Having your visa application refused is frustrating and can cost you hundreds of pounds in visa application fees. There are many different explanations for UK Immigration Visa Applications refusal, but by examining the most common reasons, it is possible to avoid making the same mistakes when you submit your application.
As experienced immigration caseworkers, we have advised on hundreds of UK visa and leave to remain applications. We are often instructed by clients who have committed one of the common errors outlined below. When we resubmit the application, it is usually successful; however, our client must pay the application fee twice and the whole process has been far more stressful than it needed to be.
By avoiding the mistakes below, you have a greater chance of having your visa or leave to remain application approved the first time.
Appeal UK Visa Refusal: A Simple Guide to The UK Immigration Appeal Procedure Process
Not Using a Reputable Immigration Law Firm
Getting bad advice from friends and family, and even inexperienced lawyers can lead to mistakes and UK Immigration Visa Applications refusals. Of course, it’s difficult to know what advice is bad advice when you’re not an expert yourself. The key is to only take advice from a well-respected and experienced immigration law solicitor. Check for reviews and client ratings to see how others have found the experience when instructing a solicitor.
You should also ensure that the immigration law firm you use is regulated by an authority such as the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA). You can find this out by viewing the firm’s contact page on their website. They should also have an easily accessible Code of Conduct available and explain their complaints procedure to you.
Getting Advice from Family and Friends
Even though your family and friends are very much about you, they are not the best source for immigration advice. No matter how well-intentioned their guidance is, be careful. Having your visa refused because of bad advice will not serve you well and will cost you money and time.
Another source to avoid when seeking advice is a UK Visa and Immigration (UKVI) staff. It is possible for UKVI staff to misinterpret the Immigration Rules or guidance that apply to your particular circumstances. You are much safer receiving immigration advice from a trusted solicitor who has your best interests at heart.
Insufficient Documentation
Insufficient or incorrect documentation is one of the most common reasons UK visa applications or other immigration-based submissions are refused by UKVI. And given that the present UK government is committed to bringing down the number of migrants coming into the country, it provides caseworkers with the simplest route to refuse a visa. Not having all the required documentation or incorrect documentation can result in an immediate visa refusal.
If you do not have all the documents you need to apply for a visa or leave to remain, we recommend you postpone your application until all documents have been collated. This will save you fees and frustration. Don’t assume that missing documents won’t be noticed – they will be.
It is your responsibility as an applicant to prove your case for visa approval by sending in all the required information to support your claim. Always include original, clear documents, ensuring the immigration official deciding on your application has no cause to refuse you.
Deception and False Information
It does not pay to try and trick UKVI or include false information. Any such actions can result in your visa being refused and a ban on applying again for up to 10 years. There are many applications are being refused under section 322(2), 322(5) and 19 J (iv) citing deception. Always provide honest information in your application. If the information is not true, don’t use it. This is one mistake that can lead to long-term consequences, so be very careful to include truthful information in all areas of your application.
If there are unavoidable inconsistencies in your application, or an issue that you suspect may result in your visa or leave to remain to be refused, speak to our solicitors. We can submit a legal representation to UKVI with your application, explaining your situation and why, under the Immigration Rules and guidance, your application should be approved regardless. This is a far safer option than being dishonest and has a far greater chance of success.
In addition, use wording that is very clear. For example, if you are applying for a Standard Visitor Visa, show that you have carefully planned your trip, have a return ticket, money to support yourself and a place to stay.
Inaccuracy
Mistakes on application forms regularly lead to visa refusals. Failing to include all information on your submission is another cause for a quick rejection. Take the time to check the entire application form and the supporting documentation before you submit them to UKVI. Ensure that dates, names, and personal statements are all accurate and are consistent.
The best way to avoid a mistake costing you a successful application is to have one of our team check over your materials prior to sending them off to UKVI. We know exactly how the forms need to be filled out and what documentation is required for any particular application. It may cost you a little more to have your submission double-checked, but it is an investment worth making to ensure your peace of mind.
There are many reasons UKVI can refuse your visa. Take the time to prepare an accurate, honest and comprehensive application the first time, and you’ll save yourself time, money, and disappointment. Or better still, contact us at the outset of the application process and let us assist you with ensuring your submission is free from errors.
Experts in Successful Visa Applications
Our solicitors at A Y & J Solicitors have years of experience in submitting successful visa applications. We understand the why, how, and what of a great visa application, and we consistently advise and represent clients in all visa categories. For expert help with your visa or leave to remain application, please contact us on +44 20 7404 7933 or email us at contact@ayjsolicitors.com.
Disclaimer: No material/information provided on this website should be construed as legal advice. Readers should seek an appropriate professional advice for their immigration matters.
