R5.45 Approval in principle (29/11/2010)

1. An application for a residence class visa is approved in principle at such time as an immigration officer is satisfied that all evidential and verification requirements necessary to demonstrate eligibility under the relevant instructions have been met with the exception of the payment of any ESOL tuition fee.
2. The date of approval in principle is the date of the letter to the principal applicant or their agent advising that approval in principle has been given.
3. If evidence that requirements have been met has not been submitted, or a fee or charge has not been paid within the period specified in the original letter advising of approval in principle, the application must be declined unless an immigration officer is satisfied that circumstances warrant extending that period.

R5.45.1 Information received after approval in principle has been given

In accordance with the principles of fairness and natural justice provided in the Administration chapter (A1), principal applicants must be given the opportunity to comment on the basis of any potentially prejudicial information that comes to light after approval in principle, before a final decision on their eligibility under residence instructions (including Health and Character requirements) is made.

Effective 29/11/2010