A refusal letter, read line by line

A refusal letter is written for a file, not for a person. Read in order, it tells you exactly what went wrong and what you can do next.

The opening paragraphs

These set out what you applied for and the rules the caseworker applied. Check them first. Applications are sometimes decided under the wrong route, and that alone can be grounds to challenge.

The reasons

Each reason should point to a specific rule and a specific piece of evidence. Look for reasons that ignore a document you sent, or that rely on a rule that does not apply to you. Those are the strongest points.

The last page: your rights and your deadline

The final section says whether you have a right of appeal, a right to an administrative review, or neither. It also gives the deadline, which can be as short as 14 days. Write that date down today.

Appeal, review or apply again?

Sometimes a fresh, stronger application is faster and cheaper than a challenge. Send us the letter and we tell you which route makes sense, in writing, before you pay anything.