UK Work Visa Refusal Guide
What to Do Next

A refusal is not the end. Many applicants succeed on a second attempt with better preparation.

Most Common Reasons for Refusal

Salary below threshold
£41,700 general rule or going rate
Wrong SOC code
Occupation code doesn't match role
English language fail
Test not accepted or score too low
Insufficient funds
Maintenance funds not held for 28 days
Incomplete application
Missing documents or incorrect forms
Late application
Applied after previous visa expired

Option 1: Administrative Review

Request a review if you believe the Home Office made a case‑working error.

Eligibility: Only available for certain refusals (check your refusal letter).
Deadline: 14 days from receiving the refusal decision.

Administrative review does NOT allow you to submit new evidence. Only review of the original application.

Option 2: Fresh Application

Address the reasons for refusal and reapply. Most applicants choose this option.

Before reapplying:
  • Carefully read the refusal notice
  • Fix the specific issue (e.g., higher salary, correct SOC code)
  • Gather additional supporting documents
  • Consider professional advice

You will need to pay application fees again. A fresh application is a completely new submission.

Option 3: Switch to a Different Visa Category

If the Skilled Worker visa is not viable, consider:

  • Graduate visa (if you studied in the UK)
  • Health & Care Worker visa (if eligible)
  • Scale‑up Worker visa
  • High Potential Individual visa (top university graduates)
Compare All Work Visas →

Immediate Steps to Take After Refusal

1

Read the refusal notice carefully

Understand exactly why you were refused.

2

Calculate your deadlines

Administrative review: 14 days. Fresh application: before visa expires (if applicable).

3

Consult an immigration expert

We can analyse your refusal and recommend the best next step.

4

Prepare your next application

Fix the issue, gather stronger evidence.

How We Can Help After a Refusal

  • Review your refusal notice in detail
  • Identify the specific weakness in your application
  • Recommend whether to apply for Administrative Review or fresh application
  • Help you gather stronger supporting evidence
  • Prepare a fresh, error‑free application

Visa Refused? Don't Give Up.

We have helped many clients overturn refusals or succeed on a second application.

Get Refusal Review Book Consultation

On This Page

Common Refusal ReasonsAdministrative ReviewFresh Application

Related Guides

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