Legal Information For Migrants At The No Border Camp

( download this as a PDF-document )

Everyone should read this: we need to look out for eachother.

People without leave to remain

Anyone who has not been given leave to remain in the UK may be taken into detention at any time by an immigration officer under the 1971 & 1999 Immigration Acts. This includes people who have claimed asylum or who are waiting for an appeal. These powers are generally used where removal directions have been issued but it could happen. You are more likely to be detained if you have been arrested. People are often arrested on minor charges at demonstrations and events such as the no border camp. You should consider this risk and try to minimize contact with the police.

If you don’t have leave to remain, you should always carry:

  • copies of all documents relevant to your claim
  • emergency contact numbers for your solicitors
  • contact details for your MP (they sometimes get people out)
  • contact details of a friend who also has copies of your documents

Powers of arrest for immigration offences

You may be arrested and detained by the police or an immigration officer if they reasonably suspect that you have:

  • illegally entered the UK
  • overstayed your leave
  • not been complying with restrictions imposed on your leave

(e.g. if you have failed to report)

See: http://www.ncadc.org.uk/campaigns/youmust.htm for more information.

If you are convicted of one of these offences in court you could be sent to prison for up to 6 months. If you think you may have committed an immigration offence, we advise you not to attend the camp or demonstrations. Find other ways to show your support which will keep you free.

If you are not sure whether you should attend or have any questions about this legal advice, there will be a legal support number on the website shortly which you can call. You may also wish to ring this number before arriving at the camp if you have uncertain status and would like to know whether to expect police searches etc on the way in or would like someone to accompany you from the train station.