App Store Review Time 2025
How long does Apple take to review your app? Get current review times, understand what affects duration, and learn how to expedite the process when needed.
How Long Does App Store Review Take in 2025?
The average App Store review time in 2025 is 24-48 hours for most apps. According to Apple, 90% of submissions are reviewed within 24 hours. First-time app submissions may take slightly longer (up to 72 hours), while app updates are typically faster. TestFlight beta reviews usually complete in under 24 hours.
Current App Store Review Times
Apple has dramatically improved review times since 2020. Here's what you can expect in 2025:
New App Submissions
App Updates
TestFlight Beta
After Rejection
Apple's Official Statement
According to Apple's App Store Review page: "Most apps are reviewed within 24 hours." This has been consistently accurate since 2021, though actual times may vary based on complexity and volume.
What Affects Review Time?
Several factors can make your review faster or slower:
Factors That Speed Up Review
- Established developer account - Apps from developers with good track records are often reviewed faster
- Clear app purpose - Apps with straightforward functionality are easier to review
- Complete metadata - Proper screenshots, descriptions, and review notes help reviewers
- Demo account provided - Saves reviewer time testing login-required features
- Minor updates - Bug fixes and small changes are reviewed faster than new features
Factors That Slow Down Review
- First-time submissions - New developers and apps get extra scrutiny
- Complex categories - Finance, health, gambling, and kids' apps require extra review
- In-app purchases - IAP requires verification of proper implementation
- External authentication - Sign In with Apple requirements may need verification
- Holiday periods - Year-end freeze and WWDC time can extend reviews
- Previous rejections - Apps with rejection history may receive closer review
How to Request Expedited Review
Apple offers expedited review for critical situations. Here's how to request it:
Valid Reasons for Expedited Review
- Critical bug fix - Your live app has a crash or data loss issue affecting users
- Security vulnerability - You need to patch a security issue immediately
- Time-sensitive event - Your app is tied to a specific date (conference, launch event)
How to Request
- 1 Go to Apple's Expedited Review Request page
- 2 Sign in with your Apple Developer account
- 3 Select your app and build
- 4 Explain your situation clearly and concisely
- 5 Submit and wait for response (usually within hours)
Important Notes
- • Expedited review is not guaranteed—Apple decides on a case-by-case basis
- • Abusing the system will result in requests being ignored
- • "We have a marketing deadline" is generally not accepted
- • Even expedited reviews can take 24-48 hours
Peak Seasons & App Store Connect Freeze
Certain times of year affect review times. Plan your submissions accordingly:
Holiday Freeze (Dec 23-27)
Apple closes App Store Connect for submissions during the Christmas period. Plan to submit before December 20th to ensure approval before the freeze.
Apps approved before the freeze will go live. New submissions during the freeze will queue for review when it reopens.
Slow Periods
- WWDC week (June) - High submission volume after announcements
- iOS release (September) - Developers rush to update for new iOS
- Black Friday week - Pre-holiday submission surge
- New Year (Jan 1-3) - Post-freeze backlog clearing
Fastest Times
- January (mid-month) - Post-holiday calm
- February-April - Generally quiet period
- July-August - Between WWDC and iOS release
- Mid-week submissions - Tue-Thu tend to be faster
Pro Tip: Submission Timing
Submit early in the week (Monday-Wednesday) during US business hours for the fastest turnaround. Apple's review team is based in multiple time zones but the majority of decisions happen during California work hours.
Tips to Speed Up Your Review
Before Submission
- Test thoroughly—crashes extend review time
- Provide demo credentials if login required
- Write clear review notes explaining features
- Complete all metadata fields
- Use accurate age rating
During Submission
- Submit during weekdays (US time)
- Avoid holiday periods
- Choose "Manual release" if you need control
- Don't submit multiple builds rapidly
- Complete export compliance correctly
Tracking Your Review Status
Monitor your app's review progress in App Store Connect:
Waiting for Review
Your app is in the queue. Average wait: 12-24 hours.
In Review
A reviewer is actively examining your app. Usually takes 30 min - 4 hours.
Ready for Sale / Pending Developer Release
Approved! Your app will go live automatically or when you release it.
Rejected
Issues found. Check Resolution Center for details and fix before resubmitting.
Enable Notifications
Make sure your Apple ID has email notifications enabled for App Store Connect. You'll receive updates when your app moves to "In Review" and when a decision is made.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Apple take to review an app in 2025?
Apple reviews most apps within 24 hours. According to Apple's official data, 90% of submissions are reviewed within 24 hours. First-time submissions and complex apps may take 48-72 hours. Updates to existing apps are typically reviewed faster than new submissions.
Why is my app still in "Waiting for Review" after 24 hours?
Some apps take longer if they: use sensitive categories (finance, health, kids), include in-app purchases, are from new developer accounts, or were submitted during peak periods. If it's been more than 7 days, contact Apple Developer support.
Does rejecting and resubmitting reset the review queue position?
No, resubmissions after rejection typically get priority and are reviewed faster (usually within 12-24 hours). Apple wants to help you fix issues and get approved, so they don't penalize you by putting you at the back of the queue.
Can I submit my app on weekends?
Yes, you can submit anytime. However, reviews submitted Friday evening may not begin until Monday, as Apple's review team has reduced capacity on weekends. For fastest turnaround, submit Tuesday-Thursday during US business hours.
How long does TestFlight review take?
TestFlight internal testing requires no review. External TestFlight (up to 10,000 testers) requires an initial review that typically takes 24-48 hours. Subsequent builds usually don't require re-review unless you make significant changes.
What happens during the App Store Connect holiday freeze?
Apple closes App Store Connect for new submissions from approximately December 23-27 each year. Apps already in review will continue being processed, but new submissions queue until the freeze ends. Plan to submit by December 20th if you need approval before Christmas.
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