In response to concerns over illegal working and labour exploitation, the Home Office has announced an expanded enforcement programme for 2025. Immigration compliance officers will increase unannounced workplace visits, supported by new digital data-matching tools to identify potential breaches.
The maximum civil penalty for employing individuals without the legal right to work in the UK has now doubled, with fines reaching up to £60,000 per illegal worker. Repeat offenders may face criminal prosecution, director disqualification, and potential licence revocation for sponsor licence holders.
Sectors Under the Spotlight
Industries that traditionally rely on a high proportion of migrant labour are expected to be a key focus, including:
- Hospitality & Catering – pubs, restaurants, and hotels.
- Construction – contractors, subcontractors, and agencies.
- Healthcare & Social Care – care homes and nursing agencies.
- Agriculture – seasonal and casual labour providers.
Key Risk Factors for Employers
- Failing to carry out the correct Right to Work checks on all staff.
- Incomplete or outdated employee records.
- Relying on expired visas or incorrect documentation.
- Lack of compliance training for HR and hiring managers.
Recommended Actions for 2025
To reduce the risk of enforcement action, employers should:
- Audit Current Staff Files – Ensure all Right to Work documents are present, valid, and correctly recorded.
- Train HR & Recruitment Teams – Keep them updated on the latest immigration rules and verification methods.
- Strengthen Record-Keeping – Maintain accurate copies of all documentation and inspection logs.
- Review Sponsor Licence Compliance – For businesses with a sponsorship licence, check reporting and record-keeping obligations are met.
Expert Commentary
“With the government taking a harder line on illegal employment, businesses cannot afford to be complacent. A proactive compliance strategy is no longer optional — it’s essential to protect both your business and reputation.”
— RNW Solicitors Immigration Team
How RNW Solicitors Can Help
We provide tailored compliance audits, training programmes, and legal guidance to help UK employers meet their immigration obligations with confidence. Our experts work closely with businesses to prevent costly penalties and operational disruption.
📞 Contact us today to arrange a compliance review and safeguard your business from 2025’s heightened enforcement measures.
