Immigration Act 1971

Changes over time for: Part III

Version Superseded: 14/03/2019

Alternative versions:

Status:

Point in time view as at 23/05/2018.

Changes to legislation:

Immigration Act 1971, Part III is up to date with all changes known to be in force on or before 15 November 2024. There are changes that may be brought into force at a future date. Changes that have been made appear in the content and are referenced with annotations.

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Part IIIU.K. Criminal Proceedings

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C1Pt. III extended (with modfications) (1.8.1993) by S.I. 1993/1796, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 Pt. I (Guernsey), S.I. 1993/1797, art. 3(1), Sch. 1 Pt. I (Jersey) (as amended by S.I. 2003/1252, art. 3(b) and (17.10.2012) by S.I. 2012/2593, arts. 1, 2(2))

C2Pt. III extended (Isle of Man) (with modifications) (13.3.2008 for certain purposes and 1.5.2008 otherwise) by The Immigration (Isle of Man) Order 2008 (S.I. 2008/680), arts. 1(2), 5, 6(2)(b), 7, Sch. 3, Sch. 10 Pt. 1 (with Sch. 2 para. 2) (as amended (14.3.2019) by S.I. 2019/562, arts. 1, 5, 11)

C3Pt. III modified by Immigration Act 2014 (c. 22), s. 33C(6) (as inserted (1.11.2016 for specified purposes, 1.12.2016 in so far as not already in force) by Immigration Act 2016 (c. 19), ss. 39(2), 94(1); S.I. 2016/1037, regs. 2(a), 5(c))

24 Illegal entry and similar offences.U.K.

(1)A person who is not [F1a British citizen] shall be guilty of an offence punishable on summary conviction with a fine of not more than [F2[F3level 5]on the standard scale] or with imprisonment for not more than six months, or with both, in any of the following cases:—

(a)if contrary to this Act he knowingly enters the United Kingdom in breach of a deportation order or without leave;

F4(aa). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(b)if, having only a limited leave to enter or remain in the United Kingdom, he knowingly either—

(i)remains beyond the time limited by the leave; or

(ii)fails to observe a condition of the leave;

(c)if, having lawfully entered the United Kingdom without leave by virtue of section 8(1) above, he remains without leave beyond the time allowed by section 8(1);

(d)if, without reasonable excuse, he fails to comply with any requirement imposed on him under Schedule 2 to this Act to report to [F5a medical officer of health][F5the chief administrative medical officer of a Health Board][F6or the chief administrative medical officer of a Health and Social Services Board], or to attend, or submit to a test or examination, as required by such an officer;

F7(e). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(f)if he disembarks in the United Kingdom from a ship or aircraft after being placed on board under Schedule 2 or 3 to this Act with a view to his removal from the United Kingdom;

(g)if he embarks in contravention of a restriction imposed by or under an Order in Council under section 3(7) of this Act[F8;

(h)if the person is on immigration bail within the meaning of Schedule 10 to the Immigration Act 2016 and, without reasonable excuse, the person breaches a bail condition within the meaning of that Schedule.]

[F9(1A)A person commits an offence under subsection (1)(b)(i) above on the day when he first knows that the time limited by his leave has expired and continues to commit it throughout any period during which he is in the United Kingdom thereafter; but a person shall not be prosecuted under that provision more than once in respect of the same limited leave.]

F10(2). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(3)The extended time limit for prosecutions which is provided for by section [F1128(1)] below shall apply to offences under [F12subsection (1)(a) and (c)] above.

[F13(3A)The extended time limit for prosecutions which is provided for by section 28(1A) below shall apply to offences under subsection (1)(h) above.]

(4)In proceedings for an offence against subsection (1)(a) above of entering the United Kingdom without leave,—

(a)any stamp purporting to have been imprinted on a passport or other travel document by an immigration officer on a particular date for the purpose of giving leave shall be presumed to have been duly so imprinted, unless the contrary is proved;

(b)proof that a person had leave to enter the United Kingdom shall lie on the defence if, but only if, he is shown to have entered within six months before the date when the proceedings were commenced.

Textual Amendments

F1Words substituted by British Nationality Act 1981 (c. 61), s. 52(7), Sch. 4 para. 2 (with Sch. 8 para. 8)

F2Words substituted (E.W.) (S.) (11.4.1983) by virtue of (E.W.) Criminal Justice Act 1982 (c. 48), ss. 38, 46 and (S.) Criminal Procedure (Scotland) Act 1975 (c. 21), ss. 289F, 289G (as inserted by Criminal Justice Act 1982 (c. 48), s. 54), and (N.I) by virtue of S.I. 1984/703 (N.I. 3), arts. 5, 6

F3Words in s. 24(1) substituted (1.10.1996) by 1996 c. 49, s. 6; S.I. 1996/2053, art. 2, Sch. Pt. III

F4S. 24(1)(aa) repealed (14.2.2000) by 1999 c. 33, s. 169(1)(3), Sch. 14 para. 50, Sch. 16; S.I. 2000/168, art. 2, Sch. (which amending provision is extended (with modifications) to Jersey (5.6.2003) by S.I. 2003/1252, art. 2, Sch.)

F5Words “the chief” to “Health Board” substituted for words “a medical officer of health” (S.) by National Health Service (Scotland) Act 1972 (c. 58), Sch. 6 para. 155; continued by National Health Service (Scotland) Act 1978 (c. 29), Sch. 15 para. 10

F6Words inserted (N.I.) by S.R. & O. (N.I.) 1973/256, Sch. 2

F7S. 24(1)(e) omitted (15.1.2018) by virtue of Immigration Act 2016 (c. 19), s. 94(1), Sch. 10 para. 16(2)(a); S.I. 2017/1241, reg. 2(c) (with Sch.) (as amended by S.I. 2018/31, reg. 2)

F8S. 24(1)(h) inserted (15.1.2018) by Immigration Act 2016 (c. 19), s. 94(1), Sch. 10 para. 16(2)(b); S.I. 2017/1241, reg. 2(c) (with Sch.) (as amended by S.I. 2018/31, reg. 2)

F9S. 24(1A) inserted by Immigration Act 1988 (c. 14, SIF 62), s. 6(1)(3)

F10S. 24(2) repealed (14.2.2000) by 1999 c. 33, s. 169(1)(3), Sch. 14 para. 50, Sch. 16; S.I. 2000/168, art. 2, Sch. (which amending provision is extended (with modifications) to Jersey (5.6.2003) by S.I. 2003/1252, art. 2, Sch.)

F11Word in s. 24(3) substituted (15.1.2018) by Immigration Act 2016 (c. 19), s. 94(1), Sch. 10 para. 16(3); S.I. 2017/1241, reg. 2(c) (with Sch.) (as amended by S.I. 2018/31, reg. 2)

F12Words “subsection (1)(a) and (c)” substituted for “subsection (1)(a), (b)(i) and (c)” by Immigration Act 1988 (c. 14, SIF 62), s. 6(2)(3)

F13S. 24(3A) inserted (15.1.2018) by Immigration Act 2016 (c. 19), s. 94(1), Sch. 10 para. 16(4); S.I. 2017/1241, reg. 2(c) (with Sch.) (as amended by S.I. 2018/31, reg. 2)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C4S. 24 modified (2.8.1993) by S.I. 1993/1813, arts. 7(1), 1, Sch. 4 para 1(7)

C5Ss. 24-29: amendment to earlier affecting S.I. 1993/1797, Sch. 1 Pt. 1 (11.10.2017 coming into force in accordance with art. 1) by The Immigration (Jersey) (Amendment) Order 2017 (S.I. 2017/981), Sch. Pt. 1 para. 1 (with art. 6)

C6S. 24(1)(a)(b) amended (S.) by Criminal Justice (Scotland) Act 1980 (c. 62), s. 26, Sch. 1

[F1424A Deception.U.K.

(1)A person who is not a British citizen is guilty of an offence if, by means which include deception by him—

(a)he obtains or seeks to obtain leave to enter or remain in the United Kingdom; or

(b)he secures or seeks to secure the avoidance, postponement or revocation of enforcement action against him.

(2)“Enforcement action”, in relation to a person, means—

(a)the giving of directions for his removal from the United Kingdom (“directions”) under Schedule 2 to this Act or section 10 of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999;

(b)the making of a deportation order against him under section 5 of this Act; or

(c)his removal from the United Kingdom in consequence of directions or a deportation order.

(3)A person guilty of an offence under this section is liable—

(a)on summary conviction, to imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months or to a fine not exceeding the statutory maximum, or to both; or

(b)on conviction on indictment, to imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years or to a fine, or to both.

(4)F15. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .]

Textual Amendments

F14S. 24A inserted (14.2.2000) by 1999 c. 33, s. 28; S.I. 2000/168, art. 2, Sch. (which amending provision is extended (with modifications) to Jersey (5.6.2003) by S.I. 2003/1252, art. 2, Sch.)

F15S. 24A(4) repealed (10.2.2003) by 2002 c. 41, ss. 156(2), 161, Sch. 9 (with s. 159); S.I. 2003/1, art. 2, Sch.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C7S. 24A modified (11.11.1999) by 1999 c. 33, ss. 31(1)(2)(3)(b)(4)(c), 170(3) (which amending provision is extended (with modifications) to Jersey (5.6.2003) by S.I. 2003/1252, art. 2, Sch.)

[F1624BIllegal workingU.K.

(1)A person (“P”) who is subject to immigration control commits an offence if—

(a)P works at a time when P is disqualified from working by reason of P's immigration status, and

(b)at that time P knows or has reasonable cause to believe that P is disqualified from working by reason of P's immigration status.

(2)For the purposes of subsection (1) a person is disqualified from working by reason of the person's immigration status if—

(a)the person has not been granted leave to enter or remain in the United Kingdom, or

(b)the person's leave to enter or remain in the United Kingdom—

(i)is invalid,

(ii)has ceased to have effect (whether by reason of curtailment, revocation, cancellation, passage of time or otherwise), or

(iii)is subject to a condition preventing the person from doing work of that kind.

(3)A person who is guilty of an offence under subsection (1) is liable on summary conviction—

(a)in England and Wales, to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 51 weeks or a fine, or both,

(b)in Scotland or Northern Ireland, to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 6 months or a fine not exceeding level 5 on the standard scale, or both.

(4)In relation to an offence committed before section 281(5) of the Criminal Justice Act 2003 comes into force, the reference in subsection (3)(a) to 51 weeks is to be read as a reference to 6 months.

(5)If a person is convicted of an offence under subsection (1) in England and Wales, the prosecutor must consider whether to ask the court to commit the person to the Crown Court under section 70 of the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 (committal with view to confiscation order being considered).

(6)If a person is convicted of an offence under subsection (1) in Scotland, the prosecutor must consider whether to ask the court to act under section 92 of the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 (making of confiscation order).

(7)If a person is convicted of an offence under subsection (1) in Northern Ireland, the prosecutor must consider whether to ask the court to commit the person to the Crown Court under section 218 of the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 (committal with view to confiscation order being considered).

(8)The reference in subsection (1) to a person who is subject to immigration control is to a person who under this Act requires leave to enter or remain in the United Kingdom.

(9)Where a person is on immigration bail within the meaning of Part 1 of Schedule 10 to the Immigration Act 2016—

(a)the person is to be treated for the purposes of subsection (2) as if the person had been granted leave to enter the United Kingdom, but

(b)any condition as to the person's work in the United Kingdom to which the person's immigration bail is subject is to be treated for those purposes as a condition of leave.

(10)The reference in subsection (1) to a person working is to that person working—

(a)under a contract of employment,

(b)under a contract of apprenticeship,

(c)under a contract personally to do work,

(d)under or for the purposes of a contract for services,

(e)for a purpose related to a contract to sell goods,

(f)as a constable,

(g)in the course of Crown employment,

(h)as a relevant member of the House of Commons staff, or

(i)as a relevant member of the House of Lords staff.

(11)In subsection (10)—

“contract to sell goods” means a contract by which a person acting in the course of a trade, business, craft or profession transfers or agrees to transfer the property in goods to another person (and for this purpose “goods” means any tangible moveable items);
“Crown employment”—
(a)
in relation to England and Wales and Scotland, has the meaning given by section 191(3) of the Employment Rights Act 1996;
(b)
in relation to Northern Ireland, has the meaning given by Article 236(3) of the Employment Rights (Northern Ireland) Order 1996 (SI 1996/1919 (NI 16));
“relevant member of the House of Commons staff” has the meaning given by section 195(5) of the Employment Rights Act 1996;
“relevant member of the House of Lords staff” has the meaning given by section 194(6) of the Employment Rights Act 1996.

(12)Subsection (1) does not apply to—

(a)service as a member of the naval, military or air forces of the Crown, or

(b)employment by an association established for the purposes of Part 11 of the Reserve Forces Act 1996.

(13)In this section “contract” means a contract whether express or implied and, if express, whether oral or in writing.]

Textual Amendments

F16S. 24B inserted (12.7.2016) by Immigration Act 2016 (c. 19), ss. 34(3), 94(1); S.I. 2016/603, reg. 3(e) (with transitional provision in S.I. 2016/712, art. 2)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

[F1725 Assisting unlawful immigration to member StateU.K.

(1)A person commits an offence if he—

(a)does an act which facilitates the commission of a breach [F18or attempted breach] of immigration law by an individual who is not a citizen of the European Union,

(b)knows or has reasonable cause for believing that the act facilitates the commission of a breach [F18or attempted breach] of immigration law by the individual, and

(c)knows or has reasonable cause for believing that the individual is not a citizen of the European Union.

(2)In subsection (1) “immigration law” means a law which has effect in a member State and which controls, in respect of some or all persons who are not nationals of the State, entitlement to—

(a)enter the State,

(b)transit across the State, or

(c)be in the State.

(3)A document issued by the government of a member State certifying a matter of law in that State—

(a)shall be admissible in proceedings for an offence under this section, and

(b)shall be conclusive as to the matter certified.

[F19(4)Subsection (1) applies to things done whether inside or outside the United Kingdom.]

(6)A person guilty of an offence under this section shall be liable—

(a)on conviction on indictment, to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 14 years, to a fine or to both, or

(b)on summary conviction, to imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months, to a fine not exceeding the statutory maximum or to both.]

[F20(7)In this section—

(a)a reference to a member State includes a reference to a State on a list prescribed for the purposes of this section by order of the Secretary of State (to be known as the “Section 25 List of Schengen Acquis States”), and

(b)a reference to a citizen of the European Union includes a reference to a person who is a national of a State on that list.

(8)An order under subsection (7)(a)—

(a)may be made only if the Secretary of State thinks it necessary for the purpose of complying with the United Kingdom’s obligations under the [F21EU] Treaties,

(b)may include transitional, consequential or incidental provision,

(c)shall be made by statutory instrument, and

(d)shall be subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament.]

Textual Amendments

F17Ss. 25-25C substituted (10.2.2003) for s. 25 by 2002 c. 41, s. 143 (with s. 159); S.I. 2003/1, art. 2, Sch.

F18Words in s. 25(1)(a)(b) inserted (31.5.2016) by Immigration Act 2016 (c. 19), s. 94(1), Sch. 14 para. 2; S.I. 2016/603, reg. 2(d)

F19S. 25(4) substituted for s. 25(4)(5) (31.1.2008) by UK Borders Act 2007 (c. 30), ss. 30(1), 59; S.I. 2008/99, art. 2(l)

F20S. 25(7)(8) added (1.10.2004) by Asylum and Immigration (Treatment of Claimants, etc.) Act 2004 (c. 19), s. 1(1); S.I. 2004/2523, art. 2, Sch.

F21Word in Act substituted (22.4.2011) by The Treaty of Lisbon (Changes in Terminology) Order 2011 (S.I. 2011/1043), arts. 2, 3, 6 (with arts. 3(2)(3), 4(2), 6(4)(5))

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

[F2225A Helping asylum-seeker to enter United KingdomU.K.

(1)A person commits an offence if—

(a)he knowingly and for gain facilitates the arrival [F23or attempted arrival ] in [F24, or the entry [F25or attempted entry] into,] the United Kingdom of an individual, and

(b)he knows or has reasonable cause to believe that the individual is an asylum-seeker.

(2)In this section “asylum-seeker” means a person who intends to claim that to remove him from or require him to leave the United Kingdom would be contrary to the United Kingdom’s obligations under—

(a)the Refugee Convention (within the meaning given by section 167(1) of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999 (c. 33) (interpretation)), or

(b)the Human Rights Convention (within the meaning given by that section).

(3)Subsection (1) does not apply to anything done by a person acting on behalf of an organisation which—

(a)aims to assist asylum-seekers, and

(b)does not charge for its services.

(4)[F26Subsections (4) and (6)] of section 25 apply for the purpose of the offence in subsection (1) of this section as they apply for the purpose of the offence in subsection (1) of that section.]

Textual Amendments

F22Ss. 25-25C substituted (10.2.2003) for s. 25 by 2002 c. 41, s. 143 (with s. 159); S.I. 2003/1, art. 2, Sch.

F23Words in s. 25A(1)(a) inserted (31.5.2016) by Immigration Act 2016 (c. 19), s. 94(1), Sch. 14 para. 3(a); S.I. 2016/603, reg. 2(d)

F24Words in s. 25A(1)(a) inserted (31.1.2008) by UK Borders Act 2007 (c. 30), ss. 29, 59; S.I. 2008/99, art. 2

F25Words in s. 25A(1)(a) inserted (31.5.2016) by Immigration Act 2016 (c. 19), s. 94(1), Sch. 14 para. 3(b); S.I. 2016/603, reg. 2(d)

F26Words in s. 25A(4) substituted (31.1.2008) by UK Borders Act 2007 (c. 30), ss. 30(2), 59; S.I. 2008/99, art. 2

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

[F2725B Assisting entry to United Kingdom in breach of deportation or exclusion orderU.K.

(1)A person commits an offence if he—

(a)does an act which facilitates a breach [F28or attempted breach ] of a deportation order in force against an individual who is a citizen of the European Union, and

(b)knows or has reasonable cause for believing that the act facilitates a breach [F28or attempted breach] of the deportation order.

[F29(2)Subsection (3) applies where the Secretary of State has made an order excluding an individual from the United Kingdom on the grounds of public policy, public security or public health, other than a temporary exclusion order.]

(3)A person commits an offence if he—

(a)does an act which assists the individual to arrive in, enter or remain [F30, or attempt to arrive in, enter or remain, ] in the United Kingdom,

(b)knows or has reasonable cause for believing that the act assists the individual to arrive in, enter or remain [F30, or attempt to arrive in, enter or remain, ] in the United Kingdom, and

(c)knows or has reasonable cause for believing that the Secretary of State has [F31made an order excluding the individual from the United Kingdom on the grounds of public policy, public security or public health] .

(4)[F32Subsections (4) and (6)] of section 25 apply for the purpose of an offence under this section as they apply for the purpose of an offence under that section.]

[F33(5)In this section a “temporary exclusion order” means an order under section 2 of the Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015.]

Textual Amendments

F27Ss. 25-25C substituted (10.2.2003) for s. 25 by 2002 c. 41, s. 143 (with s. 159); S.I. 2003/1, art. 2, Sch.

F28Words in s. 25B(1)(a)(b) inserted (31.5.2016) by Immigration Act 2016 (c. 19), s. 94(1), Sch. 14 para. 4(a); S.I. 2016/603, reg. 2(d)

F29S. 25B(2) substituted (31.5.2016) by Immigration Act 2016 (c. 19), s. 94(1), Sch. 14 para. 4(b); S.I. 2016/603, reg. 2(d)

F30Words in s. 25B(3)(a)(b) inserted (31.5.2016) by Immigration Act 2016 (c. 19), s. 94(1), Sch. 14 para. 4(c)(i); S.I. 2016/603, reg. 2(d)

F31Words in s. 25B(3)(c) substituted (31.5.2016) by Immigration Act 2016 (c. 19), s. 94(1), Sch. 14 para. 4(c)(ii); S.I. 2016/603, reg. 2(d)

F32Words in s. 25B(4) substituted (31.1.2008) by UK Borders Act 2007 (c. 30), ss. 30(2), 59; S.I. 2008/99, art. 2

F33S. 25B(5) inserted (31.5.2016) by Immigration Act 2016 (c. 19), s. 94(1), Sch. 14 para. 4(d); S.I. 2016/603, reg. 2(d)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

[F3425C Forfeiture of vehicle, ship or aircraftU.K.

(1)This section applies where a person is convicted on indictment of an offence under section 25, 25A or 25B.

(2)The court may order the forfeiture of a vehicle used or intended to be used in connection with the offence if the convicted person—

(a)owned the vehicle at the time the offence was committed,

(b)was at that time a director, secretary or manager of a company which owned the vehicle,

(c)was at that time in possession of the vehicle under a hire-purchase agreement,

(d)was at that time a director, secretary or manager of a company which was in possession of the vehicle under a hire-purchase agreement, or

(e)was driving the vehicle in the course of the commission of the offence.

(3)The court may order the forfeiture of a ship or aircraft used or intended to be used in connection with the offence if the convicted person—

(a)owned the ship or aircraft at the time the offence was committed,

(b)was at that time a director, secretary or manager of a company which owned the ship or aircraft,

(c)was at that time in possession of the ship or aircraft under a hire-purchase agreement,

(d)was at that time a director, secretary or manager of a company which was in possession of the ship or aircraft under a hire-purchase agreement,

(e)was at that time a charterer of the ship or aircraft, or

(f)committed the offence while acting as captain of the ship or aircraft.

(4)But in a case to which subsection (3)(a) or (b) does not apply, forfeiture may be ordered only—

(a)in the case of a ship, if subsection (5) or (6) applies;

(b)in the case of an aircraft, if subsection (5) or (7) applies.

(5)This subsection applies where—

(a)in the course of the commission of the offence, the ship or aircraft carried more than 20 illegal entrants, and

(b)a person who, at the time the offence was committed, owned the ship or aircraft or was a director, secretary or manager of a company which owned it, knew or ought to have known of the intention to use it in the course of the commission of an offence under section 25, 25A or 25B.

(6)This subsection applies where a ship’s gross tonnage is less than 500 tons.

(7)This subsection applies where the maximum weight at which an aircraft (which is not a hovercraft) may take off in accordance with its certificate of airworthiness is less than 5,700 kilogrammes.

(8)Where a person who claims to have an interest in a vehicle, ship or aircraft applies to a court to make representations on the question of forfeiture, the court may not make an order under this section in respect of the ship, aircraft or vehicle unless the person has been given an opportunity to make representations.

(9)In the case of an offence under section 25, the reference in subsection (5)(a) to an illegal entrant shall be taken to include a reference to—

(a)an individual who seeks to enter a member State in breach of immigration law [F35 (for which purpose “member State” and “immigration law” have the meanings given by section 25(2) and (7))] , and

(b)an individual who is [F36the victim of conduct which constitutes an offence under section 2 of the Modern Slavery Act 2015 (human trafficking).] [F37the victim of conduct which constitutes an offence under section 2 of the Human Trafficking and Exploitation (Criminal Justice and Support for Victims) Act (Northern Ireland 2015] [F38the victim of conduct which constitutes an offence of human trafficking (see section 1 of the Human Trafficking and Exploitation (Scotland) Act 2015).]

(10)In the case of an offence under section 25A, the reference in subsection (5)(a) to an illegal entrant shall be taken to include a reference to—

(a)an asylum-seeker (within the meaning of that section), and

(b)an individual who is [F39the victim of conduct which constitutes an offence under section 2 of the Modern Slavery Act 2015 (human trafficking).] [F40the victim of conduct which constitutes an offence under section 2 of the Human Trafficking and Exploitation (Criminal Justice and Support for Victims) Act (Northern Ireland 2015] [F41the victim of conduct which constitutes an offence of human trafficking (see section 1 of the Human Trafficking and Exploitation (Scotland) Act 2015).]

(11)In the case of an offence under section 25B, the reference in subsection (5)(a) to an illegal entrant shall be taken to include a reference to an individual who is [F42the victim of conduct which constitutes an offence under section 2 of the Modern Slavery Act 2015 (human trafficking).] [F43the victim of conduct which constitutes an offence under section 2 of the Human Trafficking and Exploitation (Criminal Justice and Support for Victims) Act (Northern Ireland 2015] [F44the victim of conduct which constitutes an offence of human trafficking (see section 1 of the Human Trafficking and Exploitation (Scotland) Act 2015).]]

Textual Amendments

F34Ss. 25-25C substituted (10.2.2003) for s. 25 by 2002 c. 41, s. 143 (with s. 159); S.I. 2003/1, art. 2, Sch.

F35Words in s. 25C(9)(a) substituted (1.10.2004) by Asylum and Immigration (Treatment of Claimants, etc.) Act 2004 (c. 19), s. 1(2); S.I. 2004/2523, art. 2, Sch.

F36Words in s. 25C(9)(b) substituted (E.W.) (31.7.2015) by Modern Slavery Act 2015 (c. 30), s. 61(3), Sch. 5 para. 2; S.I. 2015/1476, reg. 2(j) (with regs. 4 8)

F37Words in s. 25C(9)(b) substituted (N.I.) (14.1.2015) by Human Trafficking and Exploitation (Criminal Justice and Support for Victims) Act (Northern Ireland) 2015 (c. 2), s. 28(2), Sch. 4 para. 2

F38Words in s. 25C(9)(b) substituted (S.) (17.12.2016) by The Human Trafficking and Exploitation (Scotland) Act 2015 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2016 (S.I. 2016/1031), art. 1(1), Sch. para. 1 (with art. 4(1))

F39Words in s. 25C(10)(b) substituted (E.W.) (31.7.2015) by Modern Slavery Act 2015 (c. 30), s. 61(3), Sch. 5 para. 2; S.I. 2015/1476, reg. 2(j) (with regs. 4 8)

F40Words in s. 25C(10)(b) substituted (N.I.) (14.1.2015) by Human Trafficking and Exploitation (Criminal Justice and Support for Victims) Act (Northern Ireland) 2015 (c. 2), s. 28(2), Sch. 4 para. 2

F41Words in s. 25C(10)(b) substituted (S.) (17.12.2016) by The Human Trafficking and Exploitation (Scotland) Act 2015 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2016 (S.I. 2016/1031), art. 1(1), Sch. para. 1 (with art. 4(1))

F42Words in s. 25C(11) substituted (E.W.) (31.7.2015) by Modern Slavery Act 2015 (c. 30), s. 61(3), Sch. 5 para. 2; S.I. 2015/1476, reg. 2(j) (with regs. 4 8)

F43Words in s. 25C(11) substituted (N.I.) (14.1.2015) by Human Trafficking and Exploitation (Criminal Justice and Support for Victims) Act (Northern Ireland) 2015 (c. 2), s. 28(2), Sch. 4 para. 2

F44Words in s. 25C(11) substituted (S.) (17.12.2016) by The Human Trafficking and Exploitation (Scotland) Act 2015 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2016 (S.I. 2016/1031), art. 1(1), Sch. para. 1 (with art. 4(1))

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C8Ss. 25C, 25D applied (1.12.2004) by Asylum and Immigration (Treatment of Claimants, etc.) Act 2004 (c. 19), s. 5(4); S.I. 2004/2999, art. 2, Sch.; S.S.I. 2004/494, art. 2

C9S. 25C applied (10.2.2003) by 2002 c. 41, s. 146(3) (with s. 159); S.I. 2003/1, art. 2, Sch.

[F46[F4525D][F45 Detention of ship, aircraft or vehicle]U.K.

(1)If a person has been arrested for an offence under [F47section 25, 25A or 25B], a senior officer or a constable may detain a relevant ship, aircraft or vehicle—

(a)until a decision is taken as to whether or not to charge the arrested person with that offence; or

(b)if the arrested person has been charged—

(i)until he is acquitted, the charge against him is dismissed or the proceedings are discontinued; or

(ii)if he has been convicted, until the court decides whether or not to order forfeiture of the ship, aircraft or vehicle.

(2)A ship, aircraft or vehicle is a relevant ship, aircraft or vehicle, in relation to an arrested person, if it is one which the officer or constable concerned has reasonable grounds for believing could, on conviction of the arrested person for the offence for which he was arrested, be the subject of an order for forfeiture made under [F48section 25C].

[F49(3)A person (other than the arrested person) may apply to the court for the release of a ship, aircraft or vehicle on the grounds that—

(a)he owns the ship, aircraft or vehicle,

(b)he was, immediately before the detention of the ship, aircraft or vehicle, in possession of it under a hire-purchase agreement, or

(c)he is a charterer of the ship or aircraft.]

(4)The court to which an application is made under subsection (3) may, on such security or surety being tendered as it considers satisfactory, release the ship, aircraft or vehicle on condition that it is made available to the court if—

(a)the arrested person is convicted; and

(b)an order for its forfeiture is made under [F48section 25C].

(5)In the application to Scotland of subsection (1), for paragraphs (a) and (b) substitute—

“(a)until a decision is taken as to whether or not to institute criminal proceedings against the arrested person for that offence; or

(b)if criminal proceedings have been instituted against the arrested person—

(i)until he is acquitted or, under section 65 or 147 of the M1Criminal Procedure (Scotland) Act 1995, discharged or liberated or the trial diet is deserted simpliciter;

(ii)if he has been convicted, until the court decides whether or not to order forfeiture of the ship, aircraft or vehicle,

and for the purposes of this subsection, criminal proceedings are instituted against a person at whichever is the earliest of his first appearance before the sheriff on petition, or the service on him of an indictment or complaint.”

(6)“Court” means—

(a)in England and Wales—

[F50(ia)if the arrested person has not been charged, or he has been charged but proceedings for the offence have not begun to be heard, a magistrates' court;]

(iii)if he has been charged and proceedings for the offence are being heard, the court hearing the proceedings;

(b)in Scotland, the sheriff; and

(c)in Northern Ireland—

[F51(i)if the arrested person has not been charged, or he has been charged but proceedings for the offence have not begun to be heard, a magistrates' court;]

(iii)if he has been charged and proceedings for the offence are being heard, the court hearing the proceedings.

(7)F52. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(8)“Senior officer” means an immigration officer not below the rank of chief immigration officer.]

Textual Amendments

F45S. 25A renumbered as s. 25D and title substituted (10.2.2003) by 2002 c. 41, s. 144 (with s. 159); S.I. 2003/1, art. 2, Sch.

F46S. 25A (since renumbered as s. 25D) inserted (3.4.2000) by 1999 c. 33, s. 38(2)(4); S.I. 2000/464, art. 2, Sch. (which amending provision is extended (with modifications) to Jersey (5.6.2003) by S.I. 2003/1252, art. 2, Sch.)

F47Words in s. 25D(1) substituted (10.2.2003) by 2002 c. 41, s. 144(2)(a) (with s. 159); S.I. 2003/1, art. 2, Sch.

F48Words in s. 25D(2)(4) substituted (10.2.2003) by 2002 c. 41, s. 144(2)(b) (with s. 159); S.I. 2003/1, art. 2, Sch.

F49S. 25D(3) substituted (10.2.2003) by 2002 c. 41, s. 144(2)(c) (with s. 159); S.I. 2003/1, art. 2, Sch.

F50S. 25D(6)(a)(ia) substituted (1.4.2005) for s. 25D(6)(a)(i)(ii) by Courts Act 2003 (c. 39), s. 109(1), Sch. 8 para. 147; S.I. 2005/910, art. 3(y)(bb)

F51S. 25D(6)(c)(i) substituted for s. 25D(6)(c)(i)(ii) (N.I.) (31.10.2016) by Justice Act (Northern Ireland) 2015 (c. 9), s. 106(2), Sch. 1 para. 64(1) (with Sch. 8 para. 1); S.R. 2016/387, art. 2(k) (with art. 3)

F52S. 25D(7) repealed (10.2.2003) by virtue of 2002 c. 41, ss. 144(2)(d), 161, Sch. 9 (with s. 159); S.I. 2003/1, art. 2, Sch.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C10S. 25D applied (10.2.2003) by 2002 c. 41, s. 146(3) (with s. 159); S.I. 2003/1, art. 2, Sch.

C11Ss. 25C, 25D applied (1.12.2004) by Asylum and Immigration (Treatment of Claimants, etc.) Act 2004 (c. 19), s. 5(4); S.I. 2004/2999, art. 2, Sch.; S.S.I. 2004/494, art. 2

Marginal Citations

M11995 c. 46.

26 General offences in connection with administration of Act.U.K.

(1)A person shall be guilty of an offence punishable on summary conviction with a fine of not more than [F53[F54level 5] on the standard scale] or with imprisonment for not more than six months, or with both, in any of the following cases—

(a)if, without reasonable excuse, he refuses or fails to submit to examination under Schedule 2 to this Act;

(b)if, without reasonable excuse, he refuses or fails to furnish or produce any information in his possession, or any documents in his possession or control, which he is on an examination under that Schedule required to furnish or produce;

(c)if on any such examination or otherwise he makes or causes to be made to an immigration officer or other person lawfully acting in the execution of [F55a relevant enactment] a return, statement or representation which he knows to be false or does not believe to be true;

(d)if, without lawful authority, he alters any [F56certificate of entitlement], entry clearance, work permit or other document issued or made under or for the purposes of this Act, or uses for the purposes of this Act, or has in his possession for such use, any passport, [F56certificate of entitlement], entry clearance, work permit or other document which he knows or has reasonable cause to believe to be false;

(e)if, without reasonable excuse, he fails to complete and produce a landing or embarkation card in accordance with any order under Schedule 2 to this Act;

(f)if, without reasonable excuse, he fails to comply with any requirement of regulations under section 4(3) or of an order under section 4(4) above;

(g)if, without reasonable excuse, he obstructs an immigration officer or other person lawfully acting in the execution of this Act.

(2)The extended time limit for prosecutions which is provided for by section 28 below shall apply to offences under subsection (1)(c) and (d) above.

[F57(3)“Relevant enactment” means—

(a)this Act;

(b)the M2Immigration Act 1988;

(c)the M3Asylum and Immigration Appeals Act 1993 (apart from section 4 or 5);F58. . .

(d)the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999 (apart from Part VI) [F59 ; or

(e)the Nationality, Immigration and Asylum Act 2002 (apart from Part 5).]]

Textual Amendments

F53Words substituted (E.W.) (S.) (11.4.1983) by virtue of (E.W.) Criminal Justice Act 1982 (c. 48), ss. 38, 46 and (S.) Criminal Procedure (Scotland) Act 1975 (c. 21), ss. 289F, 289G (as inserted by Criminal Justice Act 1982 (c. 48), s. 54), and (N.I) by virtue of S.I. 1984/703 (N.I. 3), arts. 5, 6

F54Words in s. 26(1) substituted (1.10.1996) by 1996 c. 49, s. 6; S.I. 1996/2053, art. 2, Sch. Pt. III

F55Words in s. 26(1)(c) substituted (14.2.2000) by 1999 c. 33, s. 30(1)(2); S.I. 2000/168, art. 2, Sch. (which amending provision is extended (with modifications) to Jersey (5.6.2003) by S.I. 2003/1252, art. 2, Sch.)

F56Words substituted by British Nationality Act 1981 (c. 61), s. 52(7), Sch. 4 para. 3(1) (with Sch. 8 para. 8)

F57S. 26(3) inserted (14.2.2000) by 1999 c. 33, s. 30(1)(3); S.I. 2000/168, art. 2, Sch. (which amending provision is extended (with modifications) to Jersey (5.6.2003) by S.I. 2003/1252, art. 2, Sch.)

F58Word after s. 26(3)(c) repealed (10.2.2003) by 2002 c. 41, ss. 151(a), 161, Sch. 9 (with s. 159); S.I. 2003/1, art. 2, Sch.

F59S. 26(3)(e) and preceding word inserted (10.2.2003) by 2002 c. 41, s. 151(b) (with s. 159); S.I. 2003/1, art. 2, Sch.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C12S. 26(1)(d) modified (11.11.2000) by 1999 c. 33, ss. 31(1)(2)(3)(c)(4)(d), 170(3) (which amending provision is extended (with modifications) to Jersey (5.6.2003) by S.I. 2003/1252, art. 2, Sch.)

C13S. 26(1)(f) amended (S.) by Criminal Justice (Scotland) Act 1980 (c. 62), s. 26, Sch. 1

Marginal Citations

M21988 c. 14.

M31993 c. 23.

[F6026A Registration cardU.K.

(1)In this section “registration card” means a document which—

(a)carries information about a person (whether or not wholly or partly electronically), and

[F61(b)is issued by the Secretary of State to the person wholly or partly in connection with—

(i)a claim for asylum (whether or not made by that person), or

(ii)a claim for support under section 4 of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999 (whether or not made by that person).]

(2)In subsection (1) “claim for asylum” has the meaning given by section 18 of the Nationality, Immigration and Asylum Act 2002.

(3)A person commits an offence if he—

(a)makes a false registration card,

(b)alters a registration card with intent to deceive or to enable another to deceive,

(c)has a false or altered registration card in his possession without reasonable excuse,

(d)uses or attempts to use a false registration card for a purpose for which a registration card is issued,

(e)uses or attempts to use an altered registration card with intent to deceive,

(f)makes an article designed to be used in making a false registration card,

(g)makes an article designed to be used in altering a registration card with intent to deceive or to enable another to deceive, or

(h)has an article within paragraph (f) or (g) in his possession without reasonable excuse.

(4)In subsection (3) “false registration card” means a document which is designed to appear to be a registration card.

(5)A person who is guilty of an offence under subsection (3)(a), (b), (d), (e), (f) or (g) shall be liable—

(a)on conviction on indictment, to imprisonment for a term not exceeding ten years, to a fine or to both, or

(b)on summary conviction, to imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months, to a fine not exceeding the statutory maximum or to both.

(6)A person who is guilty of an offence under subsection (3)(c) or (h) shall be liable—

(a)on conviction on indictment, to imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years, to a fine or to both, or

(b)on summary conviction, to imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months, to a fine not exceeding the statutory maximum or to both.

(7)The Secretary of State may by order—

(a)amend the definition of “registration card” in subsection (1);

(b)make consequential amendment of this section.

(8)An order under subsection (7)—

(a)must be made by statutory instrument, and

(b)may not be made unless a draft has been laid before and approved by resolution of each House of Parliament.]

Textual Amendments

F60S. 26A inserted (10.2.2003) by 2002 c. 41, s. 148 (with s. 159); S.I. 2003/1, art. 2, Sch.

F61S. 26A(1)(b) substituted (27.6.2008) by The Immigration (Registration Card) Order 2008 (S.I. 2008/1693), art. 2

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

[F6226B Possession of immigration stampU.K.

(1)A person commits an offence if he has an immigration stamp in his possession without reasonable excuse.

(2)A person commits an offence if he has a replica immigration stamp in his possession without reasonable excuse.

(3)In this section—

(a)“immigration stamp” means a device which is designed for the purpose of stamping documents in the exercise of an immigration function,

(b)“replica immigration stamp” means a device which is designed for the purpose of stamping a document so that it appears to have been stamped in the exercise of an immigration function, and

(c)“immigration function” means a function of an immigration officer or the Secretary of State under the Immigration Acts.

(4)A person who is guilty of an offence under this section shall be liable—

(a)on conviction on indictment, to imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years, to a fine or to both, or

(b)on summary conviction, to imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months, to a fine not exceeding the statutory maximum or to both.]

Textual Amendments

F62S. 26B inserted (10.2.2003) by 2002 c. 41, s. 149 (with s. 159); S.I. 2003/1, art. 2, Sch.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

27 Offences by persons connected with ships or aircraft or with ports.U.K.

F63(1)A person shall be guilty of an offence punishable on summary conviction with a fine of not more than [F64[F65level 5] on the standard scale] or with imprisonment for not more than six months, or with both, in any of the following cases—

(a)if, being the captain of a ship or aircraft,—

(i)he knowingly permits a person to disembark in the United Kingdom when required under Schedule 2 or 3 to this Act to prevent it, or fails without reasonable excuse to take any steps he is required by or under Schedule 2 to take in connection with the disembarkation or examination of passengers or for furnishing a passenger list or particulars of members of the crew; or

(ii)he fails, without reasonable excuse, to comply with any directions given him under Schedule 2 or 3 [F66or under the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999]with respect to the removal of a person from the United Kingdom;

(b)if, as owner or agent of a ship or aircraft,—

(i)he arranges, or is knowingly concerned in any arrangements, for the ship or aircraft to call at a port other than a port of entry contrary to any provision of Schedule 2 to this Act; or

(ii)he fails, without reasonable excuse, to take any steps required by an order under Schedule 2 for the supply to passengers of landing or embarkation cards; or

(iii)he fails, without reasonable excuse, to make arrangements for [F67or in connection with] the removal of a person from the United Kingdom when required to do so by directions given under Schedule 2 or 3 to this Act; [F68or under the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999; or

[F69(iiia)he fails, without reasonable excuse, to comply with a direction under paragraph 5B of Schedule 2; or]

(iv)he fails, without reasonable excuse, to comply with [F70[F71any other requirement] imposed by or under Schedule 2] ;]

(c)if, F72. . . as a person concerned in the management of a port, he fails, without reasonable excuse, to take any steps required by Schedule 2 in relation to the embarkation or disembarkation of passengers where a control area is designated.

[F73(ca)if as a person concerned in the management of a port he fails, without reasonable excuse, to comply with a direction under paragraph 5B of Schedule 2.]

[F74(d). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .]

[F75(2)Proceedings may not be instituted against a person under subsection (1)(a)(i) or (1)(b)(iv) for a failure to provide information or otherwise to comply with a requirement imposed under paragraph 27, 27B or 27BA of Schedule 2 where—

(a)the person has paid a penalty in respect of the same failure, or a failure to provide the same information, by virtue of regulations made under—

(i)paragraph 27BB of Schedule 2,

(ii)section 32B of the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006, or

(iii)section 24 of the Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015 (penalty for breach of authority-to-carry scheme); or

(b)proceedings have been instituted against the person under section 34 of the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006 in respect of a failure to provide the same information.]

Textual Amendments

F63S. 27(1): s. 27 renumbered as s. 27(1) (12.2.2015) by Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015 (c. 6), s. 52(5), Sch. 5 para. 2(a)

F64Words substituted: (E.W.) (11.4.1983) by virtue of (E.W.) Criminal Justice Act 1982 (c. 48), ss. 38, 46; (S.) (11.4.1983) by virtue of Criminal Procedure (Scotland) Act 1975 (c. 21), ss. 289F, 289G (as inserted by Criminal Justice Act 1982 (c. 48), s. 54); (N.I.) (19.7.1984) by virtue of S.I. 1984/703 (N.I. 3), arts. 5, 6

F65Words in s. 27 substituted (1.10.1996) by 1996 c. 49, s. 6; S.I. 1996/2053, art. 2, Sch. Pt. III

F66Words in s. 27(a)(ii) inserted (2.10.2000) by 1999 c. 33, s. 169(1), Sch. 14 paras. 43, 52(1)(2); S.I. 2000/2444, art. 2, Sch. 1 (subject to transitional provisions in art. 3, Sch. 2 para. 2) (which amending provision is extended (with modifications) to Jersey (5.6.2003) by S.I. 2003/1252, art. 2, Sch.)

F67Words in s. 27(b)(iii) inserted (1.3.2000) by 1999 c. 33, s. 169(1), Sch. 14 paras. 43, 52(1)(3)(a); S.I. 2000/464, art. 2, Sch. (which amending provision is extended (with modifications) to Jersey (5.6.2003) by S.I. 2003/1252, art. 2, Sch.)

F68S. 27(b)(iv) and preceding words inserted (3.4.2000) by 1999 c. 33, s. 169(1), Sch. 14 paras. 43, 52(1)(3)(b); S.I. 2000/464, art. 2, Sch. (which amending provision is extended (with modifications) to Jersey (5.6.2003) by S.I. 2003/1252, art. 2, Sch.)

F69S. 27(b)(iiia) inserted (28.7.2014) by Immigration Act 2014 (c. 22), s. 75(3), Sch. 8 para. 7(2)(a); S.I. 2014/1820, art. 3(bb)

F70Words in s. 27(b)(iv) substituted (1.3.2008) by Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006 (c. 13), ss. 31(4)(a), 62; S.I. 2007/3138, art. 3(b) (as amended by S.I. 2007/3580, art. 2)

F71Words in s. 27(b)(iv) substituted (28.7.2014) by Immigration Act 2014 (c. 22), s. 75(3), Sch. 8 para. 7(2)(b); S.I. 2014/1820, art. 3(bb)

F72Words in s. 27(c) repealed (1.3.2008) by Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006 (c. 13), ss. 31(4)(b), 61, 62, Sch. 3; S.I. 2007/3138, art. 3(b)(c) (as amended by S.I. 2007/3580, art. 2)

F73S. 27(ca) inserted (28.7.2014) by Immigration Act 2014 (c. 22), s. 75(3), Sch. 8 para. 7(3); S.I. 2014/1820, art. 3(bb)

F74S. 27(d) repealed (2.8.1993) by S.I. 1993/1813, arts. 9, 1, Sch. 6 Pt. I

F75S. 27(2) inserted (12.2.2015) by Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015 (c. 6), s. 52(5), Sch. 5 para. 2(b)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C14S. 27 modified (2.8.1993) by S.I. 1993/1813, arts. 7(1), 1, Sch. 4 para 1(9)(as amended (1.12.1997) by S.I. 1994/1405, art. 8, Sch. 4 para. 11 Table; and as further amended (5.8.2014) by S.I. 2014/1814, arts. 1, 2(2))

C15S. 27: amendment to earlier affecting provision S.I. 1993/1813, Sch. 4 para. 1(9) (5.8.2014) by The Channel Tunnel (International Arrangements) (Amendment) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/1814), arts. 1, 2(2)

28 Proceedings.U.K.

(1)Where the offence is one to which, under section [F7624(3)] F77. . . or 26 above, an extended time limit for prosecutions is to apply, then—

(a)an information relating to the offence may in England and Wales be tried by a magistrates’ court if it is laid within six months after the commission of the offence, or if it is laid within three years after the commission of the offence and not more than two months after the date certified by [F78an officer of police above the rank of chief superintendent] to be the date on which evidence sufficient to justify proceedings came to the notice of an officer of [F78the police force to which he belongs]; and

(b)summary proceedings for the offence may in Scotland be commenced within six months after the commission of the offence, or within three years after the commission of the offence and not more than two months after the date on which evidence sufficient in the opinion of the Lord Advocate to justify proceedings came to his knowledge; and

(c)a complaint charging the commission of the offence may in Northern Ireland be heard and determined by a magistrates’ court if it is made within six months after the commission of the offence, or if it is made within three years after the commission of the offence and not more than two months after the date certified by an officer of police not below the rank of assistant chief constable to be the date on which evidence sufficient to justify the proceedings came to the notice of the police in Northern Ireland.

[F79(1A)Where the offence is one to which, under section 24(3A), an extended time limit for prosecutions is to apply, then—

(a)an information relating to the offence may in England and Wales be tried by a magistrates' court if it is laid—

(i)within the period of six months beginning with the date of the commission of the offence, or

(ii)within the period of three months beginning with the date when the person is first arrested for the offence or under paragraph 10 of Schedule 10 to the Immigration Act 2016 (arrest for breach of bail condition), if that period expires after the end of the period mentioned in sub-paragraph (i),

(b)summary proceedings for the offence may in Scotland be commenced—

(i)within the period of six months beginning with the date of the commission of the offence, or

(c)a complaint charging the commission of an offence under this paragraph may in Northern Ireland be heard and determined by a magistrates' court if it is made—

(i)within the period of six months beginning with the date of the commission of the offence, or

(2)For purposes of [F80subsections (1)(b) and (1A)(b)] above proceedings shall be deemed to be commenced on the date on which a warrant to apprehend or to cite the accused is granted, if such warrant is executed without undue delay; and a certificate of the Lord Advocate as to the date on which such evidence as is mentioned in [F80subsections (1)(b) and (1A)(b)] came to his knowledge shall be conclusive evidence.

[F81(2A)Section 3 of the Territorial Waters Jurisdiction Act 1878 (consent of Secretary of State for certain prosecutions) does not apply to proceedings for an offence under section 25, 25A or 25B.]

(3)For the purposes of the trial of a person for an offence under this Part of this Act, the offence shall be deemed to have been committed either at the place at which it actually was committed or at any place at which he may be.

(4)Any powers exercisable under this Act in the case of any person may be exercised notwithstanding that proceedings for an offence under this Part of this Act have been taken against him.

Textual Amendments

F76Word in s. 28(1) substituted (15.1.2018) by Immigration Act 2016 (c. 19), s. 94(1), Sch. 10 para. 17(2); S.I. 2017/1241, reg. 2(c) (with Sch.) (as amended by S.I. 2018/31, reg. 2)

F77Words in s. 28(1) repealed (10.2.2003) by 2002 c. 41, s. 156(1), 161, Sch. 9 (with s. 159); S.I. 2003/1, art. 2, Sch

F78Words substituted by Immigration Act 1988 (c. 14, SIF 62), s. 10, Sch. para. 4

F79S. 28(1A) inserted (15.1.2018) by Immigration Act 2016 (c. 19), s. 94(1), Sch. 10 para. 17(3); S.I. 2017/1241, reg. 2(c) (with Sch.) (as amended by S.I. 2018/31, reg. 2)

F80Words in s. 28(2) substituted (15.1.2018) by Immigration Act 2016 (c. 19), s. 94(1), Sch. 10 para. 17(4); S.I. 2017/1241, reg. 2(c) (with Sch.) (as amended by S.I. 2018/31, reg. 2)

F81S. 28(2A) inserted (31.5.2016) by Immigration Act 2016 (c. 19), s. 94(1), Sch. 14 para. 5; S.I. 2016/603, reg. 2(d)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C16S. 28(1) applied (1.4.2003) by 1996 c. 49, s. 8(9) (as added by 2002 c. 41, s. 147(4) (with s. 159)); S.I. 2003/754, art. 2, Sch. 1 (with transitional provisions in arts. 3, 4, Sch. 2 (as amended by S.I. 2003/1040 and 2003/1339))

S. 28(1) applied (1.5.2004) by The Accession (Immigration and Worker Registration) Regulations 2004 (S.I. 2004/1219), reg. 9(10)

C17S. 28(4) modified (22.9.2004) by Asylum and Immigration (Treatment of Claimants, etc.) Act 2004 (c. 19), ss. 2(11)(b), 48(1)

C18S. 28(4) modified by Immigration and Asylum Act 1999 (c. 33), s. 109B(1)(b) (as inserted (31.1.2008) by UK Borders Act 2007 (c. 30), ss. 18, 59; S.I. 2008/99, art. 2)

S. 28(4) modified (31.1.2008) by UK Borders Act 2007 (c. 30), ss. 23(2)(b), 59; S.I. 2008/99, art. 2

[F8228A Arrest without warrant.E+W

(1)[F83An] immigration officer may arrest without warrant a person—

(a)who has committed or attempted to commit an offence under section 24 or 24A; or

(b)whom he has reasonable grounds for suspecting has committed or attempted to commit such an offence.

(2)But subsection (1) does not apply in relation to an offence under section 24(1)(d).

(3)An immigration officer may arrest without warrant a person—

(a)who has committed [F84or attempted to commit] an offence under [F85section [F8624B,] 25, 25A or 25B]; or

(b)whom he has reasonable grounds for suspecting has committed [F84or attempted to commit ] that offence.

(4)F87. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(5)An immigration officer may arrest without warrant a person (“the suspect”) who, or whom he has reasonable grounds for suspecting—

(a)has committed or attempted to commit an offence under section 26(1)(g); or

(b)is committing or attempting to commit that offence.

(6)The power conferred by subsection (5) is exercisable only if either the first or the second condition is satisfied.

(7)The first condition is that it appears to the officer that service of a summons (or, in Scotland, a copy complaint) is impracticable or inappropriate because—

(a)he does not know, and cannot readily discover, the suspect’s name;

(b)he has reasonable grounds for doubting whether a name given by the suspect as his name is his real name;

(c)the suspect has failed to give him a satisfactory address for service; or

(d)he has reasonable grounds for doubting whether an address given by the suspect is a satisfactory address for service.

(8)The second condition is that the officer has reasonable grounds for believing that arrest is necessary to prevent the suspect—

(a)causing physical injury to himself or another person;

(b)suffering physical injury; or

(c)causing loss of or damage to property.

(9)For the purposes of subsection (7), an address is a satisfactory address for service if it appears to the officer—

(a)that the suspect will be at that address for a sufficiently long period for it to be possible to serve him with a summons (or copy complaint); or

(b)that some other person specified by the suspect will accept service of a summons (or copy complaint) for the suspect at that address.

[F88(9A)[F83An] immigration officer may arrest without warrant a person—

(a)who has committed an offence under section 26A or 26B; or

(b)whom he has reasonable grounds for suspecting has committed an offence under section 26A or 26B.]

[F89(9B)An immigration officer may arrest without warrant a person who, or whom the immigration officer has reasonable grounds for suspecting—

(a)has committed or attempted to commit an offence under section 21(1) or (1A) of the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006 (employment of illegal worker etc), or

(b)is committing or attempting to commit that offence.]

[F90(9C)An immigration officer may arrest without warrant a person who, or whom the immigration officer has reasonable grounds for suspecting—

(a)has committed or attempted to commit an offence under section 33A or 33B of the Immigration Act 2014 (offences relating to residential tenancies), or

(b)is committing or attempting to commit that offence.]

(10)In relation to the exercise of the powers conferred by subsections (3)(b)F91. . . [F92, (5) [F93, (9B) and (9C)]] , it is immaterial that no offence has been committed.

(11)In Scotland the powers conferred by subsections (3)F94. . . [F95, (5) [F96, (9B) and (9C)]] may also be exercised by a constable.]

Extent Information

E1This version of this provision extends to England and Wales only; a separate version has been created for Scotland and Northern Ireland only

Textual Amendments

F82S. 28A inserted (14.2.2000) by 1999 c. 33, s. 128; S.I. 2000/168, art. 2, Sch. (which amending provision is extended (with modifications) to Jersey (5.6.2003) by S.I. 2003/1252, art. 2, Sch.)

F83Words in s. 28A(1)(9A) substituted (E.W.) (1.1.2006) by Serious Organised Crime and Police Act 2005 (c. 15), s. 111, Sch. 7 para. 53; S.I. 2005/3495, art. 2(1)(m) (subject to art. 2(2))

F84Words in s. 28A(3)(a)(b) inserted (31.5.2016) by Immigration Act 2016 (c. 19), s. 94(1), Sch. 14 para. 6; S.I. 2016/603, reg. 2(d)

F85Words in s. 28A(3)(a) substituted (10.2.2003) by 2002 c. 41, s. 144(3)(a) (with s. 159); S.I. 2003/1, art. 2, Sch.

F86Word in s. 28A(3)(a) inserted (12.7.2016) by Immigration Act 2016 (c. 19), ss. 34(4), 94(1); S.I. 2016/603, reg. 3(e) (with transitional provision in S.I. 2016/712, art. 2)

F87S. 28A(4) repealed (10.2.2003) by 2002 c. 41, ss. 144(3)(b), 161, Sch. 9 (with s. 159); S.I. 2003/1, art. 2, Sch.

F88S. 28A(9A) inserted (10.2.2003) by 2002 c. 41, s. 150(1) (with s. 159); S.I. 2003/1, art. 2, Sch.

F89S. 28A(9B) inserted (12.7.2016) by Immigration Act 2016 (c. 19), ss. 35(9)(a), 94(1); S.I. 2016/603, reg. 3(f)

F90S. 28A(9C) inserted (1.11.2016 for specified purposes, 1.12.2016 in so far as not already in force) by Immigration Act 2016 (c. 19), ss. 39(6)(a), 94(1); S.I. 2016/1037, reg. 2(a), 5(c)

F91Words in s. 28A(10) repealed (10.2.2003) by 2002 c. 41, ss. 144(3)(c), 161, Sch. 9 (with s. 159); S.I. 2003/1, art. 2, Sch.

F92Words in s. 28A(10) substituted (12.7.2016) by Immigration Act 2016 (c. 19), ss. 35(9)(b), 94(1); S.I. 2016/603, reg. 3(f)

F93Words in s. 28A(10) substituted (1.11.2016 for specified purposes, 1.12.2016 in so far as not already in force) by Immigration Act 2016 (c. 19), ss. 39(6)(b), 94(1); S.I. 2016/1037, regs. 2(a), 5(c)

F94Words in s. 28A(11) repealed (10.2.2003) by 2002 c. 41, ss. 144(3)(d), 161, Sch. 9 (with s. 159); S.I. 2003/1, art. 2, Sch.

F95Words in s. 28A(11) substituted (12.7.2016) by Immigration Act 2016 (c. 19), ss. 35(9)(c), 94(1); S.I. 2016/603, reg. 3(f)

F96Words in s. 28A(11) substituted (1.11.2016 for specified purposes, 1.12.2016 in so far as not already in force) by Immigration Act 2016 (c. 19), ss. 39(6)(c), 94(1); S.I. 2016/1037, regs. 2(a), 5(c)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C19Ss. 28A, 28CA, 28FA modified (1.1.2007) by The Accession (Immigration and Worker Authorisation) Regulations 2006 (S.I. 2006/3317), reg. 15(c)

C20S. 28A(1)(3) amended (coming into force in accordance with art. 1(2) of the substituting S.I.) by S.I. 1993/1813, art. 6, Sch. 3 Pt. I para. 2(1)(a)(2)(a) (as substituted (coming into force in accordance with art. 1(2) of the substituting S.I.) by S.I. 2001/1544, art. 4(2))

C21S. 28A(1) modified (1.7.2013) by The Accession of Croatia (Immigration and Worker Authorisation) Regulations 2013 (S.I. 2013/1460), regs. 1(1), 18(c) (with reg. 11(8))

C22S. 28A(3) modified (coming into force in accordance with art. 1(2) of the inserting S.I.) by S.I. 1993/1813, art. 7(1), Sch. 4 para. 1(9A) (as inserted (coming into force in accordance with art. 1(2) of the inserting S.I.) by S.I. 2001/1544, art. 6(2))

C23S. 28A(6)-(9)(10)(11) applied (with modifications) by Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 (c. 29), s. 453C(4) (as inserted (27.4.2017 for specified purposes) by Criminal Finances Act 2017 (c. 22), ss. 25, 58(1), (6))

C24S. 28A(6)-(9) applied (with modifications) by 2002 c. 29, s. 453C(4) (as inserted (27.4.2017 for specified purposes, 31.1.2018 for E.W.S. in so far as not already in force) by Criminal Finances Act 2017 (c. 22), ss. 25, 58(1)(6); S.I. 2018/78, reg. 3(j))

C25S. 28A(10)(11) applied (with modifications) by 2002 c. 29, s. 453C(4) (as inserted (27.4.2017 for specified purposes, 31.1.2018 for E.W.S. in so far as not already in force) by Criminal Finances Act 2017 (c. 22), ss. 25, 58(1)(6); S.I. 2018/78, reg. 3(j))

[F8228AArrest without warrant.S

(1)A constable or immigration officer may arrest without warrant a person—

(a)who has committed or attempted to commit an offence under section 24 or 24A; or

(b)whom he has reasonable grounds for suspecting has committed or attempted to commit such an offence.

(2)But subsection (1) does not apply in relation to an offence under section 24(1)(d).

(3)An immigration officer may arrest without warrant a person—

(a)who has committed [F84or attempted to commit] an offence under [F85section [F8624B,] 25, 25A or 25B]; or

(b)whom he has reasonable grounds for suspecting has committed [F84or attempted to commit] that offence.

(4)F87. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(5)An immigration officer may arrest without warrant a person (“the suspect”) who, or whom he has reasonable grounds for suspecting—

(a)has committed or attempted to commit an offence under section 26(1)(g); or

(b)is committing or attempting to commit that offence.

(6)The power conferred by subsection (5) is exercisable only if either the first or the second condition is satisfied.

(7)The first condition is that it appears to the officer that service of a summons (or, in Scotland, a copy complaint) is impracticable or inappropriate because—

(a)he does not know, and cannot readily discover, the suspect’s name;

(b)he has reasonable grounds for doubting whether a name given by the suspect as his name is his real name;

(c)the suspect has failed to give him a satisfactory address for service; or

(d)he has reasonable grounds for doubting whether an address given by the suspect is a satisfactory address for service.

(8)The second condition is that the officer has reasonable grounds for believing that arrest is necessary to prevent the suspect—

(a)causing physical injury to himself or another person;

(b)suffering physical injury; or

(c)causing loss of or damage to property.

(9)For the purposes of subsection (7), an address is a satisfactory address for service if it appears to the officer—

(a)that the suspect will be at that address for a sufficiently long period for it to be possible to serve him with a summons (or copy complaint); or

(b)that some other person specified by the suspect will accept service of a summons (or copy complaint) for the suspect at that address.

[F88(9A)A constable or immigration officer may arrest without warrant a person—

(a)who has committed an offence under section 26A or 26B; or

(b)whom he has reasonable grounds for suspecting has committed an offence under section 26A or 26B.]

[F89(9B)An immigration officer may arrest without warrant a person who, or whom the immigration officer has reasonable grounds for suspecting—

(a)has committed or attempted to commit an offence under section 21(1) or (1A) of the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006 (employment of illegal worker etc), or

(b)is committing or attempting to commit that offence.]

[F90(9C)An immigration officer may arrest without warrant a person who, or whom the immigration officer has reasonable grounds for suspecting—

(a)has committed or attempted to commit an offence under section 33A or 33B of the Immigration Act 2014 (offences relating to residential tenancies), or

(b)is committing or attempting to commit that offence.]

(10)In relation to the exercise of the powers conferred by subsections (3)(b) F91. . . [F92, (5) [F93, (9B) and (9C)]] , it is immaterial that no offence has been committed.

(11)In Scotland the powers conferred by subsections (3) F94. . . [F95, (5) [F96, (9B) and (9C)]] may also be exercised by a constable.]

Extent Information

E2This version of this provision extends to Scotland and Northern Ireland only; a separate version has been created for England and Wales only

Textual Amendments

F82S. 28A inserted (14.2.2000) by 1999 c. 33, s. 128; S.I. 2000/168, art. 2, Sch. (which amending provision is extended (with modifications) to Jersey (5.6.2003) by S.I. 2003/1252, art. 2, Sch.)

F84Words in s. 28A(3)(a)(b) inserted (31.5.2016) by Immigration Act 2016 (c. 19), s. 94(1), Sch. 14 para. 6; S.I. 2016/603, reg. 2(d)

F85Words in s. 28A(3)(a) substituted (10.2.2003) by 2002 c. 41, s. 144(3)(a) (with s. 159); S.I. 2003/1, art. 2, Sch.

F86Word in s. 28A(3)(a) inserted (12.7.2016) by Immigration Act 2016 (c. 19), ss. 34(4), 94(1); S.I. 2016/603, reg. 3(e) (with transitional provision in S.I. 2016/712, art. 2)

F87S. 28A(4) repealed (10.2.2003) by 2002 c. 41, ss. 144(3)(b), 161, Sch. 9 (with s. 159); S.I. 2003/1, art. 2, Sch.

F88S. 28A(9A) inserted (10.2.2003) by 2002 c. 41, s. 150(1) (with s. 159); S.I. 2003/1, art. 2, Sch.

F89S. 28A(9B) inserted (12.7.2016) by Immigration Act 2016 (c. 19), ss. 35(9)(a), 94(1); S.I. 2016/603, reg. 3(f)

F90S. 28A(9C) inserted (1.11.2016 for specified purposes, 1.12.2016 in so far as not already in force) by Immigration Act 2016 (c. 19), ss. 39(6)(a), 94(1); S.I. 2016/1037, reg. 2(a), 5(c)

F91Words in s. 28A(10) repealed (10.2.2003) by 2002 c. 41, ss. 144(3)(c), 161, Sch. 9 (with s. 159); S.I. 2003/1, art. 2, Sch.

F92Words in s. 28A(10) substituted (12.7.2016) by Immigration Act 2016 (c. 19), ss. 35(9)(b), 94(1); S.I. 2016/603, reg. 3(f)

F94Words in s. 28A(11) repealed (10.2.2003) by 2002 c. 41, ss. 144(3)(d), 161, Sch. 9 (with s. 159); S.I. 2003/1, art. 2, Sch.

F95Words in s. 28A(11) substituted (12.7.2016) by Immigration Act 2016 (c. 19), ss. 35(9)(c), 94(1); S.I. 2016/603, reg. 3(f)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C19Ss. 28A, 28CA, 28FA modified (1.1.2007) by The Accession (Immigration and Worker Authorisation) Regulations 2006 (S.I. 2006/3317), reg. 15(c)

C21S. 28A(1) modified (1.7.2013) by The Accession of Croatia (Immigration and Worker Authorisation) Regulations 2013 (S.I. 2013/1460), regs. 1(1), 18(c) (with reg. 11(8))

[F8228A Arrest without warrant.N.I.

(1)[F165An] immigration officer may arrest without warrant a person—