The UK Border Agency works together with employers to ensure that illegal workers cannot obtain work in the UK. However, where employers are found to be making use of illegal labour, the UK Border Agency takes tough action – an employer can be fined up to £10,000 per illegal migrant worker.
Whether a person can work in the UK, the type of work they are able to do and for how long will depend on their immigration status. The Government has placed working restrictions on nationals from certain countries. As an employer, it is in your interest to be aware of any conditions that may affect your lawful employment of a migrant worker.
The law is in place for three key reasons:
- To make it difficult for people who overstay their permission to be in the UK or remain in employment in breach of the UK’s immigration laws
- To help employers to ensure they employ people who are legally permitted to work in the UK
- To assist the Government to tackle illegal working by helping the UK Border Agency take appropriate action against employers who use illegal labour.
Harbour HR will discuss your employment needs and assess the appropriate route to take to ensure you are able to employ your candidate, within the rules and regulations set out by the Home Office, as quickly as possible.
