Hiring Migrant Workers: Make Sure You Know The Law

Businesses face severe penalties if they hire illegal migrant workers, following what the Home Office describes as the biggest immigration shake-up for 40 years, as Chris Maddock explains.

The government has launched a comprehensive programme to reform Britain's immigration controls. Now businesses must source migrant labour through legal means or face severe penalties.

Employers should familiarise themselves with how these changes, under the points-based system and the civil penalty regime will affect recruitment and employment practices.

A points-based system

With effect from 29 February 2008, a points-based system began to operate in the UK. This is intended to enable the UK to control immigration more effectively, tackle abuse and identify the most talented workers.