The Home Office says Immigration Enforcement raids and arrests linked to illegal working have reached the highest level in UK history. For employers, this is a clear sign that compliance is being scrutinised more closely and that businesses should review their right to work processes.
In this article, we set out the key figures behind the rise in enforcement activity, what the government says it’s targeting and why this matters for employers. We also explain how to arrange a free 30 minute consultation with an immigration solicitor if you need advice.
What the latest figures show
The Home Office reports that the number of raids has increased by 77 percent, with arrests up by 83 percent, covering the period from July 2024 to the end of December 2025.
Across the UK, the Home Office states that more than 17,400 raids were carried out, leading to more than 12,300 arrests. The press release also highlights that visits targeted businesses such as nail bars, car washes, barbers and takeaway shops.
The Home Office also points to regional figures. In Northern Ireland, it reports 187 raids in 2025 and 234 arrests, describing this as a 76 percent and 169 percent rise respectively compared with 2024.
The announcement links this rise in activity to a 5 million pound funding boost for Immigration Enforcement, intended to support increased enforcement against illegal working.
Why the government says enforcement is increasing
The Home Office frames the crackdown as part of its wider approach to reduce illegal working and to target those it describes as exploiting the system. It also connects this activity to broader immigration reforms and enforcement priorities.
It also includes a statement from the Home Secretary, describing the aim of increasing enforcement activity and reducing illegal working in the black economy.
What happens during an Immigration Enforcement raid
Raids linked to illegal working typically involve unannounced visits to business premises. Immigration officers may ask to speak to the person in charge, request access to employment records and carry out checks on individuals working on site. Where officers suspect someone doesn’t have the right to work, they may detain that person for further investigation.
These visits can be disruptive. Even where a business believes it’s compliant, a raid can lead to immediate operational disruption, follow-up requests for documents and, in some cases, interviews under caution if serious breaches are suspected.
Legal risks for employers
The main risk for employers is liability for illegal working. The Home Office can take enforcement action where a business employs someone who doesn’t have the right to work or where the correct right to work checks haven’t been carried out properly.
There is also a wider risk profile. Businesses can face reputational damage, loss of staff at short notice and further scrutiny if the Home Office believes there are systemic problems in recruitment or record keeping.
For sponsor licence holders, the stakes can be even higher. Immigration compliance issues can trigger additional Home Office attention on HR systems and reporting duties.
Related: Fines for Employing Illegal Workers in the UK
How to reduce risk now
The best protection is to ensure your right to work process is consistent, documented and followed for every hire. This includes checking status before employment begins and keeping clear records of what was checked, when it was checked and who carried out the check.
You should also ensure that staff responsible for recruitment understand the process and don’t make informal decisions based on assumptions about nationality or documents. Where repeat checks are required, diarise them and carry them out on time.
If you use contractors or outsourced labour, consider how you verify that right to work checks are being completed properly. Many businesses assume a third party has handled checks, only to find this isn’t the case when enforcement action follows.
What to do if Immigration Enforcement contacts or visits your business
If officers attend your premises, keep the response calm and controlled. Identify a single point of contact internally, take notes of what is requested and provided and keep copies of any documents shared.
If you’re unsure about your legal position, it’s sensible to seek legal advice quickly, particularly before making statements or agreeing to provide additional information beyond what is required.
Speak to an immigration solicitor about employer compliance
If Immigration Enforcement activity is increasing, reviewing your compliance now can reduce risk later. If you need an immigration solicitor to advise on right to work checks, sponsor licence compliance or responding to enforcement concerns, Osbourne Pinner Solicitors can guide you through your next steps with clear, practical advice.
Please note that this article is solely for informational purposes. It’s not a substitute for legal advice. We encourage readers to contact Osbourne Pinner for case specific guidance.
We offer a free 30 minute consultation to discuss your situation. You can speak with us via video call or visit our offices in Harrow, Canary Wharf, Piccadilly Circus or Manchester. To arrange your consultation, call 0203 983 5080, email [email protected] or complete the form below.
