Illegal working fines hit record high
Government figures show that fines for businesses employing illegal workers across the UK reached a record high in the second quarter of 2024.
According to data on the Home Office website, fines rose to £21,485,000, an increase of 165% from £8,120,000 of fines issued in the first quarter of the year.
The large sanction reflects a tripling in the amount businesses can be fined for employing illegal workers introduced in February 2024, when fines rose from £15,000 to £45,000 per illegal worker for a first offence and from £20,000 to £60,000 per worker for repeat violations. This increase, combined with the ongoing focus by the Home Office on preventing employment and exploitation of illegal workers, has led to employers being fined millions of pounds. Home Office data shows that 568 penalties were issued, and the list of employers shows the largest fine to a single employer was £150,000.
Recent news stories have highlighted the further impact that an enforcement visit can have on an organisation, with a London restaurant reportedly closing following a fine and Directors facing disqualification orders.
This significant rise in fines and activity illustrate how diligent employers need to be when employing staff and ensuring that they follow Right to Work guidance carefully. If you’d like to speak to us about how technology could support your Right to Work checks, please get in touch.
Sign up to receive updates
Receive notifications from TrustID direct to your inbox. Simply fill out your email address in the form below.
Want to find out more?
We’d be really happy to chat through your requirements and offer advice on the best service for your business.
Tel: 0118 466 0822 or email us.
Request a callback