UK Expands ‘Deport First, Appeal Later’ Scheme to 23 Countries: What Families and Immigration Clients Need to Know

The UK Government has announced a significant expansion of its ‘Deport First, Appeal Later’ scheme, now covering 23 countries. This controversial policy allows certain foreign nationals convicted of crimes in England and Wales to be deported before their appeal is heard, unless they can prove they would face serious harm in their home country.

Originally introduced in 2014, the scheme was paused, then restarted in 2023. It has now been widened to include 15 additional countries.

Which countries are now covered?

Existing countries in the scheme:

Tanzania

Finland

Estonia

Belize

India

Bulgaria

Australia

Canada

Newly added countries (2025):

Angola

Botswana

Brunei

Guyana

Indonesia

Kenya

Latvia

Lebanon

Malaysia

Uganda

Zambia

That’s a total of 23 countries where foreign nationals can now be removed from the UK before their appeal is heard, unless they meet the exemption criteria.

How does the policy work?

They can still appeal their deportation, but this is done remotely, often via video link, rather than from within the UK.

Why is it controversial?

Former justice secretaries Alex Chalk and Robert Buckland have criticised the expansion, warning that:

Some offenders might avoid serving any prison sentence in the UK.

Victims may feel justice is not fully served.

The UK could be seen as a “soft touch” for foreign offenders.

The government argues the policy will help reduce prison overcrowding and prevent offenders from using the appeal process to delay removal.

Who is affected?

This applies to foreign nationals convicted of crimes in England and Wales who are from one of the listed countries.
Key points:

Life sentence prisoners (e.g., for terrorism or murder) will serve their full term in the UK before deportation.

Anyone who can show they would face serious harm in their home country may be exempt.

Impact on families and immigration cases

This policy may have serious consequences for families where a partner or parent faces deportation, including:

Sudden separation with little time to prepare.

Difficulty maintaining child contact arrangements.

Legal challenges of conducting appeals from abroad.

What to do if you or your family may be affected.

If you or someone you know is from one of these countries and is facing criminal charges in the UK:

Seek legal advice immediately — early intervention can make a huge difference.

Collect evidence — especially regarding risk of harm in your home country.

Understand the appeal process — including remote hearings.

At Fard Solicitors, our award-winning immigration lawyers have extensive experience in both family and immigration law, including complex deportation appeals. We can help protect your rights and your family’s future. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.