First-tier Tribunal (FTT) asylum appeals from South Asian nationals require country condition reports that address the specific risk profile of the appellant against current conditions in Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, or Bhutan. Expert reports must comply with Immigration Tribunal Practice Direction paragraph 10 and CPR Part 35.
South Asian FTT appeals frequently involve challenges to Home Office CPIN positions, internal relocation arguments (particularly in India), and the application of country guidance (KK [2021] for Sri Lanka Tamil claims). Expert witnesses provide independent analysis that goes beyond generic country information.
Early instruction allows sufficient time for profile-specific research, particularly where post-August 2024 Bangladesh conditions or evolving India Hindutva dynamics require current analysis. Reports should be served in accordance with tribunal directions and hearing timetables.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I instruct a South Asia expert for an FTT appeal?
Instruct as early as possible after grounds of appeal are filed. Allow 2 to 4 weeks for a standard country condition report. Urgent reports (within 72 hours) may be available subject to expert availability. Provide the AIR, RFRL, witness statement, and relevant CPINs with the instruction.