A UK visa applicant who faced rejection for a Standard Visitor Visa has successfully secured a reconsideration from the UK Home Office after filing a Pre-Action Protocol (PAP)—a formal legal step before applying for judicial review. The case, shared on Reddit, is drawing attention for shedding light on how visa refusals can be challenged when based on weak or incorrect reasoning.
The individual had applied for a 6-month Standard Visitor Visa to travel to the UK during the Eid al-Adha public holiday in June. However, on May 23, the UK Home Office refused the visa citing two main reasons: the applicant had only recently started a new job in April, which was considered “suspicious” for requesting leave so soon; and the individual’s bank transactions were deemed inconsistent with the declared finances, raising concerns about “misrepresentation.”
In reality, the applicant explained, the trip coincided with national holidays in Turkey, eliminating the need for special leave. The financial discrepancy was also clarified — the applicant had received a one-time large payment in March, which had been spent before May. These details, including an employer letter and payslip, were already submitted during the initial application but seemingly overlooked by visa officers.
Refusing to accept the decision, the applicant filed a PAP on June 13, accompanied by a letter of intent, financial breakdown, and relevant documentation. Just weeks later, the Home Office responded, agreeing to reconsider the refusal — a major win, as the initial rejection is now no longer final.
“I’m now waiting for the final outcome (within 3 months), but this is already a big step forward,” the applicant wrote on Reddit. They encouraged others in similar situations to consider the PAP route: “If your refusal was based on weak or unfair reasons, don’t give up. PAP can work.”