Illegal working creates significant challenges for both businesses and the wider economy, and employers are expected to comply with the rules set out by the Home Office in order to ensure that they only employ those with a lawful right to work in the UK. 

If an employer is found to be employing someone who does not have valid right to work in the UK (an 'illegal worker'), the Home Office may impose a civil penalty. Currently, the starting point/ maximum amount for a civil penalty is £15,000 for a first breach and £20,000 for any subsequent breach within a three-year period. The Draft Code, which will apply from 22 January 2024, introduces a notable change to the civil penalty amounts, resulting in a tripling of the current figures:   

• First breach: the starting point will increase to £45,000, before reductions are applied.
• Subsequent breach:  the starting point will increase to £60,000, before reductions are applied. 

As in the current Code of Practice, an employer may have the opportunity to pay a reduced civil penalty if they can demonstrate that they have already reported the breach to the Home Office, are actively cooperating with the Home Office and, for first time breaches only, they can show that they have effective right to work checking practices in place. The existing 30% reduction for early payment will also continue to apply (applicable for a first breach penalty only).