How long do extradition proceedings typically take from arrest to final decision?

By Dr. Anatoliy Yarovyi — Senior Partner

Updated: 26 Oct 2026

Timeframes vary substantially by jurisdiction and the specific legal frameworks involved. Within the EU, a final decision on executing a European Arrest Warrant should generally be taken within 60 days of arrest, extendable by a further 30 days. The UK no longer operates the European Arrest Warrant since Brexit; arrest warrants from EU states are dealt with under Part 1 of the Extradition Act 2003, and contested cases, particularly those with appeals, can take considerably longer. Given these strict and complex timelines, securing immediate representation from an experienced extradition defence attorney is essential.

Strategic delays through procedural challenges and requests for additional evidence can extend timelines significantly, which may be tactically advantageous depending on circumstances in the requesting state.

If you are navigating international warrants involving British jurisdictions, understanding regional differences is vital. Explore our targeted guides on extradition from USA to UK or extradition from Thailand to UK to evaluate your options and build a proactive defense strategy.