Administrative Review (AR)

What it is: A request for the Home Office to reconsider its decision based on a case working error (e.g., misinterpretation of evidence, failure to apply the correct policy).

When to use: For most in‑country refusals (extensions, switching, ILR) and some entry clearance refusals (visitor, student, work visas).

Time limit: Usually 14 calendar days from the date of the refusal decision (7 days if detained).

Key points:

• You cannot submit new evidence (except in limited circumstances).
• The review is conducted by a different Home Office caseworker.
• Success depends on proving a mistake was made in the original decision.

We draft detailed AR submissions identifying the specific errors and referencing the correct law and policy.

Immigration Appeal (First‑Tier Tribunal)

What it is: A full hearing before an independent Immigration Judge who can overturn the Home Office decision.

When to use: For refusals that carry a right of appeal (mainly family visas, human rights claims, protection claims).

Time limit: Usually 14 days (in‑country) or 28 days (entry clearance) from the date of the decision.

Key points:

• You can submit new evidence and witness statements.
• You (and your sponsor) can give oral evidence at the hearing.
• The judge applies the law independently of the Home Office.

We prepare your appeal bundle, draft witness statements, instruct barristers where appropriate, and represent you at the hearing.

Judicial Review (JR)

What it is: A challenge to the lawfulness of the decision‑making process (e.g., procedural unfairness, irrational decision, failure to follow policy).

When to use: When there is no right of appeal and Administrative Review is not available or has been exhausted.

Time limit: Promptly and in any event within 3 months of the decision.

Key points:

• JR is not a re‑run of the merits; it focuses on legality.
• You need permission from the Upper Tribunal or High Court to proceed.
• If successful, the decision is quashed, and the Home Office must reconsider.

We assess whether JR grounds exist, draft pre‑action protocol letters, and instruct specialist public law barristers where needed.

Fresh Application with Strengthened Evidence

What it is: Submitting a new application that addresses the reasons for the previous refusal.

When to use: When the refusal was due to evidential gaps rather than legal errors, or when challenge routes are unlikely to succeed.

Key points:

• You can include new, stronger evidence.
• You must pay the Home Office fee again.
• You must still meet all eligibility requirements at the date of the new application.

We review the refusal reasons, identify what evidence was missing, and help you build a robust new application.