Immigration Appeal Journey (First-tier Tribunal)
Appealing a Home Office immigration or asylum refusal to the First-tier Tribunal (IAC) and onward to the Upper Tribunal.
Who Uses This Journey
Individuals refused asylum, a human rights claim, an EUSS application, or a visit visa under specific provisions. There is no general right of appeal — check the refusal letter for whether one exists.
Stage-by-Stage Timeline
Check appeal rights
Read the Home Office refusal letter carefully. It states whether you have a right of appeal, the relevant tribunal address, and the deadline.
Case Management Review
Tribunal sets directions on bundles, expert evidence, and listing. Detained appellants get an expedited timetable.
Substantive hearing
Before a tribunal judge (sometimes with a non-legal member). Appellant gives evidence and is cross-examined. Country expert and other expert evidence may be relied on for protection claims. Interpreter provided where needed.
- Statement
- Supporting documents
- Country expert report (for asylum claims)
- Family/relationship evidence (for Article 8 claims)
Determination
Decision in writing within weeks of the hearing. Either allows the appeal (Home Office must reconsider) or dismisses it.
Onward appeal
Either party can apply for permission to appeal to the Upper Tribunal (IAC). Must be on a point of law only. Must be sought from the First-tier Tribunal first, then from the Upper Tribunal if refused.