UK Government Targets Businesses Ignoring Right to Work Checks

Focus on Workplaces Ignoring Right to Work Checks

There has been a sharp rise in the number of people with no right to be in the UK being removed, reveals the Home Office.

Almost 19,000 failed asylum seekers and others without a valid immigration status have been deported between 5th July 2024 and the end of January 2025 as the government continues to increase enforcement action.

In particular, the immigration enforcement teams have focused on workplaces that are knowingly employing those without the correct documentation, with a 48 per cent rise in visits regarding illegal working.

This has been accompanied by an increase in the number of civil penalty notices issued to employers who could face a fine of up to £60,000 per worker if found liable. In many cases, workers were found to be living in unsuitable accommodation, working long hours and receiving below minimum wage salaries.

Immigration Rules Must Be “Respected”

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper explained: “The immigration rules must be respected and enforced. For far too long, employers have been able to take on and exploit illegal migrants and too many people have been able to arrive and work illegally with no enforcement action ever taken.

“Not only does this create a dangerous draw for people to risk their lives by crossing the Channel in a small boat, but it results in the abuse of vulnerable people, the immigration system and our economy.”  

Employers are required to carry out Right to Work checks to ensure they only hire those who are legally allowed to work in the UK.

This can be done manually by requesting to see the potential employee’s passport or other acceptable documents. Alternatively, the checks can be digitally via the Home Office by using the person’s share code. For British and Irish nationals, digital checks can be done via Identity Service Providers (IDSPs).

How Can an IAS Immigration Lawyer Help Your Business?

For more information on Right to Work checks and ensuring your business is compliant with UK immigration and employment reach out to IAS.

Our experienced team can help support your recruitment plans and work with your HR department to ensure you are complying with immigration and employment law. We also offer mock compliance audits to help identify potential issues ahead of any Home Office or enforcement visits.

Contact us today on +44 (0)333 414 9244 to find out more about our corporate services and how we can help your business.