Making a Fast-Track Subject Access Request via the Pilot Scheme
An individual is entitled to exercise their right to obtain information that is held about them under the Data Protection Act 1998. This process is known as a Subject Access Request. The ‘subject’ or ‘data subject’ means an individual. ‘Access’ is the statutory right that an individual has to obtain a copy of the information. In the immigration context, a Subject Access Request allows an individual to access their immigration record held by the Home Office.
What is a Fast Track Subject Access Request?
The Fast Track Subject Access Request is free pilot service that is available to all individuals enabling them to request the following information from the Home Office:
- IT records;
- Entry clearance records; and
- Landing cards information.
Why make a Fast Track Subject Access Request?
Under the Fast Track Subject Access Request pilot, the Home Office will disclose copies of any available landing cards that it holds electronically dated within the last 10 years. A landing card is generated when entering the UK via a port on a temporary visa. Therefore, a Fast Track Subject Access Request could be made by an individual who is applying for indefinite leave to remain or naturalisation and needs to prove their travel history in order to satisfy a residency requirement.
An application can also be made under the Fast Track Subject Access Request pilot for disclosure of entry clearance records, including records of any interviews conducted as part of the visa application process. The Fast Track Subject Access Request procedure could therefore be used, for example, by a Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) visa applicant who wishes to obtain a copy of the record of their genuine entrepreneur interview.
How to make a Fast Track Application?
All Fast Track Subject Access Requests must be submitted via UKVI’s ‘Application for fast track records only’ form. Applicants are required to print the form, complete all relevant sections, provide a signature and photo ID and then post the form to the address mentioned in the guidance notes on the last page of the form. If photo ID is not provided then the request may be rejected.
Benefits of the Fast Track Subject Access Request Pilot
Aside from the fact that the Fast Track Subject Access Request Pilot is a free service, applicants should receive a quicker and more efficient service, with a reply in 20 days instead of the standard 40 days for a normal Subject Access Request.
Contact Us
For professional advice and assistance submitting a Subject Access Request, contact our direct access immigration barristers in London on 0203 617 9173 or via our online enquiry form.
