Illegal working arrests rise sharply across hospitality and licensed premises

Arrests for suspected illegal working have risen sharply over the past two years, according to new Home Office data. Officials report more than 17,000 arrests since July 2024, alongside a record number of immigration enforcement visits.

The figures show a continued increase in arrests made during inspections of UK businesses, including hospitality venues, beauty salons, retail outlets and other licensed premises. Civil penalties issued to employers across these sectors have reached £74m so far this year.

Recent enforcement activity includes:

• 30 May – Ten individuals were arrested for immigration offences at a licensed restaurant on the King’s Road in London.

• 11 June – Raids at two large delivery depots in Newbury and Basingstoke resulted in nine arrests for suspected illegal working and overstaying.

• 23 March – Visits targeting construction sites led to 15 arrests.

The highest arrest totals were recorded in London, the West Midlands and South West England, with London seeing a 32% rise compared with the same period last year.

The Home Office says employers must ensure right‑to‑work checks are carried out for all staff, including those working in hospitality and other licensed environments. From 1 October, businesses found to be hiring illegal workers in the gig economy could face fines of up to £60,000 per worker or potential criminal sanctions.