British Naturalisation Solicitors

What is Administrative Review?

Administrative Review in the United Kingdom is a formal process designed to challenge visa refusals when applicants believe the refusal decision was based on a factual error, misinterpretation of evidence, or incorrect application of immigration laws. It allows applicants to request a review from the same authority that made the original decision, typically the UK Home Office, without needing to go to a tribunal or court. This option provides a faster and more cost-effective route for resolving unjust visa refusals compared to appeals or judicial reviews.

Eligibility Criteria

Applications eligible for consideration include those in the Skilled Worker (Tier 2), Student (Tier 4), Entrepreneur (Tier 1), Investor (Tier 1) visa categories, as well as Indefinite Leave to Remain (PBS ILR) under the points-based system.

You may qualify to request this review if:

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You applied for a visa under the UK points-based system (such as Skilled Worker Visa or Student Visa) and it was refused.

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You had your visa curtailed or cancelled and dispute the reasons for this action.

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You believe an error was made in calculating your points or in assessing your documentation.

Applications eligible for consideration include those in the Skilled Worker (Tier 2), Student (Tier 4), Entrepreneur (Tier 1), Investor (Tier 1) visa categories, as well as Indefinite Leave to Remain (PBS ILR) under the points-based system.

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Common Scenarios Where Administrative Review Applies

Administrative Review is commonly requested in cases where:

Points Miscalculation:

The applicant believes that the Home Office incorrectly awarded fewer points for qualifications, employment certificates, or other criteria under the points-based system.

Genuine Error in Documentation Review:

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Applicants must prove they are in a genuine and subsisting marriage, civil partnership, or long-term relationship with their UK-based sponsor.

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If not already married, the couple should be planning to marry or enter a civil partnership within 6 months of the visa being granted (for Fiancé Visas transitioning to Spouse Visas).

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Generally, evidence of living together in a relationship akin to marriage for at least 2 years prior to application can support the claim.

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Acceptable evidence includes marriage certificates, shared financial responsibilities, communication records, or proof of cohabitation.

Mistakes in Interpreting Financial Evidence:

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Applicants must prove they are in a genuine and subsisting marriage, civil partnership, or long-term relationship with their UK-based sponsor.

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If not already married, the couple should be planning to marry or enter a civil partnership within 6 months of the visa being granted (for Fiancé Visas transitioning to Spouse Visas).

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Generally, evidence of living together in a relationship akin to marriage for at least 2 years prior to application can support the claim.

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Acceptable evidence includes marriage certificates, shared financial responsibilities, communication records, or proof of cohabitation.

Incorrect Application of Immigration Rules:

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Applicants must prove they are in a genuine and subsisting marriage, civil partnership, or long-term relationship with their UK-based sponsor.

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If not already married, the couple should be planning to marry or enter a civil partnership within 6 months of the visa being granted (for Fiancé Visas transitioning to Spouse Visas).

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Generally, evidence of living together in a relationship akin to marriage for at least 2 years prior to application can support the claim.

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Acceptable evidence includes marriage certificates, shared financial responsibilities, communication records, or proof of cohabitation.

When requesting an Administrative Review, applicants should ensure that they provide all necessary documents and evidence to support their claim. This can include additional documentation or clarification of the information provided in the initial visa application. Our administrative review solicitors in London can assist you in preparing a strong case for review and ensuring that all necessary evidence is included.

Process of Administrative Review

Receive the Refusal Notice:
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Upon refusal or curtailment, a written notice will state the reasons for the decision and confirm whether you’re eligible for an Administrative Review.

Submit the Application for Review:
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You must formally apply for the Administrative Review using the appropriate online system or form specified by the Home Office. This application must typically be submitted within:

  • 14 days of receiving the decision if you’re in the UK.
  • 28 days if you’re outside the UK.
Provide Grounds for Review:
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Clearly outline and explain why you believe the decision was incorrect, referencing specific errors made by the Home Office. Supporting evidence that highlights these errors may strengthen your case but must be limited to the evidence already submitted with the original application.

Home Office Review:
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A different Home Office caseworker, who was not involved in the original decision, will re-evaluate the application and the grounds for review. They will focus on identifying and addressing potential mistakes made in the decision-making process.

Outcome of the Review:
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The result of the Administrative Review may:

  • Uphold the original refusal.
  • Overturn the refusal and approve the visa (if errors are identified and corrected).
  • Lead to a request for additional action, such as requesting missing information that was improperly excluded during the review.

Decisions on Administrative Reviews are typically issued within 28 days. However, complexities and backlogs may occasionally lead to delays.

Countries Whose Citizens are Commonwealth Citizens

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Antigua and Barbuda
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Australia
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Bahamas
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Bangladesh
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Barbados
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Belize
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Botswana
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Brunei
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Cameroon
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Canada
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Cyprus
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Dominica
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Eswatini
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Fiji
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Gabon
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Gambia
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Ghana
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Grenada
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Guyana
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India
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Jamaica
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Kenya
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Kiribati
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Lesotho
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Malawi
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Malaysia
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Maldives
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Malta
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Mauritius
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Mozambi que
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Namibia
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Nauru
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New Zealand
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Nigeria
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Pakistan
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Papua New Guinea
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Rwanda
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Samoa
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Seychelles
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Sierra Leone
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Singapore
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Solomon Islands
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South Africa
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Sri Lanka
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St Kitts and Nevis
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St Lucia
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St Vincent and the Grenadines
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Tanzania
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Togo
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Tonga
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Trinidad and Tobago
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Tuvalu
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Uganda
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Vanuatu
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Zambia

The Importance of Professional Legal Assistance

Although Administrative Review may sound straightforward, the process is highly technical. Success depends on clearly identifying the specific legal or factual mistakes made by the Home Office and crafting a strong and persuasive argument to support your case. Here’s where professional legal guidance from our UK administrative review lawyers comes into play:

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Assessing the Refusal Decision: Immigration solicitors can help you carefully analyze the grounds for refusal to determine whether the decision is reviewable through Administrative Review or if an alternative pathway is more appropriate.

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Preparing a Strong Submission: With expertise in immigration law, our solicitors can craft a well-structured application that clearly communicates the errors in the original decision and aligns with Home Office requirements.

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Avoiding Procedural Errors: Mistakes in submitting the application or presenting your argument can weaken your request for review or lead to further delays. Professional assistance ensures accuracy and adherence to deadlines.

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Advising on Next Steps: If the Administrative Review is unsuccessful, our lawyers can guide you through other options, such as reapplying or pursuing legal appeals

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How Much Does Administrative Review Cost?

The Home Office fees for an Administrative Review are £80 per person, which must be paid online. You may also be required to pay for additional legal assistance, but investing in professional  epresentation can save you time and money in the long run.

Why Act Quickly?

Deadlines for Administrative Review are strict, and missing these periods forfeits your chance to challenge the decision. Acting promptly and consulting experts ensures your rights are preserved and the best course of action is taken for your immigration needs.
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Expert UK Administrative Review Solicitors at Your Service

Don’t risk navigating the challenging administrative review process alone. Contact Ali & Barrow Solicitors today—your trusted UK administrative review lawyers. Our experienced team will analyse your case, identify errors in the refusal decision, and build a strong submission to secure the outcome you deserve. Time is critical, so act now to protect your rights and move one step closer to achieving your immigration goals.

Contact us now!
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