A clear starting point
Understand your decision, available appeal rights and the evidence needed for the next step. This page sets out the questions to consider before choosing an application and paying any charges.
People who have received an immigration decision carrying a right of appeal. The correct approach depends on the exact permission, application location and immigration history involved. A similar-looking case may be subject to a different rule or transitional arrangement.
Who is this for?
People who have received an immigration decision carrying a right of appeal.
General eligibility and requirements
The decision notice identifies whether an appeal is available and the relevant deadline. The scope and evidence depend on the decision and legal basis. Urgent specialist assessment may be necessary.
Check the current official guidance for the intended submission date. If you have a previous refusal, an approaching expiry date or a change in circumstances, include that in your initial enquiry. These details may affect what is possible and how urgently you need advice.
Supporting documents
A useful evidence file addresses the specific requirements, with clear dates and consistent personal details. Depending on your circumstances, the following may be relevant:
- Complete decision notice
- date and method of receipt
- original application and evidence
- immigration history
- new evidence relevant to the grounds of appeal
This is a preparation list, not an exhaustive submission checklist. Check required formats, relevant evidence periods and translation requirements. Keep an exact copy of the final application and evidence. See our document preparation guide for a practical way to organise your records.
The application process
- Preserve the complete decision and evidence of when it was received. Identify the stated appeal right, venue, deadline and any immediate status consequences.
- Review the refusal against the original submission. Obtain appropriate representation and prepare grounds and evidence within the permitted scope of the appeal.
- Follow tribunal directions and evidence deadlines. Keep contact details current and review the determination promptly for any further deadline or required immigration step.
For appeals, protection and employer compliance matters, the relevant procedure may be a review, tribunal process or ongoing duty rather than a visa application. The official source below identifies the appropriate starting point.
Government fees & processing times
Check the current figures before you apply
Charges and decision estimates depend on the application, where it is made and any optional service. Numerical fees and processing times have not been independently verified for this page, so none are quoted here. Follow the official guidance rather than relying on historic prices.
View the official GOV.UK guidanceProfessional fees are separate from government charges. Ask for a written quote confirming scope, any VAT, exclusions and additional costs. Our fees information explains what to clarify. Paying for a faster service does not guarantee approval or a decision by a particular date.
Common issues to consider
Missing a deadline, sending only part of the refusal and assuming all visa refusals carry a full appeal right.
Where a record is missing or inconsistent, explain the issue honestly and establish which evidence can address it. Do not amend a document to make it appear to meet a requirement. For help preparing for a discussion, read our consultation preparation guide.
Frequently asked questions
Does every refusal have a right of appeal?
No. Some decisions provide administrative review, an appeal or another remedy; others may require a fresh application or specialist public-law advice. Read the notice first.
What should I include in my first enquiry?
Mention that you are enquiring about immigration appeals, your current country and any important dates. Keep the first message brief and do not attach identity, financial or medical documents.
Can you confirm the outcome before I apply?
No. Decisions depend on the applicable requirements, the evidence and the decision-maker. An initial enquiry does not establish eligibility, reserve a consultation or create an adviser-client relationship.
How do I request a consultation?
Use the consultation form to prepare a brief message, then copy it into our WhatsApp chat. Ask for confirmation of availability, who will provide the advice, the scope and any fee before instructing.
Official starting point: GOV.UK — Immigration appeals. This website is independent of the UK government.