UK Publishes Updates to Civil Penalty Fines

The UK government has published updates to its Code of Practices for the Right to Work Scheme and the Right to Rent Scheme which come into force on February 13, 2024. The new rules include the previously announced increase to civil penalty fines for employers and landlords who employ or let property to foreign nationals who do not have the right to work or rent in the UK.

From February 13, 2024:

  • The civil penalty for employers will increase from £15,000 to a maximum £45,000 per illegal worker for a first breach of the Scheme, and from £20,000 to a maximum £60,000 per illegal worker for repeat breaches.
  • For landlords, the civil penalty for a first breach will increase from £80 per lodger and £1,000 per occupier, to up to £5,000 per lodger and £10,000 per occupier. Repeat breaches will increase from £500 per lodger and £3,000 per occupier to £10,000 and £20,000 respectively.
Erickson Insights and Analysis

Erickson Immigration Group will continue to monitor developments and share updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or case-specific questions.