Immigration Detention
Immigration detention is NOT a prison. It is administrative detention in an IRC. You have rights: lawyer, medical care, bail. Bail is possible — you can get out.
What is detention
An Immigration Removal Centre (IRC) is a place where the Home Office holds people while deciding about deportation. There are 11 such centres in the UK. They are run by private companies.
It is NOT a prison. You have not committed a crime. But you cannot leave without permission.
Who gets detained
Your rights in detention
How to get out of detention
The UK is the only country in Europe with no time limit on detention. You can be held for weeks, months, sometimes years.
Exception: pregnant women — maximum 72 hours. Extension up to 7 days only with minister approval.
Statistics
Every year about 23,000 people go through IRCs.
Who can help
Frequently asked questions
Is this a prison?
No. An Immigration Removal Centre (IRC) is NOT a prison. It is administrative detention. You have not committed a crime. But you cannot leave without permission.
Will I get a free lawyer?
A lawyer is NOT given automatically — detainees themselves request representation. BID (Bail for Immigration Detainees, 020 7456 9750) is a charity that helps find a free lawyer through Legal Aid. The welfare officer at the centre can usually provide a list of available solicitors.
What is Rule 35?
Rule 35 is a provision of the Detention Centre Rules 2001: the doctor at the IRC is required to write a report if a detainee is a victim of torture, trafficking, or seriously ill. The standard phrase to request it: "I want a Rule 35 assessment". The report goes to the Home Office, which must consider release. Details — from a solicitor.
How do I apply for bail?
Bail is applied for through the Immigration Tribunal — a lawyer and a bail address (where the detainee will live after release) are needed. BID helps for free. If refused, a new application is usually possible — specific strategy is discussed with a solicitor.
Can pregnant women be detained?
Pregnant women can be detained for a maximum of 72 hours. Extension up to 7 days only with minister approval. This is an exception — for everyone else there is no limit.
What if I feel unwell or in crisis?
Go to the healthcare team at the centre — they must help you. Call Medical Justice (020 7561 7498) for an independent assessment. Samaritans: 116 123 (free, 24/7).