Immigration Law

Appealing UDI Decisions

Key Takeaway

If your application is rejected by UDI, you have the right to appeal within 3 weeks. The appeal is first reviewed by UDI, and if upheld, forwarded to UNE (Immigration Appeals Board). You may be entitled to free legal aid.

The Appeals Process

1

Receive the negative decision

UDI sends you a written decision explaining why your application was rejected and how to appeal.

2

File an appeal within 3 weeks

You must submit your appeal to UDI within 3 weeks (forvaltningsloven § 29). The deadline is calculated from when you received the decision.

3

UDI reviews the appeal

UDI first checks if they should change their own decision. If not, they forward the case to UNE.

4

UNE processes the appeal

UNE is an independent body. They may decide based on documents alone, or invite you to a meeting (nemndmøte).

5

Court as last resort

If UNE also rejects your appeal, you can take the case to court within 6 months. Legal aid may cover this.

Free Legal Aid

You may be entitled to free legal assistance:

  • Asylum cases: free lawyer provided by UDI for negative decisions in the first instance
  • UNE appeals: free legal aid for asylum cases (Immigration Act § 92)
  • Other immigration cases: means-tested free legal aid may be available (Legal Aid Act)
  • NOAS provides free general advice for asylum seekers
  • Juss-Buss and Jusshjelpa offer free legal advice

Important: Deadline

The 3-week appeal deadline is strict. If you miss it, your right to appeal is normally lost. If you need more time, you can request an extension, but this must be done before the deadline expires. Being outside Norway does not automatically extend the deadline.

What to Include in Your Appeal

  • Your full name, date of birth, and DUF number (if you have one)
  • Reference to the specific decision you are appealing
  • Explanation of why you believe the decision is wrong
  • New evidence or information that UDI did not consider
  • Updated country information if relevant
  • Medical documentation if applicable

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⚠️ This is general information based on Norwegian law – not legal advice. Contact NOAS, a lawyer, or a free legal aid center for your specific case.