> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://avid-detention.gitbook.io/avid-handbook/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://avid-detention.gitbook.io/avid-handbook/getting-out-of-detention/immigration-bail-overview.md). # Immigration Bail Overview Bail is the temporary release of a person who would otherwise be in detention, usually with conditions attached to that release. Immigration bail in its current form can be viewed as a mechanism for enabling release from administrative detention with conditions attached, designed to ensure contact with the immigration authorities. Anyone in detention can apply for bail. Legal aid is available for bail applications (read more on [What is legal aid and what does it cover?](/avid-handbook/legal-advice-and-representation/legal-advice-and-representation/what-is-legal-aid-and-what-does-it-cover.md)). This is provided by contracted firms through the [The Legal Aid Agency Detained Duty Advice Scheme (DDAS) in IRCs](/avid-handbook/legal-advice-and-representation/legal-advice-and-representation/the-legal-aid-agency-detained-duty-advice-scheme-ddas-in-ircs.md). Two routes exist: * Secretary of state bail: Bail is granted by the Home Office, namely an immigration officer or by a civil servant acting on behalf of the Secretary of State (without a hearing, can apply anytime); * First-tier Tribunal bail: by an immigration judge of the First-tier Tribunal (Immigration and Asylum Chamber) (with a hearing, can apply after 8 days since arrival to the UK). The High Court can also grant bail as a remedy in an application for Judicial Review. {% hint style="success" %} **Suggested Reading** Visit our website to read [AVID's policy note](https://www.aviddetention.org.uk/article/immigration-bail-detention-and-access-to-justice---evidence-resources) (02/2026) on current trends impacting immigration bail. {% endhint %} --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com. ## Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter, and the optional `goal` query parameter: ``` GET https://avid-detention.gitbook.io/avid-handbook/getting-out-of-detention/immigration-bail-overview.md?ask=&goal= ``` `ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. `goal` is optional and describes the broader end goal you are ultimately trying to accomplish on behalf of the user. GitBook uses it to tailor the answer towards what is most useful for that goal. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.