Companies face 60,000 fines under plans to extend right-to-work checks to freelancers

"UK companies could be hit with fines of up to £60,000 per worker under proposed changes that would require right-to-work checks to be carried out on freelancers and other casual workers, a move that many business owners remain unaware of. Under current rules, employers have been legally required since 2008 to carry out right-to-work checks on employees engaged under traditional employment contracts."

"The proposals could place a significant administrative burden on small businesses, particularly those that rely heavily on flexible or freelance labour. Zoe Williams, founder of supplement brand Aegle, said the changes had not been on her radar. Williams, who is the sole permanent employee at her business - which recorded £1 million in sales this year - relies on freelancers to operate. "It's not something that I have heard of before," she said. "For small businesses anything that is extra admin is always quite challenging.""

Proposed UK rules would extend legal right-to-work checks from traditional employees to freelancers, contractors and other casual workers, potentially exposing companies to fines of up to £60,000 per worker. The consultation linked to the Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill targets sectors such as construction, food delivery and beauty services but could sweep across many industries. Small businesses that depend on flexible labour face increased administrative burdens. Some business owners report unawareness of the proposals. Government framing emphasizes preventing rogue employers hiring illegal workers and encouraging lawful employment. Legal experts note immigration enforcement is a prominent political issue.

Read at Business Matters