PBS Refusals & Admin Reviews

PBS Refusals & Admin Reviews

Immigration Appeal & Judicial Review Experts

Challenging Unfair Home Office Decisions with Expert Case Preparation

PBS Refusals & Administrative Reviews – Challenging Home Office Errors

If your UK visa application under the Points-Based System (PBS) has been refused, you may still have the right to challenge the decision through an Administrative Review or, in some cases, a Judicial Review. At The McKenzie Friend, we provide expert support to identify, challenge, and overturn incorrect Home Office refusals quickly and effectively.

Our experienced immigration specialists analyse your refusal letter, pinpoint caseworker mistakes, and prepare a detailed representation to ensure your case is reconsidered fairly and accurately.


Understanding Administrative Reviews

An Administrative Review (AR) allows applicants to request a formal re-examination of their visa decision if they believe the refusal was based on a caseworking error. This is not a full appeal — it is a process where the Home Office internally reviews your case to correct mistakes in law or fact.

Administrative Reviews are available for a range of Points-Based System visa categories, including:

  • Skilled Worker Visa refusals
  • Student Visa refusals
  • Graduate Visa refusals
  • Health and Care Worker Visa refusals
  • Global Talent and Innovator visa refusals

Common Grounds for Administrative Review

  • Caseworker failed to consider submitted evidence
  • Incorrect interpretation of immigration rules or guidance
  • Errors in the calculation of points or eligibility requirements
  • Failure to apply discretion or consider exceptional circumstances
  • Procedural errors or breaches of fairness in decision-making

Administrative Review Deadlines

It’s critical to act quickly. The deadlines for requesting an Administrative Review are:

  • 14 days from the date of refusal (if you’re inside the UK)
  • 28 days from the date of refusal (if you’re outside the UK)

Missing the deadline can mean losing your right to challenge the decision entirely.


Judicial Review for PBS Decisions

If your Administrative Review is unsuccessful, or if no AR option is available, you may still have the right to pursue a Judicial Review (JR). This process allows a higher court to examine whether the Home Office acted unlawfully, unreasonably, or unfairly when deciding your case.

Our legal experts can help you prepare a pre-action letter, compile evidence, and manage the entire Judicial Review process to challenge unfair outcomes.


Our Services Include:

  • Review and analysis of your refusal notice and case documents
  • Drafting and submission of Administrative Review requests
  • Preparation of strong legal representations and evidence
  • Pre-action and full Judicial Review support when necessary
  • Strategic advice on reapplying or strengthening future applications

Why Choose The McKenzie Friend?

  • Proven track record in successful Administrative Reviews and reversals
  • Detailed error identification and evidence-based case preparation
  • Affordable, transparent pricing with no hidden costs
  • Fast, reliable support with strict attention to Home Office deadlines

Act Fast to Challenge a Visa Refusal

If your visa has been refused, don’t reapply blindly — your case may simply need an Administrative Review. Let our experts identify the Home Office error and help you secure the positive outcome you deserve.

Get in Touch

Contact

We offer a free 30‑minute consultation to understand your case and recommend next steps.

Office

155 Maybury Road, Woking, Surrey, GU215JR

Contact

info@mckenziefriend.net

Open Hours

Monday-Sunday 9 am - 8 pm

Frequently Asked Questions – PBS Refusals & Administrative Reviews

What is an Administrative Review?

An Administrative Review is a process that allows you to challenge a Home Office decision if you believe a caseworking error was made in your visa refusal. It’s not a full appeal but a review of the decision’s accuracy.

Can I submit new evidence during an Administrative Review?

No, new evidence cannot usually be submitted unless it directly relates to an error made by the caseworker. However, The McKenzie Friend can help present existing evidence more effectively within your review request.

How long does an Administrative Review take?

The process usually takes up to 28 days from submission, though complex cases may take longer depending on the Home Office backlog.

What if my Administrative Review is refused?

If your AR is unsuccessful, you may be able to apply for a Judicial Review to challenge the lawfulness of the decision or consider reapplying with stronger evidence.

Can I travel or work during an Administrative Review?

If you are in the UK, you must not travel while your Administrative Review is pending — doing so may withdraw your application automatically. You can usually remain in the UK lawfully until a decision is made.

How can The McKenzie Friend help?

We provide full support — from identifying caseworker errors and drafting professional AR submissions to managing judicial review preparation if required. Our goal is to get your decision overturned efficiently and successfully.