A refusal from UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) can be incredibly stressful, especially when it impacts your life plans. However, if you’ve had your visa application or immigration decision refused, an Administrative Review could be your chance to get the decision overturned. This process allows you to challenge UKVI’s decision without going to court. Here’s what you need to know about the Administrative Review process and how it can help you.
What is an Administrative Review?
An Administrative Review is a process where you can ask UKVI to recheck their decision. If you believe that a mistake was made in the way your application was handled, you can request that the decision be reviewed by a different official. This is not the same as appealing a decision in court—it’s an internal review within UKVI, meant to correct any administrative errors.
There are three main types of Administrative Review:
- In-country decisions: If your application to stay in the UK is refused, you can request a review.
- Entry clearance decisions: If your visa application to enter the UK is refused.
- Decisions at the UK border: If a decision is made at the border regarding your entry into the UK.
The goal is to identify if any errors were made, such as incorrect information or miscalculations, that led to the refusal.
Case Study: How an Administrative Review Helped
Take the case of Ms. A, who applied for an extension to her Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa. She submitted her documents with confidence but was shocked when she received a refusal from UKVI. After feeling discouraged, a friend advised her to consult with an expert immigration solicitor. Upon reviewing her case, it became clear that UKVI had made a mistake by misinterpreting her information.
Her solicitor requested an Administrative Review, presenting a strong case showing that the refusal was based on incorrect information. Just one week later, Ms. A received the good news: the refusal was overturned, and her visa extension was granted. Thanks to the Administrative Review process, she was able to continue growing her business and work toward a settlement in the UK.
How Do I Request an Administrative Review?
If you’ve received a refusal from UKVI, you may be eligible to request an Administrative Review. Here’s what you need to know:
- Check the timeframe: You usually have 14 or 28 days from the date you received the refusal to apply for a review, depending on whether your decision was made inside or outside the UK.
- Review the decision notice: UKVI should send you a written notice explaining why your application was refused, along with instructions on how to request an Administrative Review.
- Make the request: The request must be submitted in writing and within the timeframe specified. You can only request one review per decision unless new reasons for refusal are given.
- What if you can’t apply?: If you’ve already signed a waiver form, or if you’ve made a new application for entry clearance during the review period, you won’t be able to apply for an Administrative Review.
Tips for a Successful Administrative Review
- Act Quickly: Time is limited, so it’s important to start the process as soon as possible. You only have 14 or 28 days from the decision date to request a review.
- Get Professional Help: An experienced immigration solicitor can help you understand your case, identify the errors, and present a strong argument for the review.
- Provide Evidence: Make sure you submit all the relevant supporting documents that show why the original decision was wrong. Your solicitor can help you gather the correct evidence.
- Be Clear and Professional: Ensure that all your communications with UKVI are respectful, clear, and professional.
You will typically receive a response within 28 days after submitting your review request.
How Law and Visas Can Help
At Law and Visas, we understand how devastating it can be to receive a refusal from UKVI. We’ve successfully helped many clients challenge decisions through the Administrative Review process, ensuring they can move forward with their immigration plans.
If your visa application was refused, we can:
- Review the details of the decision and identify any errors.
- Prepare and submit your Administrative Review request on time.
- Present a strong case and provide the necessary evidence to show that the original decision was incorrect.
Don’t face a UKVI refusal alone. Contact Law and Visas today to discuss your case and find out how we can help you get the right result.
