Visa application centre turnaround time

[venusloon]

I'm in a pickle!  I waited way too long to do my student visa application to study in Belfast.  I have an appointment this Wednesday (6/18) at the visa application centre, but I'm leaving for a two month vacation to New Zealand two Saturdays from now (6/28).  My dilemma is that since I have to mail in my passport and other documentation to NY after

Comments

[sofamiliar]

... You waited way too long.

If there's still an option to apply in person, you can get it back same-day, but I'm pretty sure they've eliminated that option.

Is there a way to change your plane ticket to NZ and maybe do a one-month vacation instead?

[venusloon]

Of course, but I'm trying to gauge the actual turnaround time first before I change my travel plans. This link says ( http://www.ukvisas.gov.uk/en/faqs/faqapplyforvisa/2990985) that they usually do it within 15 days. How accurate do you think that is?

[sofamiliar]

Honestly, it's a crapshoot - no one can predict that. They could have it back within two days, or take the whole fifteen, it just depends on how backlogged they are. I'd allow twenty days at the very least before booking your flight to allow for the full time to get the passport back plus any mail delays.

[raketje]

As it will be right before term time, it's probably safe to say that it will take whatever time they say is the max it will take.

I sent my PhD student visa off two weeks before I was due to leave to come back to England, and I got it literally the day before I flew.

I'd either change your NZ tickets, or send it the day you get back from NZ and cross your fingers.

[venusloon]

I'm going to spend the extra $100-150 to get a courier to take care of it. The change fees to the flight are even more, so I figure this is the best route. Thanks everyone!