Immigration Enforcement activity across the United Kingdom has reached an unprecedented level, with illegal working raids and arrests now at their highest point in British history. Recent figures show a substantial increase in enforcement action, reflecting the government’s stated aim to restore order to the immigration system and remove the incentives that encourage illegal migration.
Significant Rise in Raids and Arrests Nationwide
Since the government came into power, illegal working raids have increased by 77%, with arrests rising by 83% between July 2024 and the end of December 2025. During this period, more than 17,400 raids were carried out across the UK, leading to over 12,300 arrests.
Enforcement activity has focused on sectors where illegal working is most prevalent, including nail bars, car washes, barber shops, takeaway businesses, restaurants, construction sites and distribution warehouses. These operations are aimed at tackling the black economy and preventing businesses from undercutting law-abiding employers.
Increased Enforcement in Wales
Wales has experienced a particularly sharp rise in Immigration Enforcement activity. In 2025, officers carried out 1,320 raids, resulting in 649 arrests. This represents a 103% increase in raids and an 85% increase in arrests compared with 2024.
Enforcement visits across Wales have included targeted operations at packaging and distribution warehouses, barber shops and commercial construction sites. These visits resulted in multiple arrests, with several individuals detained for removal from the UK or agreeing to leave voluntarily.
Funding Boost Driving Enforcement Activity
The surge in raids and arrests has been supported by a £5 million funding boost provided last year to Immigration Enforcement. This additional funding has enabled teams to expand operations, increase site visits and pursue illegal working criminality more effectively.
As part of operational improvements, all Immigration Enforcement teams across the UK are now equipped with body worn video technology. Following the launch in September last year, this capability is expected to strengthen evidence gathering, support prosecutions and further bolster arrest outcomes.
Government Strategy to Remove the Incentive of Illegal Working
The crackdown on illegal working forms part of the government’s wider strategy to restore control of the immigration system. Alongside enforcement activity, more than 50,000 illegal migrants have been removed and deported, representing a 23% increase under the current government.
The Home Secretary has also announced sweeping reforms designed to make the UK a less attractive destination for illegal migrants and to streamline the removal and deportation of individuals with no right to be in the country.
Expansion of Right to Work Checks
Through the Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Act, the government is expanding right to work checks to cover the gig economy, as well as casual, subcontracted and temporary workers. This aims to close existing loopholes and ensure there is no hiding place for illegal working.
In addition, the government has confirmed plans to introduce mandatory digital identification to prove the right to work by the end of the current Parliament. This system is intended to create a simpler and more consistent process for employers while making it harder for illegal migrants to access employment.
Tackling Organised Immigration Crime
Enforcement efforts are being supported by the Organised Immigration Crime Domestic Taskforce, which brings together partners including the National Crime Agency, National Police Chiefs Council, Border Security Command and Immigration Enforcement.
Over the past 12 months, there has been a 33% increase in disruptions linked to migrant smuggling, with nearly 4,000 disruptions recorded since July 2024. This work is complemented by a landmark agreement with France, under which individuals arriving in the UK on small boats are now being returned.
Looking Ahead
The government has made clear that enforcement activity will continue into 2026, with a sustained focus on illegal working, employer compliance and border security. For employers, the message is clear: failure to carry out proper right to work checks carries increasing risk. For individuals without permission to work in the UK, enforcement activity continues to intensify, leaving fewer opportunities to remain undetected.
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