Time running out to register non-EU migrant workers, says PwC

Northern Ireland employers have been warned that time is running out to register their non-EU migrant workers.

An estimated 20,000 UK companies have to register under tough new rules to regulate the employment of non-EU workers.

But according to business advisors, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP fewer than 20 firms from across the UK have actually registered for the sponsorship licenses that will let them employ non-EU labour.

And with the October 2008 registration deadline looming,Rebecca McCourt from PwC says many employers are facing hefty fines for non-compliance:

"On 29 February, government announced that businesses in GB and Northern Ireland employing, or intending to employ, workers from outside the EU, must get a licence.

“Once a licence is granted, companies will then be added to a register of sponsors and will be able to issue certificates of sponsorship.

“At the time, the Department of Employment and Learning (DEL) said that approval by the Border and Immigration Agency (BIA) would be essential for Northern Ireland companies hoping to bring in skilled workers.

“Companies need to act now to ensure they are registered to recruit from overseas, or face possible hefty fines as well as not being able to recruit or retain non-EU talent.”

Government has opted for an Australian-style immigration system that awards points to match the skills of prospective migrant workers. This is intended to ensure that only those with skills the UK needs can come.

The new rules require companies to apply for a licence to employ non-European economic area (EEA) migrant workers under the points based system (PBS), and agree to meet a number of new sponsorship duties.

In the toughest shake-up of immigration rules for 30 years, rogue employers who fail to register face civil penalties of up to £10,000 for each illegal worker they employ. Those found to have knowingly hired illegal workers could incur an unlimited fine and face imprisonment.

Rebecca McCourt added:

“A key part of the registration process is around companies proving that their HR systems are compliant according to a set of strict guidelines. 

“Some companies reviewing the requirements are finding that appointing external advisors represents a robust challenge to ensure that their HR systems receive a thorough health check. 

“However, this process takes time, the clock is ticking, and thousands of companies need to move faster.”

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Email: John Compton
Tel: +44 (0)28 9024 5454