Should I bring a witness to my Tribunal hearing?
Witnesses can be especially useful when appealing a partner visa refusal. The Tribunal likes to receive information from other people who can verify the relationship. When you receive your Hearing Invitation from the Tribunal, there will be a section for you to add the details of any witnesses that you would like to appear before the Tribunal to give evidence and information about your relationship. Careful selection of witness is really important and it may not be the most obvious person or those closest to you who can provide the best evidence.
Normally (and we would certainly recommend), the Tribunal would expect to receive a written statement setting out what type of information and evidence your witness will provide. Preparing a statement is good preparation for your witnesses. This will ensure that your witness can confirm they know basic aspects about your relationship such as;
Any full names or alias’
How long they have known about your relationship
What direct experience they have of both of you representing yourselves as a couple
Knowledge or involvement in any significant aspects of your relationship
You may also choose a person who is prominent in your life or who has a degree of impartiality from you. Individuals such as bosses, colleagues, religious leaders or acquaintances from social or sporting groups, can often all be great at giving objective evidence to the Tribunal.
Choosing the correct witness might also depend on what type of evidence or information you are trying to present to the Tribunal. Is there a lack of financial evidence in your application? Do you have family or friends who have loaned you money or supported you financially throughout the partner visa process? Do you have a boss or supervisor, who can provide a letter to demonstrate that you have sought leave to look after, visit or go on holidays with your partner?
How you present your relationship to the Tribunal, and the witnesses you call, can be one of the most effective ways of improving your chances of success. Feel free to contact us for a confidential discussion about your partner visa refusal.
