Employers Beware: Fines for Illegal Workers Double

The financial penalties imposed upon employers found with illegal workers have been increased by 50%, from £10,000 from £20,000, under new Home Office measures.

The increased fines will also be imposed upon businesses employing students who have non-working visas.

With these new measures now in place, all employers should ensure they are carrying out statutory right-to-work checks for potential recruits and collate and review the right documentation and evidence. Businesses that aren't already taking these steps, should quickly implement procedures and processes for doing so.

It's not all bad new for employers though, as they no longer have to re-check the right-to-work status of migrant workers every year as said checks have been linked visa expiry dates. Additionally, the time period employers have to make sure all staff members are compliant after a TUPE transfer, has been extended from 28 days to 60 days.

Need Advice on Employing Migrant Workers?

For advice on employing migrant workers and or students from abroad, contact our employment lawyers in Edinburgh by completing our online enquiry form. Alternatively, please call 0131 208 3459.