How Soon Do I Get My Passport Back After Visa Application Submission?
- Marcopolo Holidays
- 1 day ago
- 4 min read
Being without your passport for two weeks can feel nerve-wracking, especially when you are waiting to see whether you will get that visa sticker for your upcoming plans. In this guide, we break down the expected application timelines after visa submission for some of the most demanded visas, including Schengen, Canada, UK, and US visas.
Schengen Visas: Processing Time Categories
When it comes to Schengen visas, processing times generally fall into these categories. Start counting your processing time from the day after your VFS or BLS appointment. Keep in mind that public holidays may impact timelines.
1. Within 15 calendar days (around 2 weeks), excluding public holidays
This is the most common category and can apply to countries such as:
Switzerland | Italy |
Hungary | Estonia |
Finland | Germany |
Latvia | Lithuania |
Luxembourg | Malta |
Norway | Poland |
Portugal | Sweden |
2. Within 15 working days (around 3 weeks)
This can apply to countries such as:
Austria | France |
Belgium | Bulgaria |
Croatia | Czech Republic |
Greece | Iceland |
Monaco | Spain |
Important note: Schengen outliers (plan extra time)
Some countries can take longer than the timelines above. For example, Denmark and the Netherlands can be outliers. Netherlands processes applications within 1 month, whether you are applying for business or tourism. If your main destination is the Netherlands, it is best to apply with ample time before travel.
UK Visa: Standard Timeline and Faster Options
The standard processing time for a UK visa is typically 15 working days (around 3 weeks) from the date of your biometrics appointment.
From 25 February 2026, most successful applicants will receive an eVisa (digital visa) instead of a visa sticker in their passport. This means that passports will no longer be held by visa application centres, making the process more convenient for travellers.
Faster UK Visa Processing Options
If you have urgent travel plans, the UK offers priority services to speed up the decision on your application:
1. Priority Visa Service
The Priority Visa option allows your application to be processed within 5 working days for an additional fee.
Important: This service only speeds up the processing time. It does not guarantee visa approval.
2. Super Priority Visa Service
For even faster processing, the Super Priority Visa aims to provide a decision within 1 working day, subject to availability and an additional premium fee.
Important: This service also does not guarantee approval. All applications are assessed based on eligibility and supporting documents.
US Visa: After the Interview, When Do You Get Your Passport Back?
For US visas, after attending your interview, you are usually informed on the spot whether your application is approved or not. If approved by the visa officer, you will be asked to submit your passport immediately.
After this, the application goes through administrative review. While approval is highly likely at this stage, you are not fully confirmed until you track your application and see your status change to “Issued.”
Typical passport return timeline
After the status changes to “Issued,” you typically receive your passport back within 2 to 10 working days.
Important note on delays
Due to application volume, and if extra administrative processing is needed, timelines can extend. In some cases, processing can take a few days to a couple of weeks, but administrative holds can take significantly longer and may extend to months. It is best to check official sources for real-time wait times at your specific post.
Canada Visa: When Do You Submit Your Passport?
Canada visa processing works differently from most countries.
Step-by-Step Process
Apply Online and upload all required documents
Receive a Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL)
Attend your biometrics appointment
At the biometrics stage:
You must bring your passport for identification
Your passport is not retained and is returned immediately
Processing Timeline
After biometrics, your application is reviewed by IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada)
Typical processing time: around 45 days
Can extend up to 180 days depending on the case
Passport Submission Stage
If your application is not successful you will receive a refusal letter through the IRCC portal. Otherwise, you will receive a Passport Request Letter (PPR). After receiving this letter, you will be required to submit your passport to the application centre for further processing.
Passport Return Timeline
Typically, around 5 working days after submission
Important Note
Receiving a passport request is a strong positive sign, but it does not guarantee final visa approval. The visa is only confirmed once your passport is returned with the visa stamp.
Visa Processing & Passport Return Comparison
Visa Type | Typical decision timeline (general) | Can it take longer? | When you usually get your passport back |
Schengen | 15 calendar days standard | Up to 45 calendar days | Often 2 to 3 weeks, may extend in peak seasons |
UK (Visitor) | often around 15 working days | Yes, depends on volume and case | Passport not retained |
US (B1/B2) | Decision often at interview, printing after | Administrative processing varies | Often a few days to a couple of weeks, can be longer |
Canada | Around 45 days (up to 180 days) | Yes, depending on application | ~5 working days after passport submission |
Final Thoughts
While visa processing times can vary by country and visa type, knowing the typical timelines for destinations like the Schengen Area, the US, UK, and Canada can help you plan better.
Be mindful of factors like public holidays and administrative delays that may affect your passport return. Always check official sources for the most accurate updates, and consider using expedited services if you’re on a tight schedule if applicable. Planning ahead will ensure a smoother travel experience.
Need help with your visa application process?
Whether you're applying for a Schengen, UK, US, or Canada visa, our experts are here to guide you every step of the way.
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