Facial Age Estimation in the UK Asylum System: Strengthening Age Assessments While Safeguarding Children
The Home Office has announced plans to explore the use of Facial Age Estimation (FAE) technology as part of the UK’s age assessment process for asylum seekers. While the technology is not expected to be operational until 2027, following testing throughout 2026, its proposed introduction represents a significant development in how age-disputed asylum cases may be handled at the UK border.