to worry about a delay.
eVisas are typically approved in 24 hours to five working days, Schengen short-stay visas in 15 calendar days, UK visitor visas in about three weeks, Canadian visitor visas in several weeks, and interview-based US visas depend almost entirely on appointment availability, ranging from days to more than a year.
Reading tracking statuses
Application received means intake only. Under process covers everything from data entry to a security check. Ready for collection means the passport is returning — it does not reveal the decision. Status changes are batched, so daily checking adds anxiety, not information.
When a delay is normal
Peak season, national holidays in either country, and additional administrative processing all add weeks legitimately. A reasonable trigger for enquiry is the published time plus 50%, or ten working days before travel, whichever comes first.
What you can actually do
Contact the visa centre with the reference number, provide any requested clarification the same day, and if the trip is imminent supply evidence of the travel date. Repeat enquiries do not accelerate assessment.
Frequently asked questions
How long does visa approval take on average?
From 24 hours for a straightforward eVisa to 15 days for Schengen and three weeks or more for interview-based routes.
What does 'under process' mean?
That the consulate has your file and is assessing it. The status does not indicate approval or refusal.
When should I contact the consulate?
Once the published processing time has passed by roughly 50%, or when travel is under ten working days away.