The UK Government is expanding its crackdown on illegal migration by introducing new powers to seize criminal profits from people offering unlawful immigration advice. This is done to secure the country’s borders and target those who abuse the immigration system.
In a statement issued by the Home Office on October 22nd, 2025, the government confirmed that powers under the Proceeds of Crime Act will be extended to the Immigration Advice Authority (IAA), allowing it to trace, freeze and recover earnings made by unregulated and fraudulent immigration advisers.
New Powers to Strip Criminals of Illicit Immigration Profits
The new powers, as revealed, will allow the IAA to act against individuals posing as immigration lawyers or advisers, who often charge large sums of money for illegal or poor-quality advice. Until now, such operations required police involvement. But under the proposed changes, the IAA will be able to act independently to recover proceeds of crime linked to immigration fraud.
The Home Office says these actions support the government’s commitment to “do whatever it takes to secure our borders” and send a clear message that illegal migration and those who profit from it will not be tolerated.
Migrants Often Targeted by Illegal Advisers
According to the department, fake immigration advisers often target foreign nationals who are unfamiliar with the UK legal system. These individuals can be charged thousands of pounds for false promises about visa applications, asylum claims or deportation appeals.
In one example, a single bogus adviser earned over £500,000 by offering unauthorised immigration services. In another case, three individuals illegally advising migrants made over £3 million.
The new powers are intended not only to punish offenders but also to prevent migrants from being exploited through false or misleading legal advice.
Seized Funds to Support Border and Police Operations
Money recovered under these new powers will be redirected into frontline policing and border enforcement. This includes investment in the Multi-Agency Cash Cell, a unit that coordinates between government departments and law enforcement to disrupt the flow of criminal funds into and out of the UK.
The Home Office stated that criminals using the immigration system for financial gain will see their earnings reinvested to strengthen border security.
Further Measures Under Immigration Bill
The new enforcement powers will be subject to public consultation until the end of the year. They come alongside wider provisions in the Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill, which proposes fines of up to £15,000 for those caught posing as immigration lawyers.
The legislation supports ongoing government efforts to remove those with no legal right to remain in the UK. Over 35,000 such individuals have been returned so far. The UK is also working with French authorities to increase the return of migrants intercepted attempting to cross the Channel.
Security Minister Dan Jarvis said, “Rogue immigration advisers exploiting our system will pay the price. By backing the Immigration Advice Authority with tough new powers, we’re stripping criminals of their dirty money and using it to strengthen our borders and keep our streets safe.”
The government reiterated that it makes no apologies for taking strong action against illegal migration and those who enable it.
