UK Immigration Rights | Home Office & Raids

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Home "Dawn" Raids

Immigration Enforcement often arrives early (6am) to arrest people for deportation. Do not panic.

Do not open the door

You are NOT legally required to open the door unless they have a warrant.

Check the Warrant

1. Ask them to slide the warrant under the door or hold it to a window.
2. Check that the address is EXACTLY yours. If it is wrong, do not open.
3. Check the date. Is it valid?
4. Check who it names.

If they force entry

"I do not consent to this search."

Still do not physically resist. It can be a criminal offence (Obstruction).

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Street Spot Checks

Immigration officers sometimes stand at stations (Tube/Bus) targeting people. This is racial profiling, but it happens.

You can walk away

Unless you are under arrest, you are free to leave. You do NOT have to answer their questions.

What to say

"Am I under arrest?"

If they say NO, walk away.

If they say YES, ask "For what offence?" and then remain silent.

Warning: Fingerprints

They utilize mobile fingerprint scanners. They cannot force you to use this unless you are under arrest or they have reasonable suspicion you are an offender. Refuse consent.

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Workplace Raids

Raids on businesses to find "illegal workers" are common in the hospitality and gig economy sectors.

Do not try to run

Running gives them "reasonable suspicion" to chase and arrest you. Stay calm.

"Am I free to go?"

If they have blocked the exits (a common tactic), ask this loudly. If they presume to detain everyone in a building without suspicion, it may be unlawful imprisonment.

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Reporting Centre Visits

If you have to "sign" at a centre (e.g., Vulcan House, Dallas Court), there is always a risk of detention.

Be Prepared

Let a friend know exactly when your appointment is.
agree a time they should panic if you haven't called.
Have your lawyer's number written on your arm/paper (phone may be taken).

If Detained

You will likely be taken to a holding room and then moved to an IRC (Immigration Removal Centre). Do not sign any documents agreeing to leave voluntarily ("Voluntary Return") without legal advice.

Protecting yourself in the
Hostile Environment

Select Situation

Home "Dawn" Raids

Do not open the door

Check the Warrant

Street Spot Checks

You can walk away

Warning: Fingerprints

Workplace Raids

Do not try to run

"Am I free to go?"

Reporting Centre Visits

Be Prepared

If Detained

Protecting yourself in the Hostile Environment

Select Situation

Home "Dawn" Raids

Do not open the door

Check the Warrant

Street Spot Checks

You can walk away

Warning: Fingerprints

Workplace Raids

Do not try to run

"Am I free to go?"

Reporting Centre Visits

Be Prepared

If Detained

We value your privacy

We value your privacy

Protecting yourself in the
Hostile Environment