The UK government has announced plans to significantly increase civil penalties for employers who hire illegal migrants, aiming to discourage irregular migration. From 2024 (no exact date provided), penalties for employers will more than triple, reaching up to £45,000 for a first breach and up to £60,000 for repeat breaches. This move is part of a broader effort to address irregular migration, with the government hoping that higher fines will deter both migrants and people smugglers.
The Home Office has also ramped up its immigration enforcement activities, resulting in increased arrests this year compared to last year.
As the stricter penalties are set to take effect in 2024, employers should ensure they are well-versed in the legal requirements and have completed the necessary checks on their current employees to avoid potential penalties.
More information on conducting right to work checks can be found here.
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