UK IMMIGRATION LAW UPDATE
UK Immigration Law Update: Rising UKVI Compliance Visits and How to Stay Ahead
As small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) navigate the complexities of employing a diverse workforce, UK immigration law remains a critical area of focus - especially for businesses sponsoring overseas talent or ensuring right-to-work (RTW) compliance. Recent trends indicate that UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) is increasing its enforcement efforts, with compliance visits becoming more frequent and penalties for non-compliance steeper than ever. Here’s what you need to know - and how Horsfield Menzies can help you avoid costly pitfalls.
UKVI Compliance Visits on the Rise
The Home Office has intensified its scrutiny of businesses holding sponsor licences and those employing migrant workers. In 2022, UKVI conducted over 1,000 enforcement visits targeting illegal working across various sectors. Fast forward to 2024, and the pace has quickened further. Data from the first half of 2024 shows a sharp rise in sponsor licence actions: 833 suspensions and 709 revocations between January and June alone, compared to lower figures in 2023. Additionally, illegal working enforcement visits increased by over 20% from January to October 2024, reflecting a government push to tackle non-compliance.
“Investing in a mock audit with Horsfield Menzies is money well spent. For a fraction of the £60,000 fine you could face for lacking a robust RTW defence, you gain expert insight and the tools to safeguard your business.”
These visits - often unannounced - assess whether businesses are meeting their sponsorship duties, maintaining accurate records, and ensuring all employees have the legal right to work in the UK. With fines for employing illegal workers now at £60,000 per individual for repeat breaches (up from £20,000 as of February 2024), the stakes are high. For SMEs, a single oversight could lead to financial penalties, reputational damage, or even the loss of a sponsor licence, disrupting your ability to hire international talent.
Why Audits Matter Now More Than Ever
The message is clear: proactive compliance is no longer optional - it’s essential. A robust RTW defence, backed by meticulous record-keeping and regular internal checks, is your first line of protection against UKVI enforcement. Conducting an immigration audit can identify gaps in your HR processes, from outdated visa records to incomplete RTW documentation, before they become costly liabilities.
However, self-audits can be daunting for SMEs without dedicated compliance teams. The Immigration Rules and Home Office guidance are complex, and missing a detail could leave you exposed. That’s where expert support comes in.
How Horsfield Menzies Can Help: The Mock UKVI Compliance Audit
At Horsfield Menzies, we understand the pressures SMEs face in staying compliant while running a business. Our tailored mock UKVI compliance audit service is designed to simulate a real Home Office visit, giving you peace of mind and a clear roadmap to compliance. Here’s how it works:
Thorough Assessment: We review your HR systems, employee records, and sponsorship processes to ensure they align with UKVI expectations. This includes checking RTW documents, visa statuses, and sponsor management system (SMS) updates.
Mock Interviews: We prepare your key personnel - such as your Authorising Officer or HR team - for the kinds of questions UKVI officers might ask, building confidence and clarity.
Detailed Report: Post-audit, you’ll receive a comprehensive report highlighting strengths, pinpointing risks, and offering actionable recommendations to address any weaknesses.
Ongoing Support: We don’t just identify issues - we guide you through fixing them, ensuring your business is audit-ready at all times.
Investing in a mock audit with Horsfield Menzies is money well spent. For a fraction of the £60,000 fine you could face for lacking a robust RTW defence, you gain expert insight and the tools to safeguard your business. In an era of heightened enforcement, this proactive step could save you from financial penalties, licence suspensions, and the operational headaches that follow.
Take Action Today
With UKVI compliance visits showing no signs of slowing down in 2025, now is the time to act. Don’t wait for an unannounced knock on the door - let Horsfield Menzies help you stay ahead of the curve. Contact us today to schedule your mock UKVI compliance audit and ensure your SME is fully prepared for whatever the Home Office throws your way.
