From 11 November 2025, the UK Home Office is introducing Part Suitability into the Immigration Rules.
This new section replaces Part 9: Grounds for Refusal and will apply to applications under Appendix FM (Family Members) and Appendix Private Life. If you’re planning to join family in the UK or remain based on your private life, these changes could significantly affect your application.
Rachel Evans, Partner & Head of Private Immigration at Broudie Jackson Canter, breaks down what the introduction of Part Suitability means for applicants.
What Is Part Suitability?
Part Suitability is a unified framework for assessing whether an applicant meets the UK’s character and conduct requirements. It consolidates rules that were previously scattered across Part 9 and individual immigration routes.
The Home Office will check:
- Criminal convictions (UK or overseas)
- False or misleading information in applications
- Previous immigration breaches, such as overstaying or illegal entry
- Risks to public health or safety
While much of Part Suitability mirrors existing rules, there are notable changes that applicants need to understand.
How Will This Affect Family Visa Applications?
If you’re applying as a spouse, partner, parent or child, expect stricter checks:
- Even minor criminal issues or paperwork errors could lead to refusal.
- Re-entry bans now apply to family-based entry clearance. If you overstayed or entered irregularly and then left voluntarily, you could face a 12-month ban before reapplying.
- Previous immigration breaches may weigh heavily against your application.
Decision-making will be less flexible, reducing scope for compassionate exceptions.
What About Private Life Applications?
Applicants relying on private life grounds must meet all suitability requirements alongside existing criteria.
This could make approvals harder for those with complex personal histories or past immigration issues.
Frequently Asked Questions about the New Suitability Rules for UK Immigration Applications
Q: Will these rules apply to applications already submitted?
A: Yes. Any application decided after 11 November 2025 will be assessed under Part Suitability, even if submitted earlier.
Q: Are there any exceptions?
A: Routes like Appendix EU, most asylum claims, and Switzerland Service Provider visas remain outside Part Suitability.
What Can You Do to Protect Your Immigration Application?
Given the stricter checks and reduced flexibility under the new Part Suitability rules, it is more important than ever to take proactive steps to safeguard your immigration application. You need to:
- Be honest and thorough in your paperwork.
- Disclose all criminal and immigration history upfront.
- Provide clear supporting evidence of your circumstances.
- Seek expert legal advice with our team at Broudie Jackson Canter so you’re certain about how the new rules apply.
Need Help Navigating the New Rules?
At Broudie Jackson Canter, our immigration solicitors in Liverpool, Wirral and across the North West are here to help you know where you stand. We’ll guide you through the new suitability requirements and give your application the best chance of success.
Please give us a call, request a callback or make an enquiry to find out how we can help.