Just wanted to give a heads up to anyone applying who is wondering about wait times.
I submitted all of my documents by September 5. I had an free biometrics appointment at the end of September, but I got ill, so I had to reschedule. I could only get the £138 ones if I wanted one in the next couple of weeks.
I was told it could take up to 6 months for approval, but I received one in just 6 days (5 business days later) from my biometrics appointment. I was shocked and fully prepared to wait for at least a couple of months (as it always good been previously). I know technically we waited about 5 weeks or so, but I expected the waiting to begin after my bio appointment.
My partner and I are both directors of a limited company, so this was what we’ve been told us the most difficult way to prove your financial status. Previously we just did his 6 month payslips—it wasn’t more difficult necessarily, but SO MUCH PAPERWORK. I think I submitted at least 400 pages in total by the end.
Anyway; sorry for the yammering and I hope this helps someone! Now I’m waiting for the card to come in the mail so I can destroy the old one.