Surge in Illegal Working Arrests / £5m Funding

09 Feb 2026 | Visalogic

UK Illegal Working Enforcement Reaches Record Highs

Illegal working enforcement has reached the highest level in British history, driven by intensified action from Home Office Immigration Enforcement teams.

What employers need to know

This surge in arrests follows a £5m funding boost and forms part of wider reforms to restore order to the immigration system and reduce the illegal employment market.

Raids are up 77% and arrests up 83% since this government came into power, with more than 17,400 visits to businesses and over 12,300 arrests made.

Repercussions of illegal working can include

  • Up to 5 years imprisonment for knowingly sponsoring an illegal worker.
  • Fines up to £60,000 per illegal worker for businesses.
  • Business premises being closed.
  • Company Directors disqualified.
  • Businesses losing the ability to sponsor future migrants.
  • Earnings seized from the illegal worker’s employment.

How Visalogic can help

To ensure your business remains UKVI compliant, ensure all HR protocols are followed and all appropriate immigration records are consistent with the relevant requirements.

Visalogic supports employers with robust HR compliance solutions, including compliance audits to help businesses operate confidently whilst meeting their legal obligations.

Get in touch with a member of the team today to see how we may assist your company’s immigration needs.

Call 0800 772 0471 or email [email protected].