At Lisa’s Law Solicitors, our immigration team recently achieved success for a client whose UK visitor visa application was wrongly refused – despite his genuine circumstances and extensive supporting documentation.
Background
Our client, a Chinese national living and working in New Zealand, wanted to visit his elderly parents in the UK with his young son. His mother is seriously ill and unable to travel, so the visit was incredibly important to him and his family.
However, the client faced a big challenge – he had four previous visa refusals over the years, including both visitor and work visa applications. Despite this, he was determined to make a genuine visit to see his parents and applied for a standard UK visitor visa again in August 2024.
The Refusal
To his disappointment, the Home Office refused his visa application, claiming that he had not shown proof of his right to stay in New Zealand and that he had no family ties there.
This was completely incorrect – the client had in fact submitted his valid New Zealand work visa and provided evidence that his wife and home were based there. The visitor visa refusal clearly showed that the caseworker had not properly reviewed the documents.
How Lisa’s Law Helped
Our experienced caseworker at Lisa’s Law immediately identified that the decision was unreasonable and unfair. We took prompt legal action by submitting a Pre-Action Protocol (PAP) letter to the Home Office, which is a formal step before starting a judicial review. This PAP letter set out exactly how the decision breached immigration rules and fairness.
In the PAP letter, we highlighted that:
- The Home Office failed to review key evidence properly;
- The client clearly met the “genuine visitor” requirements, with a stable job and home in New Zealand;
- His wife would remain in New Zealand while he visited the UK, showing strong reasons to return; and
- His financial situation was well-documented, with funds from both himself and his family sponsor in the UK.
We also guided the client to prepare detailed explanations and documentary evidence for each of his previous refusals. This helped the Home Office see the full picture and understand that the past issues were unrelated to his current, genuine circumstances.
The Outcome
Following our intervention, the Home Office reconsidered and overturned the decision and the visitor visa was granted. Our client was finally able to visit his parents in the UK after years of refusals and uncertainty.
This case demonstrates how careful preparation and strong legal representation can make all the difference.
Visitor Visas: Why Expert Help Matters
Many people think a UK visitor visa is simple to apply for, however that’s not always the case. Visitor visas are discretionary, meaning that even with the right documents, it’s ultimately up to the Home Office caseworker to decide whether they believe an applicant is a “genuine visitor.”
To strengthen your application, you must be ready to provide:
- Full financial evidence showing you can fund your trip,
- Proof of family and employment ties to your home country, and
- A clear explanation of your travel purpose and plans to return home.
At Lisa’s Law Solicitors, we know how to present your story effectively, highlight key evidence, and challenge unfair decisions when necessary.
Conclusion
This case is a perfect example of how persistence and professional legal support can turn things around, even after multiple refusals.
If you have had a UK visa refused or believe your application wasn’t fairly assessed, get in touch with Lisa’s Law Solicitors today. Our experienced immigration team is here to guide you every step of the way.
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