The Home Office has launched a call for evidence on plans to create a new independent asylum appeals body, as part of wider reforms to the UK asylum system. Submissions are open until 11:59pm on 22 April 2026.
You can access theΒ call for evidence here on GOV.UK.
The proposal to replace the First-tier Tribunal (Immigration and Asylum Chamber) was first announced last year. However, there is still limited clarity on how the new system will operate. Recently, the Lady Chief Justice noted that the judiciary is still waiting for details on the overall plan, timeline, and specific proposals.
The call for evidence invites input from individuals and organisations with experience in the immigration and asylum appeals system. This includes legal professionals, regulators, charities, public sector bodies, and researchers. The government has stated that responses will help shape the structure and role of the new appeals body.
The consultation focuses on seven key areas, including access to justice, procedural safeguards, the use of expert evidence, adjudicator recruitment and training, case management, hearing formats and digital processes, compliance with timeframes, and accountability.
In particular, the government is seeking views on how to ensure fair access to legal advice, representation, and support services such as interpreters. It is also exploring how to better support vulnerable individuals through procedural adjustments.
There are also questions around how expert evidence, such as medical reports and country information, should be used and whether a shared pool of expert materials could improve consistency in decisions. On recruitment, the government is considering bringing in adjudicators from a wider range of professional backgrounds, with appropriate training and safeguards in place.
The consultation further looks at whether different types of cases should follow specialised procedures, and how to balance paper-based, remote, and in-person hearings, including the technology needed to support these systems.
In addition, views are being sought on how to reduce delays, improve compliance with timeframes, and prioritise urgent cases, including the possibility of faster-track appeals in certain situations.
Finally, the government is asking for input on how to ensure accountability and transparency within the new system, including whether external regulation or an ombudsman-style model should be introduced.
LawSentis point of view
From a LawSentis perspective, this reform is significant but raises concerns due to the current lack of clarity. Replacing the tribunal system is a major change, and its success will depend on protecting fairness, independence, and access to justiceβespecially for vulnerable applicants. Any improvements in efficiency must not come at the expense of fair and well-reasoned decisions.
If you are affected by changes to the UK asylum system or need advice on an appeal, contact LawSentis for expert guidance and professional support.