Missed a check-in — what to do
This page is for people who have already missed a check-in. If you are reading just to be prepared and have not missed anything — relax. Bookmark this page and read /en/reporting/ instead. The information here is calibrated for an emergency. Act within the next 60 minutes.
What the Home Office does when you miss a check-in
The system records every missed event automatically. Within hours, the Reporting and Offender Management (ROM) team starts a routine.
What to do — the first 24 hours
Do all of these in order. If you cannot do all five, do at least the first two. Do them now.
Acceptable reasons (with evidence)
| Reason | Evidence you need |
|---|---|
| Hospitalisation | Hospital discharge letter or ward admission record. |
| Death of close family member | Death certificate, funeral notice, hospital letter. |
| Public transport disruption | Screenshot of TfL / National Rail cancellation, time visible. |
| Severe illness | GP letter or NHS 111 record (urgent — get on the day). |
| Phone / IBDR app failure | Screenshots, error messages, repair receipt. |
| Court attendance you could not move | Court order or summons. |
Reasons that almost never work
- "I forgot."
- "I had to work."
- "I had no childcare."
- "The bus was a bit late."
- "I felt unwell but did not see a doctor."
- "My English is bad and I did not understand the letter."
For work, childcare, language difficulties, or distance — the right route is variation in advance, not a missed check-in. Read /en/reporting/vary-conditions/.
What to do if...
Red flags — common mistakes
- Hiding. Going to a friend's flat makes you a "non-compliant absconder". The Home Office will find you, and your case will be much worse.
- Lying about why. The Home Office cross-checks. A false reason ends your credibility.
- Waiting "until tomorrow" to call. The first 24 hours are critical.
- Sending one email and assuming it is read. Phone first, email second, always with your reference number.
- Letting the Home Office contact you. Proactive contact is the difference between a warning and an arrest warrant.
When to call who — emergency phone tree
Frequently asked questions
What happens if I missed my check-in and did not call?
The system records the missed event automatically. After about 72 hours of no contact, an enforcement visit can be authorised at your registered address. The Home Office can also treat your asylum claim as withdrawn. Call Migrant Help on 0808 801 0503 right now — it is free and available 24 hours a day.
Is 'I forgot' an acceptable reason for missing a check-in?
No. 'I forgot' is not an acceptable reason. Acceptable reasons include hospitalisation, death of a close family member, confirmed transport disruption, or IBDR system failure — all with supporting documents.
What should I do if immigration officers come to my home?
Stay calm. Open the door politely. Do not run. Demand a phone call to your solicitor and to BID. Do not sign any document you do not understand. Ask for an interpreter — this is your right.
Can I recover from a missed check-in?
Yes, in most cases — if you act fast. Most missed events end in a phone call and a rescheduled appointment. The key is that you must contact them first. Do not wait for the Home Office to find you.
Informational content only. SNL is not registered with the Immigration Advice Authority (IAA). Nothing here constitutes immigration advice. For help with your case: Migrant Help on 0808 801 0503 or an IAA-registered solicitor via /database/lawyers/.