An Indian couple has successfully obtained their UK visitor visa after facing an initial rejection—a journey they documented in detail on Reddit to help others avoid the same pitfalls. Their first visa application was refused due to improper documentation and unexplained financial details, largely attributed to errors by their travel agent. But with a carefully prepared second application, the couple received approval and is now set to travel to the UK to attend a cousin’s wedding.
What was the reason for rejection first time?
The major reason for the first rejection was a mismatch between declared income and available savings. The applicant had a last filed Income Tax Return (ITR) of ₹5.5 lakh but showed a savings account balance of ₹28 lakh. This discrepancy raised red flags for the visa officer, who suspected the funds may have been borrowed temporarily to create a false impression of financial strength.
Determined to clear any doubts, the couple reapplied with stronger documentation. They included a source of funds certificate from a Chartered Accountant and a death certificate of the applicant’s late mother to explain part of the inheritance that contributed to their savings. This transparency helped dispel the suspicion around the large account balance.
Additionally, the couple strengthened their case by attaching documents that showed strong home ties, including:
- Property ownership papers
- Business registration documents
- Mutual fund investment statements
- Credit card usage history
- Family dependents
- NOC and salary slips (if employed)
These elements helped establish that they had genuine reasons to return to India after their short visit to the UK.
Key Takeaways from Their Experience
- Avoid large, sudden deposits before applying for a visa.
- Provide clear, documented proof of how your savings were accumulated.
- Highlight strong ties to your home country to show your intent to return.
- Don’t rely solely on travel agents—double-check your documents.
This story serves as a useful guide for others applying for a UK visitor visa, especially those funding their own travel. With transparency, detailed documentation, and a strong cover letter, rejections can be turned into approvals.