Administrative review is a process for challenging immigration decisions where you believe the caseworker made an error. It is not an appeal — it is a review by a different caseworker to check whether the original decision was correct based on the evidence available.
You must submit your administrative review request within 28 calendar days of receiving your refusal decision. This deadline is strict — late requests are rejected. Contact us immediately if you’ve received a refusal.
Administrative review is a mechanism introduced to replace the full right of appeal for most points-based system decisions. A different, senior caseworker reviews your case to check whether the original decision maker made an error.
Administrative review is a mechanism introduced to replace the full right of appeal for most points-based system decisions. A different, senior caseworker reviews your case to check whether the original decision maker made an error.
Admin review is available for refusals of most points-based system applications, including:
Whether the caseworker miscalculated points or salary
• Whether submitted evidence was overlooked
• Whether the wrong immigration rule was applied
• Whether factual errors were made about your case
• Whether the correct fee was acknowledged
If the reviewer identifies an error, the original decision is withdrawn and your application is reconsidered or approved. If no error is found:
Choose admin review if: You believe the caseworker made a clear error (miscalculation, overlooked evidence) and you want a fast resolution. Admin review costs £80 (refunded if successful).
Choose a fresh application if: Your circumstances have changed or you have new evidence to submit. This gives you a clean start with a complete new assessment.
Choose judicial review if: Both admin review and the original decision were unlawful, irrational, or procedurally unfair. This is a more complex and costly route but can be powerful.
Admin review is a request for a different caseworker to check whether the original decision contained a caseworker error. An appeal is heard by an independent judge at the First-Tier Tribunal who can consider the merits of your case afresh. Admin review is faster but more limited in scope.
The Home Office aims to complete admin reviews within 28 working days for in-country applications. Overseas applications may take longer. Priority service is not available for admin reviews.
A caseworker error includes: miscalculating points or salary, failing to consider evidence that was submitted, applying the wrong immigration rule, or making a factual mistake about your circumstances.
No. Admin review only considers whether the original decision was wrong based on the evidence that was available at the time. If you have new evidence, you may need to submit a fresh application instead.
Contact us immediately for expert advice on whether admin review is the right route for your case.
