Immigration tribunal proposed to hear appeals

The Ministry of Immigration has proposed the establishment of a dedicated Immigration Tribunal to handle appeals against immigration decisions, including deportation orders, detention cases and other administrative actions.

Ministry permanent secretary Aliki Vuli Salusalu told the Constitution Review Commission in Suva yesterday that the proposed tribunal would improve transparency, accountability and procedural fairness within the immigration system.

He said the tribunal would provide individuals with a structured legal pathway to challenge immigration decisions, while ensuring enforcement agencies continue to operate efficiently and effectively.

Mr Salusalu said the creation of the tribunal would also strengthen public confidence in immigration processes by ensuring decisions were independently reviewed and consistent with legal standards.

He added that the reform would balance the need for strong border enforcement with fair administrative oversight, particularly in cases involving the deportation and detention of non‑citizens.

Mr Salusalu said such a mechanism would also reduce pressure on existing administrative systems and improve the overall efficiency of immigration operations.