The Home Office will soon deploy artificial intelligence technology to assist in assessing the ages of asylum seekers who claim to be children. The system, developed by Akhter Computers of Harlow, Essex, was awarded a £322,000 contract to provide an AI tool capable of estimating age based on facial features.

This technology aims to support immigration officers in determining whether individuals are under 18, a classification that significantly influences asylum processing and entitlements. According to the Home Office, early testing has demonstrated promising accuracy and performance.

Currently, when the age of an asylum claimant is disputed, officers must rely on their judgment, a process that has faced criticism. A report published last year highlighted that some staff members lacked sufficient training to make these assessments effectively.

Border Security Minister Alex Norris emphasized the rationale behind the initiative, stating that some adult migrants have exploited false age claims to access benefits intended for vulnerable children. He described the introduction of AI as a measure to prevent such misuse and ensure that resources are directed to those most in need.

The integration of AI technology into age assessment marks a significant development in the Home Office’s approach to asylum claims, reflecting broader efforts to incorporate digital solutions into immigration control. However, concerns may remain regarding the reliability of AI-based judgments and their impact on individuals’ rights, though official sources have underscored the system’s potential to enhance fairness and accuracy in the process.