As part of a wide ranging review of powers announced recently in the UK Parliament, unscrupulous immigration advisors will have their profits seized. This will be as a result of new powers created by the Proceeds of Crime Act.
Assets can be frozen and illegal earnings clawed back by the Immigration Advice Authority, according to a statement from the Home Office.
What will happen to monies recovered?
The aim is to reinvest the monies recovered into border security and frontline policing to shut down networks of illegal advisors. It will help to fund the Multi Agency Cash Cell, which allies law enforcement and the government, helping disrupt the worrying flow of organised crime cash entering the country.
Individual advisors have been known to accrue seven figure sums as a result of unlawful advice and bogus applications. The new measures mean that the Immigration Advice Authority can find and freeze funds, seize illegal earnings and bring individuals before the courts without having to rely on police support.
How do immigrants find legal advice?
If you are living in the capital and need a London law firm to provide genuine advice, you can search online for reputable firms such as www.forsters.co.uk/.
When will the new powers come into force?
A consultation is to run until the end of 2025, after which the changes will be introduced. As that bill progresses in Parliament, the government intends to increase operations at the border to secure them.
The Immigration Advice Authority can already fine bogus immigration lawyers up to £15,000.
