Yes or No?

[SimonH]

Applied for a General visitors visa for Shey's niece to stay with us for the next 6 months and got this response yesterday:-

Dear ...........
The processed visa application for GWF reference number GWF********* was received at the UK Visa Application Centre on 6/6/2014 at 2:50PM. The documents should be collected as soon as possible at the designated passport collection times.




Now normally I could figure these things out for myself, but in this case I'm confused to say the least. OK, it's been processed but all that's telling me is that they've made a decision but not which decision :Erm:

Any thoughts :cwm25:

[mickcant]

Seems like a YES to me :xxgrinning--00xx3:
Fingers crossed all will be ok.
Mick.:smile:

[Terpe]

Applied for a General visitors visa for Shey's niece to stay with us for the next 6 months and got this response yesterday:-

Dear ...........
The processed visa application for GWF reference number GWF********* was received at the UK Visa Application Centre on 6/6/2014 at 2:50PM. The documents should be collected as soon as possible at the designated passport collection times.

Now normally I could figure these things out for myself, but in this case I'm confused to say the least. OK, it's been processed but all that's telling me is that they've made a decision but not which decision :Erm:

Any thoughts :cwm25:

I'd guess that message came from VFS application centre?
If that's correct then VFS have no idea on the decision.....they only know the application has been processed and the 'return package' is/will be available for collection. VFS are not allowed to open those packages.
That's just a standard message.
Manila Hub will never disclose decisions to VFS or anyone else other than the applicant

Unless there's a message directly from Manila Hub the only way to know the outcome is when the package is opened and the passport is in hand.

[SimonH]

I'd guess that message came from VFS application centre?
If that's correct then VFS have no idea on the decision.....they only know the application has been processed and the 'return package' is/will be available for collection. VFS are not allowed to open those packages.
That's just a standard message.
Manila Hub will never disclose decisions to VFS or anyone else other than the applicant

Unless there's a message directly from Manila Hub the only way to know the outcome is when the package is opened and the passport is in hand.

Hi Terpe,


Yes it is from VFS (sorry for omitting that in my original post).

Talk about an ambiguous email though :cwm25:

Could read as the application was received at UK Visa Application Centre yesterday at 2:50PM and it would be collected from there :xxgrinning--00xx3:


Surely a better reply in this case would something like...

Dear whoever

We are now in receipt of your passport and other documents from the UK Visa Application Centre and would appreciate you collecting these as soon as possible.
Please note that we cannot advise you of the visa decision as your documents are private and confidential and as such can only be opened by yourself.
Our address is.......
Our opening hours are......


Or would this be too easy :Erm:

[Terpe]

I'd agree that something along those lines would be much more informative.

I'm sure UKVI have stipulated procedures and automated message wording etc so it may not be how VFS would have wanted it either.

Civil Service 'speak' is always at odds with plain English. IMHO

[Dedworth]

Way too easy

[SimonH]

Update after an email to VFS

Dear Ms............


Thank you for contacting the UK Visas and immigrations international enquiry service. As I checked you application status, we can confirm that they received your application but it is still awaiting the assessment. We hope that this has answered your query. For any further details, or should you need to contact us again please refer to our website at ........

[Jentobeharrison]

Not from VFS

[Terpe]

Update after an email to VFS

Dear Ms............


Thank you for contacting the UK Visas and immigrations international enquiry service. As I checked you application status, we can confirm that they received your application but it is still awaiting the assessment. We hope that this has answered your query. For any further details, or should you need to contact us again please refer to our website at ........

As Jen says, this is not from VFS it's from the UKVI Enquiry Service.

VFS has already informed the applicant that....

The processed visa application for GWF reference number GWF********* was received at the UK Visa Application Centre on 6/6/2014 at 2:50PM. The documents should be collected as soon as possible at the designated passport collection times....

Has the processed application package been collected from VFS as yet?

[SimonH]

Another update.......

Dear Ivy, Thank you for contacting the UK Visa and Immigrations International Enquiry Service. I have made a check on your application status and your application has been proceed. Visa application centre where you applied from will be contacted when ready to collect


"Has been proceed" :cwm23: what the heck is that meant to mean :cwm25:

Anyone got a contact number for VFS, preferably one that isn't 35php a minute :smile:

[Jentobeharrison]

I know that you really wanted to know the status of you application, however starting April 1, 2014 they do not give out information about the status of the application, they will also direct you to contact UKVI on the website

[SimonH]

Hi Jen,

I just want to know if the passport is available for collection, I know we wont know the status until we have the passport in our hands.

The confusion lies in the inability for either VFS or UKVI to be to communicate in English :cwm23:

Mail 1. VFS says it should be collected asap
Mail 2. UKVI says application received but still awaiting process
Mail 3. UKVI say the application has been proceed (what on earth does that mean)

So....... all I want is a phone number so I can ask a simple question preferably in English to the effect of "do you have the :censored:ing passport or not" :Brick:

[Jentobeharrison]

There wouldn't be a phone number of VFS aside from their trunkline tho. I believe once they received the processed application, they will email you.

[SimonH]

:bigcry: OK visa refused due to ............

" lack of supporting documents they need a proof that you can sustain my accomodation they need your salary information, earnings and a proof that you own the house where in I will stay"


so I've emailed Shey's niece a copy of my latest bank statement and highlighted my wages going in and mortgage payment going out.


Where do we appeal the decision?

[Jentobeharrison]

That would just be for tourist visa right? If you lack of supporting documents my advice is to apply again and make sure you add the documents they're needed.

[SimonH]

Thanks Jen,

Yes it was for a tourist visa, $141 application fee though, and I'm a bit reluctant to spend another £82.

Anyone know if you can appeal the decision?

I have emailed asking the question, but didn't know if anyone has had any success with this :Erm:

[raynaputi]

Thanks Jen,

Yes it was for a tourist visa, $141 application fee though, and I'm a bit reluctant to spend another £82.

Anyone know if you can appeal the decision?

I have emailed asking the question, but didn't know if anyone has had any success with this :Erm:

You cannot appeal on decisions for a tourist visa. The only thing you can do is re-apply and make sure what's missing/lacking will be supplied.

[SimonH]

Thanks Rayna, does this mean another application fee?

If the original application was rejected do I get my application fee back?


Many thanks


Simon

[raynaputi]

Thanks Rayna, does this mean another application fee?

If the original application was rejected do I get my application fee back?


Many thanks


Simon

Yes, another application fee. You will not get any refunds for failed applications.

:REGamblMoney01HL1:

[Michael Parnham]

A shame really!:anerikke:

[melovesengland]

Like what other members said, you cant appeal on visit visa, all you can do is re-apply means other set of fees for you to pay. They won't refund any money either.

Make sure on your next application that the "money matter thingy" or the financial part of the requirements for the visa is covered. They are very hot with that. Any document that shows your maintenance, work, accomodation etc should be provided.

[SimonH]

I've told Ivy to re-apply with supporting documentation.


To be honest, I'm not really happy that I've had to send statements showing anyone who looks what my income is, but it has to be done.

How, on earth do you prove that you own the house? There's mortgage payments coming out of my account along with council tax, water etc Is this enough?

[Terpe]

Sorry to learn the visit visa was refused.

Here's my regular advice for standard visit visa:-


Visit visa's are notoriously problematic for many reasons.
Not least because approval or refusal of the General Visitor (tourist) visa applications is principally based on the discretion of the ECO.(Entry Clearance Officer)
Basically there is no appeal process.

The major complication is always going to be the need by the applicant to demonstrate a non-immigrant intent. Always a difficult challenge to overcome the UKVI 'presumption'.
It's not really possible to prove an intention by the applicant does need to clearly present strong social, economic and family ties back home in the Philippines that, on the balance of probabilities, would compel them to leave the UK at the end of the temporary stay.
Or putting it another way, that the documented aspects of the applicants life that bind them to the Philippines do not outweigh those stronger aspects in UK that may cause them to be unwilling to return home.

In terms of 'Financials' then in principle it doesn't matter who is funding.As long as there's sufficient.
Can be either the applicants or friends.

Typical examples of the type of documents that could be supplied can be found in the UKVI document called Guide to Supporting Documents - Visiting the United Kingdom (UK) (https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/294927/Visitor_Documents.pdf)

For the General Visitor the application should be supported with some of the following documents for a sucessful application:-

- if employed, a letter from your employer granting leave of absence from your job for a specified period - the letter should also say how long you have been employed by that employer, in what job(s), and when you are expected back at work
- if self-employed, evidence of your business activities and financial standing
- evidence of any property you owned in home country
- if a student, a letter from the school or college stating the course being studied, its start and finish dates, and the dates of the holiday period for intended visit to the United Kingdom
- evidence of any family or social ties and responsibilities to return home to
- evidence of any firm travel plans made
- bank statements going back over a period of several months
- evidence of savings/funds available during the stay
- evidence that the applicant can financially maintain and accommodate themselves in the UK with or without assistance from family/friends living in the UK but without resource to public funding or employment.

A sponsor can help greatly by providing an invitation/supporting letter to confirm the support they will be providing in terms of financial assistance and/or accommodation etc.

If the sponsor is intending to totally support the visit this is a listing of fairly typical supporting documents that should be provided:-

- 6 months Bank statements
- 6 months pay slips
- Proof of address (eg utility bill, Council Tax etc)
- Accommodation details (including owner's agreement / rental agreement)
- Sponsors passport copy (Photo page, any relevant stamp pages)
- The main reasons for wanting the applicant to travel at the specific time



All applications must be fully compliant with UKVI requirements.

[Arthur Little]

I've told Ivy to re-apply with supporting documentation.

:cwm24: ... sorry too, to read about the refusal of Ivy's visa, Simon and wish her every success on reapplying. :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[melovesengland]

I've told Ivy to re-apply with supporting documentation.


To be honest, I'm not really happy that I've had to send statements showing anyone who looks what my income is, but it has to be done.

How, on earth do you prove that you own the house? There's mortgage payments coming out of my account along with council tax, water etc Is this enough?

You can prove it all by submitting a letter from the solicitor that is holding the deeds of your house, land lord letter to say that your niece is allowed to stay whilst in the uk or tenancy agreement.

I'm so sorry to say but they can't just let anyone in not knowing the capability of the sponsor to support the applicant that is why they ask for proof on how you can support the applicant whilst he or she is in the UK.

[SimonH]

:cwm24: ... sorry too, to read about the refusal of Ivy's visa, Simon and wish her every success on reapplying. :xxgrinning--00xx3:

Thanks Arthur :smile:

[SimonH]

You can prove it all by submitting a letter from the solicitor that is holding the deeds of your house, land lord letter to say that your niece is allowed to stay whilst in the uk or tenancy agreement.

I'm so sorry to say but they can't just let anyone in not knowing the capability of the sponsor to support the applicant that is why they ask for proof on how you can support the applicant whilst he or she is in the UK.


Thanks :smile:


So far scanned copies of:-


Current bank statement (personal)
Available balance (company account)
last 2 pay slips including my latest P60


Will have a look for a mortgage agreement when I get home

[melovesengland]

Thanks :smile:


So far scanned copies of:-


Current bank statement (personal)
Available balance (company account)
last 2 pay slips including my latest P60


Will have a look for a mortgage agreement when I get home

No worries. Just give us a shout if you have more querries. We will try to sort it out. :)

[tone]

Yes, another application fee. You will not get any refunds for failed applications.

:REGamblMoney01HL1:

And I know all about that!

[SimonH]

Thanks :smile:


So far scanned copies of:-


Current bank statement (personal)
Available balance (company account)
last 2 pay slips including my latest P60


Will have a look for a mortgage agreement when I get home

Other paperwork sent now includes


Letter from mortgage company
Letter from council
Photocopy of passport
Renewed invitation letter


Anything missing :Erm:

[sars_notd_virus]

Other paperwork sent now includes


Letter from mortgage company
Letter from council
Photocopy of passport
Renewed invitation letter


Anything missing :Erm:

Itinerary??...what she plans to do on her holiday in the UK.

[Arthur Little]

Itinerary??...what she plans to do on her holiday in the UK.

:wink: ... how about ... :anerikke: ... robbing a few banks in order to meet the extortionate cost of living in :Britain:?

[Arthur Little]

:wink: ... how about ... :anerikke: ... robbing a few banks in order to meet the extortionate cost of living in :Britain:?

:icon_sorry: for being flippant, Simon ... but it's just about the "size of things" here nowadays.

[SimonH]

Itinerary??...what she plans to do on her holiday in the UK.

:xxgrinning--00xx3: She's already had the interview and explained she's staying with family.

Is that enough?

[SimonH]

:wink: ... how about ... :anerikke: ... robbing a few banks in order to meet the extortionate cost of living in :Britain:?


With Shey about to give birth any day now :76: money really is the least of my worries :cwm25:

[Mrmlea]

Sorry to hear about your rejection Simon, and good luck with the re-application. The same thing happened to me last year when my then girlfriend (now wife) was refused a visitors visa. In her case the main reason given was lack of evidence of our relationship. So we re-applied including plenty of photos, emails, chat logs etc, and the second application was granted. So as long as you address the specific reasons for the refusal you should have a good chance of success.

One thing I notice - you said you have sent scanned copied of bank statements, pay slips, P60 etc. I think you need to include the *originals* and also copies in the application. You will get the originals back eventually. Other people on here may be able to advise better, but that is my understanding and is what we did.

Good luck,

Martin & Aileen.

[SimonH]

:cwm23::cwm23::cwm23::cwm23::cwm23: I'm :censored:ing fuming

Visa for Shey's niece refused again, the reason being this time that they didn't seem to think that she would return after her 6 month visit, even with a letter from her employer saying her new contract starts in December :mad:

Funny, this wasn't mentioned in the first application rejection, so failing jumping on a :censored:ing plane and banging some heads together there, what do I do now :Erm:

[Michael Parnham]

Shocking news Simon, I don't know what to suggest, hopefully someone will have a answer soon, good luck! :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[sars_notd_virus]

Itinerary??...what she plans to do on her holiday in the UK.


:xxgrinning--00xx3: She's already had the interview and explained she's staying with family.

Is that enough?


With Shey about to give birth any day now




Visa for Shey's niece refused again, the reason being this time that they didn't seem to think that she would return after her 6 month visit, even with a letter from her employer saying her new contract starts in December :mad:



Sorry just re-read this thread again just now and sorry to read about the refusal again for the 2nd time.

I think something is wrong somewhere, I asked about the Itinerary? What she plans to do on her holiday and visit to UK and you replied shes been interviewed and she's staying with her family? For six months? And your wife has given birth? Surely she will NOT be just staying home looking after your wife and baby for six months? She needs to go out and See All around UK and you need to provide documents for it ie visit to London and all nice cities in UK.

Does it needs to be six months? Why not cut it a bit shorter - a month or two - just to see the new baby and visit family in UK.

[SimonH]

Shocking news Simon, I don't know what to suggest, hopefully someone will have a answer soon, good luck! :xxgrinning--00xx3:

Thanks Michael, I've just fired off an email to Theresa May as she's my local MP, let's see what she has to say about it :Erm:

[raynaputi]

I'm sorry for the refusal. Getting a visit visa really is a lottery. If ECO isn't really convinced of her ties in the Philippines, it would be a refusal. :NoNo: How old is your wife's niece? Does she have any other assets and reasons to go back to the Philippines other than her work in December? Sometimes, it's the duration of stay here in the UK (i.e. 2 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, etc.) can be the key too. Did you state she'll stay for 6 months? Also, what reason did you mention for her reasons to come here to the UK?

[SimonH]

Sorry just re-read this thread again just now and sorry to read about the refusal again for the 2nd time.

I think something is wrong somewhere, I asked about the Itinerary? What she plans to do on her holiday and visit to UK and you replied shes been interviewed and she's staying with her family? For six months ? And your wife has given birth? Surely she will NOT be just staying home looking after your wife and baby for six months? She needs to go out and See All around UK and you need to provide documents for it ie visit to London and all nice cities in UK.

Does it needs to be six months? Why not cut it a bit shorter - a month or two just to see the new baby and visit family in UK.

Hi Sars, she did mention places that we'd be visiting. The initial application was for 6 months,the second was for 5 as she was always going back at the end of November with Shey and our daughter, Charleigh.

[SimonH]

I'm sorry for the refusal. Getting a visit visa is really a lottery. If ECO isn't really convinced of her ties in the Philippines, it would be a refusal. :NoNo: How old is your wife's niece? Does she have any other assets and reasons to go back to the Philippines other than her work on December? Sometimes, it's the duration of stay here in the UK (i.e. 2 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, etc.) can be the key too. Did you state she'll stay for 6 months? Also, what reason did you mention for her reasons to come here to the UK?




Hi Rayna,

The really frustrating thing is that there was no mention in the initial rejection of her not having enough reasons to return, so why did this crop up in the second application :Erm:

[raynaputi]

Hi Rayna,

The really frustrating thing is that there was no mention in the initial rejection of her not having enough reasons to return, so why did this crop up in the second application :Erm:

That's probably because it was looked and processed by two different ECOs and they probably have different standards to look at. :cwm25:

[Dedworth]

That's probably because it was looked and processed by two different ECOs and they probably have different standards to look at. :cwm25:

I blame Blair and Indian sub continent abuse of the system. Bad news, I hope it gets sorted

[grahamw48]

I agree. Caused by overstayers. It's a question of trust.

I would also wager that 99.9 % of overstayers were NOT Filipinos coming to visit native British residents.

It would be interesting to see the figures...unless they were thrown out along with the Parliamentary Pedo files. :NoNo:

[SimonH]

This mornings fiasco.............


Phoned UK Visas and Immigration centre, a very sympathetic lady directed me to ukvi-international.faq-help.com which will kindly charge me £1.37 a minute to answer my queries.
Phoned them, but get an answer phone saying that their offices are closed at 9.30am even though their website says open from 9 till 5 :Erm:
Next phoned Theresa May to get an appointment with her.... got a very helpful answer phone message saying for immigration queries call 0870 606 7766, great now we're getting somewhere............ nope, automated message on that number saying the number is no longer in use :icon_lol:

Oh well, onwards and upwards :doh

[SimonH]

Emailed ECM Manila with this, not sure where it will get me but worth a small rant :Erm:

To whom it may concern,


With reference to applications GWF031182877 and GWF032384772 both of which have been refused.

As per your email regarding the first refusal, we have addressed the points and re-applied only to have this application refused. I am awaiting an appointment with my local member of parliament, Theresa May, to discuss this further but in the mean time I would appreciate some sort of explanation from yourselves.
Your reason for refusal is unacceptable in that you quote paragraph 41 (i), (ii), (vi) and (vii)

(i) I have send a letter of invitation stating I will fully support Ivy financially, with supporting documentation showing my income and available funds
(ii) Ivy's employer has given you a letter of employment from her HR department stating her new contract starts on 20th December. Together with this I have stated in my letter of invitation that we will all be flying back to the Philippines at the end of November, I even went as far as to sent your a scanned copy of my passport.
(vi) My bank statements, both personal and company should have given you no reason to doubt my ability to support Ivy in her stay, together with proof that I own my own house and she would be staying with ourselves.
(vii) Again see point (vi) regarding my available funds, together with the fact that I would be paying for a RETURN ticket for her.


I have no intention of applying a 3rd time, as all queries have been addressed fully and I can only assume that there has been some sort of clerical mistake which will be rectified promptly.


Regards






Let's see if I get any sort of explanation :cwm25:

[Dedworth]

This mornings fiasco.............


Phoned UK Visas and Immigration centre, a very sympathetic lady directed me to ukvi-international.faq-help.com which will kindly charge me £1.37 a minute to answer my queries.
Phoned them, but get an answer phone saying that their offices are closed at 9.30am even though their website says open from 9 till 5 :Erm:
Next phoned Theresa May to get an appointment with her.... got a very helpful answer phone message saying for immigration queries call 0870 606 7766, great now we're getting somewhere............ nope, automated message on that number saying the number is no longer in use :icon_lol:

Oh well, onwards and upwards :doh

Her Westminster office number is 020 7219 5206

Good email you've sent #48

[SimonH]

Her Westminster office number is 020 7219 5206

Good email you've sent #48


Cheers, I've already sent her an email and left a message on that number :xxgrinning--00xx3:

That's where I get the 0870 number from, also here :-

http://www.tmay.co.uk/contact#home-office-enquiries


Should be an interesting meeting :cwm25:

[mickcant]

Cheers, I've already sent her an email and left a message on that number :xxgrinning--00xx3:

That's where I get the 0870 number from, also here :-

http://www.tmay.co.uk/contact#home-office-enquiries


Should be an interesting meeting :cwm25:

Let's hope you do get to see her and she has the sense to finally sort this out.

A point that bugs me is they are so over strict on allowing visitors, yet when my ex wife overstayed they did nothing about her despite me giving them the information very clearly with copies of her expired visa and where she was living!

Mick. :NoNo:

[Michael Parnham]

Emailed ECM Manila with this, not sure where it will get me but worth a small rant :Erm:

To whom it may concern,


With reference to applications GWF031182877 and GWF032384772 both of which have been refused.

As per your email regarding the first refusal, we have addressed the points and re-applied only to have this application refused. I am awaiting an appointment with my local member of parliament, Theresa May, to discuss this further but in the mean time I would appreciate some sort of explanation from yourselves.
Your reason for refusal is unacceptable in that you quote paragraph 41 (i), (ii), (vi) and (vii)

(i) I have send a letter of invitation stating I will fully support Ivy financially, with supporting documentation showing my income and available funds
(ii) Ivy's employer has given you a letter of employment from her HR department stating her new contract starts on 20th December. Together with this I have stated in my letter of invitation that we will all be flying back to the Philippines at the end of November, I even went as far as to sent your a scanned copy of my passport.
(vi) My bank statements, both personal and company should have given you no reason to doubt my ability to support Ivy in her stay, together with proof that I own my own house and she would be staying with ourselves.
(vii) Again see point (vi) regarding my available funds, together with the fact that I would be paying for a RETURN ticket for her.

I have no intention of applying a 3rd time, as all queries have been addressed fully and I can only assume that there has been some sort of clerical mistake which will be rectified promptly.

Regards


Let's see if I get any sort of explanation :cwm25:

Nice letter Simon, let's hope it does the trick! :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[SimonH]

Another update :smile:

I just had a very pleasant phone call from Theresa May's assistant Jenny. She has asked me to send a copy of all correspondence to her and she will look into it.


Waiting for the next instalment................. :cwm25:

[Michael Parnham]

At last, some movement in the right direction! :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[SimonH]

Thought I'd give this an update.
After investigating the application and refusals they stood by their decision and said we could apply for a 3rd time if that's what we wanted. So, we did.............. result, a third refusal :mad: reason, not enough ties to the Philippines and they didn't believe she would return.

Time to ruffle some feathers before I start really laying into them, so I've sent them this:


We have applied a third time MANILA\******* only to have the application refused again.

The reason quoted is paragraph 41 (i) and (ii)


These points have already been addressed in this and previous applications, even to the point of me offering to lodge a substantial bond with yourselves. I appreciate now that you do not accept bonds, but I would have thought that this gesture would have some bearing on the decision.

I cannot find any reference to personal and financial circumstances with regard to the applicant in any links or guidelines and therefore am of the opinion that this is an unlawful reason for refusal. I have stated in this and previous applications that I will be fully supporting Ms Soliman including paying for a return ticket.

Ms Solimans employers' knowledge of her length of vacation is totally irrelevant as her new contract doesn't start until after we return to the Philippines.

Your final point is that Ms Soliman is single with limited evidence of saving. Again, I believe this to be an unlawful reason for refusal. Her marital status is irrelevant and the finances of a 19 year old should have no bearing on the decision - especially as I have proven beyond doubt my financial ability to support her.

Once again I will be contacting my local Member of Parliament, Theresa May, to look into this.

Under the Freedom of Information Act' I request that you provide me with the following information.

1. How many general visitor visas have been applied for from the Philippines?

2. Of these how many were refused and accepted?

3. Of those refused, how many applied a second time?

4. What is the average amount of applications that a person has to lodge before being granted a visa?


Regards



I was told by a chap in Manila yesterday that the refusal rate was 93%, he specialises in visa applications and will get applicants to sign an affidavit stating they will return to the Philippines to be lodged with the application. The cost for this service......... 80,000 Php :yikes:

Anyway, let's see what the response is with regard the Freedom of Information Act questions :Erm:

[SimonH]

I've also sent a Freedom of Information request to the Home Office via these people -

https://www.whatdotheyknow.com/request/visa_applications/new

I'll keep you updated :smile:

[SimonH]

Have an automated response :smile:

From: FOI Requests
Home Office

3 September 2014

Thank you for contacting the Home Office FOI Requests mailbox.

The Freedom of Information (FoI) Act 2000 provides public access to
recorded information held by the Department.

If you have submitted a valid FoI request, we will acknowledge your
request within 24 hours, and aim to provide the information requested
within 20 working days as specified under the FoI Act.

[grahamw48]

Good man Simon.

Keep turning the screw. :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[Michael Parnham]

Hope this brings success Simon, good luck! :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[SimonH]

Thanks Graham and Michael :xxgrinning--00xx3:

I've fired off another email to Theresa May's secretary copying her in on the correspondence and requesting a meeting with her.

To be totally honest, this is :censored:ing frustrating, I've got much better things to do with my time, like keeping people employed and paying tax. Maybe if I knew how to play the system I could be sat at home in front of my 50" surround sound home cinema drinking a can of lager :Erm:

[Dedworth]

I think that's the right approach - hit them from all angles

[SimonH]

Today's update:-


Dear Mr Harrison,

Thank you for your email in regard to the refusal notice for entry clearance for Ms Soliman. I am sure Theresa would appreciate your concerns about this.

We would be happy to arrange an advice surgery appointment however, I should mention that we do currently have a waiting list. If you would like to be placed on the list, please do let me know and I will ask my colleague Jenny, who arranges Theresa’s surgeries, to do this. Alternatively, we could look into this matter almost immediately if we are to raise it in writing.

I hope this is helpful and I look forward to hearing from you.

Best wishes,

Charlotte Adams

Office of The Rt Hon Theresa May MP

[andy222]

I blame Blair and Indian sub continent abuse of the system. Bad news, I hope it gets sorted
Unfortunately it is this government that made the rules. We all have to abide by them whether you're a Tory voter or not. Just supply them with the information they need and you will get the visa. :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[andy222]

Today's update:-


Dear Mr Harrison,

Thank you for your email in regard to the refusal notice for entry clearance for Ms Soliman. I am sure Theresa would appreciate your concerns about this.

We would be happy to arrange an advice surgery appointment however, I should mention that we do currently have a waiting list. If you would like to be placed on the list, please do let me know and I will ask my colleague Jenny, who arranges Theresa’s surgeries, to do this. Alternatively, we could look into this matter almost immediately if we are to raise it in writing.

I hope this is helpful and I look forward to hearing from you.

Best wishes,

Charlotte Adams

Office of The Rt Hon Theresa May MP

You will get the same answer as I got Simon when I contacted my MP.

Rules are rules.

[SimonH]

You will get the same answer as I got Simon when I contacted my MP.

Rules are rules.

What reply did you get Andy?

[andy222]

Oh I had a nice letter from my MP from the House of Commons on headed paper. He just said the rules are rules. They wont help you.

[Dedworth]

Just supply them with the information they need and you will get the visa. :xxgrinning--00xx3:

Well in this case more than enough information would seem to have been supplied. Read posts 48 & 55

[SimonH]

Oh I had a nice letter from my MP from the house of commons on headed paper. He just said the rules are rules. They wont help you.

Strange, last time I asked I had a full explanation both from the Home Office and the Clearance Officer in Manila, a Ms Lee and after examining the application I could see that mistakes had been made. This time I went through everything with Ivy with a fine tooth comb so I would have thought that that they will keep to their word and re-examine the application.

I'll keep you updated as to whether my MP does what she can :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[andy222]

All the best Simon and I mean that. If it wasn't for Terpe, I don't think my wife would be here now. It's stressful but you will get through it. I think you will agree its just a money making scheme. :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[andy222]

Strange, last time I asked I had a full explanation both from the Home Office and the Clearance Officer in Manila, a Ms Lee and after examining the application I could see that mistakes had been made. This time I went through everything with Ivy with a fine tooth comb so I would have thought that that they will keep to their word and re-examine the application.
I'll keep you updated as to whether my MP does what she can :xxgrinning--00xx3:
I had a full explanation. Telling me what I already knew. I just answered you what the letter amounted to. Rules are rules and everybody has to obey them.

[SimonH]

All the best Simon and I mean that. If it wasn't for Terpe, I don't think my wife would be here now. It's stressful but you will get through it. I think you will agree its just a money making scheme. :xxgrinning--00xx3:


Appreciate the sincerity, and for once we are in total agreement :xxgrinning--00xx3:

I've heard but not verified yet that the budget for processing visa applications used to be £2.4 Billion but this has been cut to £1.6 Billion, yes that's not a typing error I did say Billion.

Now, I wonder how they try and make up the shortfall of £800 Million :Erm: Hence my request for the statistics I asked for under the Freedom of Information Act :wink:

[SimonH]

Okay, things are progressing :xxgrinning--00xx3:

Just had this back:-


Dear Mr Harrison,

Thank you for your email confirming your preferred action.

I confirm we have raised this matter with Sarah Rapson, Director General, UK Visas and Immigration. We stressed the circumstances of this case and that Ms Soliman’s third application has been refused. We stressed you would fully support her during her stay and pay for her return travel.

We included a copy of your correspondence asking the Entry Clearance Officer could look again at the decision in light of the concerns raised.

I hope this is helpful and we will, of course, keep you informed of the response we receive.

Best wishes,

Charlotte Adams

Office of The Rt Hon Theresa May MP

[andy222]

What a palaver. But at least you're getting somewhere. :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[Dedworth]

What a palaver. But at least you're getting somewhere. :xxgrinning--00xx3:

The difference between having an MP who serves the constituents rather than an apparatchik such as Bungling Bob Ainsworth, Shabana Mahmood etc voted in by lemmings who toes the party line :biggrin:

[andy222]

Obviously the MPs are going to pull out all the stops with a year to go to the next elections. But it won't get them anywhere. :biggrin:

[Michael Parnham]

It's a step forward! :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[joebloggs]

I've heard but not verified yet that the budget for processing visa applications used to be £2.4 Billion but this has been cut to £1.6 Billion, yes that's not a typing error I did say Billion.
Now, I wonder how they try and make up the shortfall of £800 Million :Erm: Hence my request for the statistics I asked for under the Freedom of Information Act :wink:


By cutting 1000's of staff and


In 2012-13, the UK Border
Agency‟s total spend was £1,576
million resource and £141 million capital. The total resource spend was funded
by £614 million of taxpayer funding and £962
million from income,including £927 million from fees from migrant applications

If you think they are making money from refusing visit visas you're wrong. The fact is, it costs over £140 to process an application and only costs you around £80, so the gov has lost £60 on each application. :NoNo:, they make their money on Settlement Visas, and yes - make money out of refusing them :NoNo:

https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/230717/HO_-_Immigration_Fees_Regs_Commons_-_2013.2.25.pdf

You've kicked up a fuss, so its possible she will get her visa :wink:, I've had to do it and others on here - who were refused but complained - got their visa in the end

It's sad it has to be like this for genuine cases but you have to partly blame the :censored: who abused the visit visa making it more difficult for genuine cases.

[SimonH]

It's a good job it's being looked at from this end because I just had an email in response to my original request from UK Visa and Immigration at the British embassy in Manila stating that they couldn't answer my questions because of the data protection act, and Ivy hadn't signed anything to say I was authorised to act on her behalf :cwm25:

In my haste I may have over reacted a little and replied thus:-


To whom it may concern,


I’m glad to see you’re being as efficient in dealing with this request as you are in dealing with the visa application! If you would care to scroll down and read the complete email I'm sure that even you can see that I have dealt with a Ms Lee and a Ms Po already in this matter and am therefore an authorised representative.
I would appreciate it if you could pass this matter onto someone with at least some modicum of common sense, rather than just sending pre formatted reply.
Many thanks for your proof of your usual ineptness, I’ll have great pleasure in printing it out to show my MP.

Sincerely







I'll await their response :cwm25:

[Dedworth]

You couldn't make it up :mad: - further proof of the faceless inept bureaucrats who infest the public sector

[andy222]

Its your government in the Home Office, Ded. :wink: Never forget you're just a number like the rest of us. :xxgrinning--00xx3: Goes to prove just because you vote Tory, you don't get any special favours. Like Joe says, they have cut back too much and if you pay peanuts you get monkeys.

[Dedworth]

It's your government in the Home Office, Ded. :wink: Never forget you're just a number like the rest of us. :xxgrinning--00xx3: Goes to prove just because you vote Tory, you don't get any special favours. Like Joe says, they have cut back too much and if you pay peanuts you get monkeys.

:Erm: Why should anyone get any special favours the public sector is there to serve all of us equally - are you sure you're not getting confused with self serving leftists falling into trough feeding non jobs in the public and charity sector ?

[andy222]

I thought you were well in with Mrs May, Ded. I thought you would have sent an email on Simon's behalf. :biggrin: