You've been named in a s.44 report. What actually happens next?

A s.44 report records an officer’s opinion that a person is inadmissible. It is not, by itself, a removal order. There is often a window for written submissions before a Minister’s delegate decides whether to refer the matter to the Immigration Division.

If referred, an admissibility hearing follows. Counsel can test the allegation, lead evidence, and seek alternatives to a deportation order where the statute allows. If a removal date is already set, a stay motion may be required in Federal Court.

Bring the report, identity documents, and the chronology. Do not send a confidential brief until a retainer is in place.