LONDON: India is among 15 countries newly added to the UK’s “deport now, appeal later” list, meaning nationals convicted of crimes will be removed from Britain before they can challenge the decision in person. Instead, appeals will be heard remotely via video link from their home country.
The policy does not apply to terrorists, murderers, or those serving life sentences, who must complete their prison term in the UK before deportation is considered. Previously, offenders from these nations could remain in Britain for years while appealing deportation under human rights laws. Deportees are barred from re-entering the UK; whether they face prison upon return is up to their home country.
Before the expansion, the list included Finland, Nigeria, Estonia, Albania, Belize, Mauritius, Tanzania, and Kosovo. Newly added are Angola, Australia, Botswana, Brunei, Bulgaria, Canada, Guyana, India, Indonesia, Kenya, Latvia, Lebanon, Malaysia, Uganda, and Zambia. The UK government is in talks with other nations to join the scheme.
As of June 30, 2025, 320 Indian nationals—310 men and 10 women—were imprisoned in England and Wales. Most foreign prisoners are eligible for deportation after serving 30% of their sentence, but the UK’s Ministry of Justice announced on Sunday that deportations will begin immediately after sentencing, pending parliamentary approval.
Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood warned: “If you abuse our hospitality and break our laws, we will send you packing.” In 2025’s first quarter, 1,903 people were deported to India; last year, the total was 6,069, including overstayers and failed asylum seekers.
