UK Government has announced a major clampdown on fake immigration advisers. These individuals have been exploiting vulnerable people for profit. Under new proposals from the Home Office, the Immigration Advice Authority (IAA) will gain new powers to seize and recover illicit earnings from unlawful immigration advice.
The measures, introduced under the Proceeds of Crime Act, aim to stop offenders from keeping illegal profits. Recovered funds will support frontline policing and border security. This will help dismantle criminal networks that exploit the immigration system.
New Powers to Trace, Freeze and Reclaim Dirty Money
For the first time, the IAA will be able to trace, freeze and confiscate assets from individuals found to be operating illegally as immigration advisers without the need for police involvement. The move is designed to speed up enforcement and enable the authority to act independently when pursuing offenders.
Rogue advisers often charge thousands of pounds for fraudulent or substandard immigration services. In one shocking case, a single bogus adviser made over half a million pounds, while another group of three pocketed more than £3 million by targeting desperate migrants online.
Officials hope the expanded powers will enable the IAA to move further and faster in recovering such criminal profits.
Dirty Money Funding Border Security
The Government has confirmed that seized funds will be redirected towards efforts to tackle organised immigration crime. This includes funding initiatives such as the Multi-Agency Cash Cell. The specialist border unit brings together law enforcement agencies to track and disrupt the flow of criminal finance entering the UK.
By turning the proceeds of crime against those who fuel it, the policy represents a decisive shift in how illicit funds are handled. “We’re stripping criminals of their dirty money and using it to strengthen our borders and keep our streets safe,” said Security Minister Dan Jarvis. “Rogue immigration advisers exploiting our system will pay the price.”
Part of a Wider Immigration Enforcement Strategy
The announcement is part of the Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill. It introduces fines of up to £15,000 for those who impersonate qualified immigration lawyers.
The Government said the reforms will leave no hiding place for those exploiting the system. They will also protect vulnerable migrants seeking legitimate help.
Alongside legislative changes, operational enforcement has intensified. So far, over 35,000 people with no legal right to remain in the UK have been returned. The UK continues to work with French authorities to increase the return of illegal migrants.
Consultation and Implementation
The proposed powers are subject to a public consultation, which will run until the end of the year. Following the consultation period, the Government is expected to implement the new framework early next year.
A Message of Deterrence
The extension of confiscation powers to the IAA marks a significant evolution in the regulation of immigration advice. By directly targeting the profits of criminal activity, the Government aims to deter rogue operators and reinforce confidence in the UK’s immigration services.
The message from ministers is clear, those who cheat the system for personal gain will face financial ruin, and their money will be used to protect the borders they sought to abuse.
At Morgan Smith Immigration, we are dedicated to providing our clients with honest, regulated and expert immigration advice. If you are uncertain about your immigration status or have been affected by unregulated advisers, speak to our qualified team today. Contact us to arrange a confidential consultation and ensure your case is handled with professionalism and care. For any enquiries or assistance, call us at 0203 959 3335 or email [email protected].
