Immigration Appeal Help

Which decisions can be appealed?

A right of appeal usually exists where the Home Office has refused a human rights or protection claim, and in some other defined cases. Many family visa refusals fall into this group because they involve family life.

The decision notice should say whether you can appeal and how long you have.

Deadlines

Time limits start running when the decision is sent or received and they are short. Missing one can close a route completely. Send the decision for review as soon as you have it.

How an appeal works

• The appeal is lodged with the First-tier Tribunal within the time limit
• Grounds of appeal and evidence are prepared and filed
• The Home Office reviews the case and may respond
• A judge decides the appeal, usually after a hearing
• Either side may be able to seek permission to appeal further on a point of law

Evidence

An appeal is a chance to put the case properly, often with evidence that was not before the original decision-maker.

• Witness statements from you and family members
• Documents answering each reason for refusal
• Evidence of family and private life in the UK
• Expert or country evidence, where relevant

Appealing from outside the UK

People refused entry clearance in Albania, Kosovo or elsewhere can appeal from abroad where a right of appeal exists. Family members in the UK often give evidence at the hearing.

Appeal or new application?

An appeal can take months. In some cases a fresh application is quicker and safer; in others the appeal is the stronger route. That choice should be made before the deadline, not after it.