Made a Mistake on Your UK Visa Application? What to Do Next

Applying for a UK visa is one of the most important steps you’ll take if you want to live, work, study, or join family in the United Kingdom. It’s a detailed process where every piece of information matters. The Home Office and UKVI rely on the details you provide to make a decision about your application.

But what happens if you’ve spotted an error after you’ve submitted your form? Whether it’s a typo in your name, an incorrect date, or something more serious like missed immigration history, mistakes on a UK visa application can have real consequences. The good news is that there are steps you can take to fix the problem.

In this guide, we’ll walk through common UK visa mistakes, what happens when they occur, and how you can correct them.

Why Accuracy Matters in a UK Visa Application

When you apply for a visa, your application is assessed against strict immigration rules. Small errors can sometimes be ignored, but more significant ones can lead to refusal. In some cases, a mistake can even be seen as dishonesty.

The key reasons accuracy is so important include:

• Processing delays: Incorrect details may mean UKVI needs extra checks, slowing down your application.
• Visa refusal: If the information provided doesn’t meet the visa requirements, your application could be rejected.
• Future applications: Past errors can affect your immigration history, making future applications harder.
• Legal consequences: Deliberate false information may lead to a ban of up to 10 years.

Put simply, accuracy protects your immigration journey and saves you time, stress, and money.

Can You Correct a Mistake on a UK Visa Application?

The answer depends on where you are in the application process.

Before Submission

If you haven’t yet paid the fee or pressed submit, you can log back into your account and correct any details. Double-check names, dates, and documents carefully before final submission.

After Submission but Before Biometrics

If you’ve paid and submitted your form but haven’t yet attended your biometrics appointment, you may still be able to fix errors. UKVI sometimes allows small corrections if you contact them quickly. For major mistakes, you may need to withdraw and start again.

After Biometrics

Once you’ve given your fingerprints and photo, it becomes harder to amend details. In most cases, you’ll need to wait for the decision. If the mistake leads to a refusal, you may be able to request an administrative review or submit a fresh application.

After Visa Approval

If the mistake is on your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) or visa vignette, you must report it to UKVI as soon as possible. For example, if your date of birth or name is wrong, this can cause issues when proving your status in the UK.

Common Mistakes in UK Visa Applications

Even careful applicants sometimes make errors. Some of the most common include:

• Typos or spelling errors in names or addresses
• Incorrect dates for travel history, employment, or education
• Wrong financial figures, such as overstating income or missing bank statements
• Omitting previous visa refusals or immigration history
• Submitting the wrong documents, for example expired bank statements or missing translations
• Not declaring medical conditions or failing to mention NHS treatment debts

While some mistakes are harmless, others can be taken seriously if they affect eligibility.

What Happens if You Made a Mistake on Your Visa Application?

The outcome depends on the type of mistake.

Minor Errors

Simple spelling mistakes or small typos often don’t affect the decision. Caseworkers are expected to use common sense if the error doesn’t impact eligibility.

Significant Errors

If the mistake changes how your application is assessed — for example, entering £40,000 income instead of £4,000 — it could lead to refusal.

Refusals and Reviews

If your application is refused, you may be able to apply for an administrative review within 28 days. This costs £80 and can take months. If the refusal was based on missing information, reapplying may be quicker.

Risks of Being Seen as Deceptive

The most serious outcome is when UKVI believes the mistake was deliberate. This could mean your visa is refused, revoked, or you’re banned from entering the UK for up to 10 years.

Lying vs Genuine Mistakes – Key Differences

Not all mistakes are treated equally.

• Genuine errors: Typos, wrong dates, or misunderstandings. If explained promptly, these are often forgiven.
• Deception: Intentionally hiding a criminal conviction, past visa refusal, or using false documents.

Even silence can count as deception. For example, failing to disclose past immigration history may be treated as withholding information.

The consequences of deception are severe:

• Automatic refusal or cancellation of your visa
• Risk of detention and removal at the border
• Long-term bans and negative immigration history

That’s why it’s always best to address mistakes quickly and honestly.

How to Correct a Mistake on a UK Visa Application

If you realise an error after submitting, here’s what you can do:

• Contact UKVI: Use their official channels to notify them of the mistake.
• Withdraw and reapply: For major errors, cancelling your application may be the best option.
• Write a cover letter: If the mistake is minor, a letter explaining the error can prevent misunderstandings.
• Seek legal advice: Immigration solicitors can advise whether a correction or withdrawal is better in your case.

How to Cancel a UK Visa Application

Sometimes withdrawing and starting again is the safest choice.

Cancelling Inside the UK

• Fill in the online withdrawal form before a decision is made.
• If you haven’t attended your biometrics appointment, your fee may be refunded.
• If you’ve already provided biometrics, refunds are less likely.

Cancelling Outside the UK

• Sign into your UKVI account and select ‘Withdraw this application’.
• If you applied through the smartphone ID app, you can cancel before uploading your evidence.
• Refunds usually take up to 28 days.

Remember: once you withdraw, you may lose your right to stay in the UK, so always check before cancelling.

Who to Contact for Help with a UK Visa Application Mistake

You have two main options:

• UKVI Contact Centre:
  • From inside the UK: call 0300 790 6268 (option 2)
  • From outside the UK: +44 (0)300 790 6268 (option 1)
  • Lines are open Monday to Friday during working hours.
• Immigration solicitors: A solicitor can help draft correction letters, assess risks, and decide whether to reapply or challenge a decision.

Speak to Deluxe Law Chambers Today

If you’ve made a mistake on your UK visa application, don’t leave things to chance. Acting quickly can make the difference between approval and refusal.

At Deluxe Law Chambers, our friendly team can review your situation, advise on the best approach, and help you take the right steps.

Call us today on 0161 464 4140 Or book an appointment online

FAQs on UK Visa Application Mistakes