Frequently Asked Questions

10. Requesting adjournment

My hearing is within the next 7 days but I can't attend. What should I do?

If you can't attend the hearing you should write to the hearing centre where your case is to be heard as soon as possible and no later than 2 business days (business days mean Monday – Friday, UK holidays do not count as business days) before the hearing to explain fully the reasons why you are unable to attend. It would be helpful if you could state the hearing date and your appeal number.

Details of the hearing centres can be found on the following page hearing centres.

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My hearing is more than 7 days away but I know I won't be able to attend. What should I do?

If you can't attend the hearing you should fax or write to our Support Centre as soon as possible to explain fully the reasons why you are unable to attend. It would be helpful to supply the hearing date and your appeal number. The contact address is:

AIT Arnhem Support Centre
PO Box 6987
Leicester
LE1 6ZX

Fax 0116 249 4130 or 0116 249 4252 If you are faxing from overseas the numbers are 0044 116 249 4130 or 0044 249 4252

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I can't attend the full hearing. Will the decision be made in my absence?

You can ask for the hearing to take place in your absence or to request that it take place at a later date or to be held at a different place. You must write to the hearing centre at least 2 business days (business days mean Monday – Friday, UK holidays do not count as business days) before the hearing is due to take place and your letter will be given to an Immigration Judge who will make a decision on how, when and where your appeal will be heard. It is possible that the judge will decide the hearing must go ahead and you must then chose what to do. You should provide all the details you can to help the judge reach a decision, for example, doctor's certificates or confirmation of an operation.

We will write to all parties to the appeal (you, your representative if you have one and the Home Office) to inform them of the judge's decision.

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