Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has announced a record-breaking January for illegal working enforcement activity, as the government intensifies its efforts to combat immigration system abuse under its Plan for Change.
The surge in enforcement activity forms a key part of the government’s broader initiative to restore order to the UK immigration system by identifying, disrupting, and tackling irregular migration nationwide.
Driven by a push to increase enforcement staff, January witnessed the highest levels of enforcement activity in over half a decade.
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper stated:
“The immigration rules must be respected and enforced. For far too long, employers have been able to exploit illegal migrants, and too many people have been able to work illegally with no enforcement action taken.
Not only does this create a dangerous draw for people to risk their lives crossing the Channel in small boats, but it also results in the exploitation of vulnerable individuals, abuse of the immigration system, and harm to our economy.
That’s why, as part of our Plan for Change, we are ramping up enforcement to record levels alongside tough new legislation to dismantle the criminal gangs that undermine our border security.”
Illegal Working Enforcement in Numbers
In January alone, Immigration Enforcement teams targeted 828 premises, such as nail bars, convenience stores, restaurants, and car washes – a 48% increase compared to January the previous year. Arrests also surged by 73%, rising to 609 from 352 in the same period.
From 5 July last year to 31 January, illegal working visits and arrests increased by around 38% compared to the same period the year before. During this timeframe, the Home Office issued 1,090 civil penalty notices, with employers facing fines of up to £60,000 per illegal worker.
Reminder for Employers
The latest enforcement drive underscores the importance of compliance for employers. The Home Office is taking a firm stance against those who fail to adhere to immigration rules.
Employers must carry out compliant right-to-work checks as wpart of their legal responsibilities under UK Immigration Rules. Failing to comply with these obligations can result in severe penalties.
Additionally, organisations holding a Home Office sponsor licence must understand and fulfil their sponsorship duties when managing a migrant workforce.
How Ison Harrison Solicitors Can Help
Ison Harrison Solicitors can assist businesses with all aspects of immigration and sponsorship compliance. Our expert team is here to guide you through your legal responsibilities, ensuring your business remains compliant and avoids costly penalties.
For tailored advice on right-to-work checks, sponsorship duties, or broader immigration matters, please contact the Immigration for Businesses team on 0113 2845120 or email mail@isonharrison.co.uk today.
