The Independent Chief Inspector of Borders and Immigration (ICIBI) has opened a formal call for evidence as it begins a wide-ranging inspection of how the Home Office protects children who come into contact with the UK’s migration and border processes. Written submissions are invited from charities, local authorities, carriers, lawyers, foster-care providers and any individuals with first-hand experience of the system. The evidence window closes on 25 October 2026. The inspection forms part of the ICIBI’s 2026-27 work-plan and will examine every stage of the journey, from initial interception at the border through asylum accommodation, age-assessment, detention, returns and long-term status resolution. Particular attention will be paid to whether front-line staff have clear safeguarding guidance and whether digital status systems adequately flag children at risk. Business travel and global mobility managers should note that failures uncovered in previous ICIBI reports have translated into sudden policy shifts—such as last year’s suspension of children’s short-stay detention—sometimes at only a few days’ notice. Companies relocating staff with dependants could therefore face new documentation or welfare checks in 2027 if recommendations are rapidly adopted. The review also has reputational stakes for the UK. The government is currently lobbying to join the EU’s Schengen Information System as an associate partner; Brussels officials have already signalled that robust child-protection standards are a non-negotiable pre-condition. A critical ICIBI report could complicate those talks and indirectly affect future visa-waiver negotiations. Affected stakeholders are encouraged to submit evidence early and to audit their own child-safeguarding protocols, particularly if they sponsor minor dependants under the Skilled Worker, Global Business Mobility or Student routes.
