UK Sets 24-Week Target for Asylum and Immigration Appeals
The government has introduced a new 24-week target for certain asylum and immigration appeals in the First-tier Tribunal starting August 2026. This aims to reduce average wait times from 67 weeks and support faster removals of unsuccessful claimants. The changes also involve plans for a new Independent Immigration Appeals Authority.
Overview of the New Appeals Target
According to gov.uk guidance, individuals with no right to remain in the UK may face faster deportation processes under updated timelines for asylum and immigration appeals. The policy focuses on reducing delays in the First-tier Tribunal for specific categories of cases.
General Information Only
This article summarises publicly available gov.uk content and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Requirements can change and individual circumstances vary.
Key Dates and Figures
Cases Covered by the 24-Week Target
The new timeframe generally applies to new asylum and immigration appeals from non-detained foreign national offenders (FNOs) and individuals receiving asylum support and accommodation. These cases are expected to be heard by the First-tier Tribunal within 24 weeks of being received.
- Non-detained foreign national offenders
- Individuals in receipt of asylum support and accommodation
- Appeals submitted on or after 12 August 2026
| Category | Current Average | New Target |
|---|---|---|
| Non-detained FNO appeals | 67 weeks | 24 weeks |
| Asylum support cases | 67 weeks | 24 weeks |
Minister's Statement
Minister for Border Security and Asylum Anna Turley noted that delays have led to ongoing costs for taxpayers and that the 24-week target will help resolve cases faster while reducing reliance on taxpayer-funded accommodation.
Wider Reforms and the Independent Immigration Appeals Authority
The Immigration and Asylum Bill, which has passed its second reading, proposes creating a new Independent Immigration Appeals Authority (IIAA). This body would operate alongside the First-tier Tribunal for several years to help clear backlogs while handling new cases, with priority given to urgent matters such as high-harm FNOs.
Tribunal Capacity Increase
Sitting days in the First-tier Tribunal Immigration and Asylum Chamber are planned to rise by 19% compared to 2024-2025 levels.
IIAA Rollout
The IIAA will gradually assume new cases to allow the existing tribunal to address the backlog of over 150,000 appeals.
Additional Context on Asylum Costs and Removals
Asylum costs have reportedly fallen by £1 billion since the 2024 general election. The government also aims to close all remaining asylum hotels by the end of the current parliament, with the number in use reduced from a peak of 400 in 2023 to under 170. Nearly 10,000 FNOs have been removed, representing a 36% increase over the previous period.
When does the 24-week target begin?
The target applies to in-scope cases submitted to the First-tier Tribunal from 12 August 2026.
Which appeals are prioritised under the new rules?
Non-detained FNO appeals and those involving asylum support and accommodation are included, building on existing prioritisation for detained FNO cases.
What is the role of the proposed IIAA?
The Independent Immigration Appeals Authority would provide an additional route for appeals, focusing on urgent and public interest cases while the tribunal clears its backlog.
Explore More on Gov.uk Guidance
Have questions about these rules? Chat with our AI assistant to explore gov.uk guidance
Chat with AI