All employers are required to carry out checks to ensure that their employees are legally eligible to work in the UK -this requires you to see and take copies of documents such as a birth certificate or passport, and where applicable the correct and valid visa to live and work in the UK.

The fine for not doing so if you were found to have illegally employed an immigrant worker (ie one who is not eligible to work in the UK) was £10,00 per employee.

This fine rises to £20,00 per employee with effect from the 6 April.

It really is a simple check to carry out so we advise all employees to do this ASAP if you re not already.