UK prevention of illegal working

Amounts, thresholds and processing times quoted on this page are from our earlier guide and change often. We confirm the current figures with the authority before you commit to anything.

Prevention of Illegal Working

Illegal working often results in abusive and exploitative behaviour, the mistreatment of illegal migrant workers, tax evasion and illegal housing conditions. It can also undercut legitimate businesses and have an adverse impact on the employment of people who are lawfully in the UK. All employers are expected to comply with the law and ensure their employees have the right to work in the UK by carrying out the correct checks.

Right To Work Involves Three Simple Steps

• Obtain – the employee’s original identity documents.
• Check – the documents are valid with the employee present
• Copy – keep the documents securely. Record the date of the check.

An employer of an illegal worker who has not carried out the correct checks face a penalty of up to£20,000.

It is a criminal offence to knowingly employ an illegal worker – employers can face an unlimited fine and up to two years in prison.