Visa applications can be stressful. Even the most careful applicants make mistakes—misspelled names, outdated addresses, or mismatched dates. But what happens if you realise your mistake after submitting?
In this guide, we explain how to fix common UK visa application errors, what UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) allows you to correct, and when it’s safer to withdraw and reapply.
Can You Edit a UK Visa Application After Submission?
It depends on where you are in the process:
- Before submission: You can still log into your UKVI account and make changes.
- After submission, before biometrics: Minor errors may be correctable by contacting UKVI. For major errors (e.g. wrong nationality), withdrawal and resubmission may be necessary.
- After biometrics: You should still notify UKVI. They may request clarification or additional documents.
- After approval: If your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) or eVisa contains incorrect information, report it immediately.
Mistakes on immigration records can impact future applications—so it’s crucial to act fast.
Common Mistakes on UK Visa Applications
Here are some of the most frequent errors we see:
- Misspelled names or incorrect passport numbers
- Wrong immigration history (e.g. missed prior refusals)
- Incorrect income or job title listed for a certificate of sponsorship (CoS)
- Uploading the wrong supporting documents
- Errors in dependants’ details
- Mistakes in dates (e.g. previous travel history)
Even small errors can lead to a refusal if they contradict supporting evidence or raise doubts about your credibility.
What Are the Implications?
1. Visa Refusal Due to Error
If your mistake leads UKVI to believe you don’t meet the requirements, your visa may be refused—even if the error was innocent.
2. Visa Issued on False Information
If you’re granted a visa based on a mistake and UKVI later discovers it, your visa could be cancelled. If you fail to report the error yourself, this could be treated as deception.
3. Long-Term Impact
Refusals based on false or misleading information may trigger a 10-year re-entry ban, even if the mistake was made by a third party on your behalf.
How to Fix a Mistake After Submitting
Option 1: Contact UKVI Immediately
Visit gov.uk/contact-ukvi and:
- Select your location (inside or outside the UK)
- Submit a request using the “something else” option
- Explain the error clearly, including your application reference number
UKVI may ask for clarification, supporting documents, or may instruct you to withdraw and reapply.
Option 2: Withdraw and Reapply
If your error affects core eligibility—such as your job, salary, or immigration history—it may be safer to withdraw and resubmit.
- Before biometrics: You’ll usually get a refund
- After biometrics: You can still withdraw, but fees are generally non-refundable
How to withdraw:
- Inside the UK: Use the online withdrawal form
- Outside the UK: Sign into your UKVI account and select “Withdraw this application”
Note: Cancelling your application could impact your right to remain in the UK, especially if your current leave has expired.
What If Your BRP Has a Mistake?
If your visa was approved but your BRP or eVisa contains incorrect details, report the issue within 10 working days using the BRP correction service on gov.uk.
Common BRP errors include:
- Name or birthdate mistakes
- Wrong visa type or expiry date
- Incorrect work permissions
Lying vs. Honest Mistakes: Why It Matters
Not all mistakes are treated equally.
- An honest mistake (e.g. typo or minor omission) can often be fixed
- A deliberate omission (e.g. failing to declare past refusals or convictions) can lead to:
- Visa refusal
- Visa cancellation
- Re-entry bans
- Immigration record flagged for future applications
Always disclose past refusals, visa overstays, or legal issues. If you’re unsure, disclose and explain it upfront—UKVI will likely find out anyway.
What to Include in a Correction Request or Cover Letter
If you’re contacting UKVI or including a correction letter, it should:
- Reference your application number
- Clearly state what the error is
- Explain why the mistake occurred
- Confirm the correct information
- Include any supporting evidence
A well-drafted correction note can pre-empt refusal and establish good faith.
Still Unsure What to Do?
At Borderless, we support individuals and employers with:
- Reviewing submitted visa applications for errors
- Drafting correction cover letters for UKVI
- Advising whether to withdraw or reapply
- Helping sponsors manage their SMS accounts and CoS requests accurately
Don’t wait until a mistake becomes a refusal.
👉 Get in touch with our team for expert support.
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