RFL08 - Secretary of State directed refusal on grounds exclusion conducive to the public good – paragraph 320(6)

This is internal guidance for use by entry clearance staff on the handling of refusals for visa applications made outside the United Kingdom (UK). It is a live document under constant review and is for information only.

RFL8.1 When must I refuse under paragraph 320(6)?

This is a mandatory refusal. Where a non-conducive refusal is appropriate, applications which are high profile, involve national security or are based on sensitive information must be referred to the Home Secretary to consider exclusion rather than being refused under 320(19). Applications must be referred using the HO Referrals process if necessary. Full details available in Referrals / Deferrals (RDF) section in the ECG Toolkit.

In cases where the application has been referred to UKBA headquarters for a decision, they will provide the wording to be used on the notice of decision. Refusal notices will always be from the Secretary of State, for example '... the Secretary of State is not satisfied that you...'