Huge increase in fines for illegal working or renting

17th August 2023

The Government has announced that fines are to be more than tripled for employers and landlords who allow illegal migrants to work for them or rent their properties.

It is the biggest shake up of civil penalties since 2014. The higher penalties are due to be brought in at the start of 2024.

Employer fines

Civil penalties for employers will be raised up to £45,000 per illegal worker for a first breach from £15,000.

For repeat breaches, penalties will be increased up to £60,000 from £20,000 per illegal worker.

Landlord fines

For landlords, fines will increase from £80 per lodger and £1,000 per occupier for a first breach to up to £5,000 per lodger and £10,000 per occupier.

Repeat breaches will increase to £10,000 per lodger and £20,000 per occupier.

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