Why UK visa applications get refused.

Why UK visa applications get refused. Image credit: AdobeStock

Why UK visa applications get refused

(Partner Content) Breytenbachs Immigration Consultants increasingly have to deal with appeals and review cases from clients who have submitted their own UK visa applications that were refused.

Why UK visa applications get refused.

Why UK visa applications get refused. Image credit: AdobeStock

One could, of course, understand that during these difficult financial times caused by Covid-19, many people want to save where they can. However, one has to consider whether the possibility of losing the very expensive Home Office application fee when an application is refused is worth it. 

Readers often think that applying for a UK visa is a straightforward process. Unfortunately, this is not the case. The circumstances of every case differ, and it is dangerous to follow the advice of colleagues, friends or social media when submitting a visa application.  There is no ‘one size fits all’ solution when it comes to immigration. Furthermore, the circumstances of every person and family differ, and there is a vast choice of immigration routes that might be more suitable. So, it might be best to spend a little more by getting advice from an immigration consultant, to ensure the best immigration route to citizenship, and the best chance of an approved visa application. 

Our consultants have compiled a list of reasons why the visas of persons who submit visa applications themselves are often refused. 

  • Wishful thinking 

Persons often think that the Home Office will be lenient in their consideration of a visa application. Unfortunately, this is not the case.  For example, if the Home Office requires proof of a specific amount for a specific period, one will have to prove that fact. The Home Office caseworkers have very specific guidance that they have to follow and do not have the type of discretion to be lenient in their decision on specific requirements. 

  • Specific evidential requirements 

The Home Office requires one to not only qualify for a visa or permit but more importantly, to prove it in a very specific way. Applicants often come unstuck because they fail to provide all of the correct evidence or have provided evidence which does seem to prove the fact, but which does not actually meet with the Home Office’s very specific evidential requirements. The effect is that the application is refused and the client loses the application fee. 

  • Applying for the wrong type of visa 

Unbelievably, many persons apply for the wrong type of visa. The many Home Office forms and paperwork can be confusing for persons who do not deal with it every day. 

  • Lying or omitting details

Many persons think that they can lie about previous immigration issues, or simply omit these details.  However, the Home Office has checks and balances in place, and fact checks the background of several details, especially when persons have to fulfil the ‘good character’ requirement. In cases where you had any previous immigration issues or overstayed on your visa, we strongly recommend that you seek advice from an immigration expert, as not all cases are lost. Never lie on your visa application, you will be found out!

  • Correct documents are not supplied 

It is important that the correct documents required are supplied. Furthermore, every application will require different documentary evidence. That is why it is so important not to listen to second-hand advice. The same paperwork is not applicable in every case, and the paperwork for every case will differ. It is extremely important that there are no omissions of documents. 

  • Omitting documents required 

It is important that there are no omissions of documents. Visas are also sometimes refused due to the Home Office’s restrictions on when new evidence can be introduced and taken into consideration. You must submit all the required documents with the initial application, as the Home Office will not contact you to request documents you forgot to submit!

  • Following unqualified advice 

Unfortunately, there are also cases where persons went through the trouble to get immigration advice but got the wrong advice. Please make sure that you are not in the hands of a fly-by-night agency. Make sure you use reputable and where applicable registered immigration advice. (In the UK all immigration consultants have to be regulated by the OISC or a member of the Law Society etc.)

How Breytenbachs can help you

Breytenbachs Immigration Consultants Limited has its head office in London and is registered with the Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner in the UK to Level 3. We can provide UK immigration advice up to the most complex cases, including Appeals and Reviews. 

Contact us today, and let us help you plan your journey to British citizenship. For more information, please send an email to info@bic-immigration.com or visit the Breytenbachs website at www.bic-immigration.com 

Please note that the information in this article does not constitute professional advice. It is provided for general information purposes, without giving any warranty of any kind, either expressed or implied.