Sharp increase in UK Visa applications in New Delhi could mean delays

A sharp increase in the number of UK Visa applications in New Delhi is casing processing delays, UK Border Agency officials have said.

The last few weeks has seen a major increase in the number of UK visa applications to the British High Commission in New Delhi from Indians wanting to visit Britain.

A UK immigration spokesperson said the New Delhi office is trying to get work through the backlog of applications as quickly as possible but applicants may face a wait between five to 10 weeks.

"We have seen year on year increases in the number of visitor visa applications of about 20 per cent. We are currently in the peak season for visitor visa applications, so it is even more important to make applications in good time," the spokesperson said.

People who have already visited Britain within the last year can expect to have their visas approved within a week.

Travellers are being advised to apply for a UK Visa at least five to 10 weeks in advance of a trip to ensure the application is processed in time.

The UK Visa Bureau is an independent consulting company specialising in helping people lodging their applications for a UK Visa with the British High Commission.