This month we are seeing a number of applicants seeking our assistance because they have been served a refusal notice by the Home Office (UKVI) for various reasons.  

Refusals for basic errors on visa application forms

Submitting a visa application with mistakes may lead to an even longer wait time until a decision is reached and in a worst-case scenario it could lead to a refusal of your application which could result in the loss of some UKVI fees, not to mention the possibility of becoming an overstayer in the UK if you have no extant leave remaining.

You may be served a refusal notice by UKVI for the following reasons:

1. Selecting the ‘eligible for the Health and Care visa’ question in error when applying for a sponsored worker application and failing to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge which results in the visa refusal.
2. Financials – having funds available but not providing the correct documentation where necessary, for example a bank statement showing the availability of funds for 28 consecutive days with the funds not falling below the required amount during those 28 days.

UKVI is likely to write out to applicants for information if there are:

• Inconsistencies in the UKVI visa application including misinformation, errors, or omissions.
• Any discrepancies identified in the submitted documents.
• An unusual gap in employment history of 6-8 years which might lead to UKVI requesting an interview.
• For student visas, switching to a course significantly different from their previous field of study.

UKVI will refuse an application without giving a candidate the option to share information in the following circumstances:

• If you have been previously excluded or deported
• If your presence in the UK is not conducive to the public good because of your conduct, character, associations, or other reasons.
• If you have received a custodial prison sentence of 12 months or longer, or you are a persistent offender or committed an offence that caused serious harm.
• If you have been excluded from asylum or humanitarian protection grounds.

Home Office Entry Clearance Officers (ECOs) often have discretion on whether to accept or refuse an application based on their judgement of each individual situation.

Although mistakes on a visa application can lead to a decision to refuse, once this becomes apparent, it is important to correct the mistake with UKVI. We recommend contacting a regulated immigration advisor who can provide advice and make representations on your behalf.

What you can do:

If you find that you have made a substantial mistake in your application, it might be preferable to withdraw your application and request a refund prior to attending a biometric appointment to avoid losing all your fees.

Contact us

If you would like any advice on processing your visa application, please don't hesitate to get in touch with our immigration law expert team.