Applications for ECF must be made with the CIV ECF1 FORM and should be submitted electronically to contactecc@legalaid.gsi.gov.uk.

As set out above, when making an application for an unaccompanied or separated child to be granted ECF in relation to an immigration (non-asylum matter), any application need not contain detailed representations or evidence.

During this interim period, immigration cases will fall under the Graduated Fixed Fee scheme and will be paid a fixed fee of £234, and have an upper disbursement limit of £400 which can be extended on application of a CW3C form (those with delegated powers may wish to confirm with the LAA that these extend to self-granting extensions in immigration cases).

The experience of practitioners who regularly undertake applications of this nature is that there is a strong likelihood that a properly prepared and evidenced immigration application for a separated or unaccompanied child will escape the fixed fee scheme and then be paid at higher hourly rates.

If providers have queries about availability of additional New Matter Starts (NMS) to undertake immigration work for unaccompanied and separated children they should initially approach their contract manager.