London, (Zahid Anwar Mirza) – The UK Home Office has announced strict action against companies and employers who provide jobs to migrants through fraudulent visa sponsorship schemes, as such cases have increased fivefold in recent years.

Officials say that some employers are exploiting immigration rules to obtain cheap labour, which negatively affects both legal migrant workers and local employees. Under the new measures, the worst offenders could face a permanent ban on recruiting workers from overseas, cancellation of their sponsorship licences, heavy fines, and possible legal action.

Shabana Mahmood said the government will take firm action against businesses that abuse the system, adding that the move will help curb illegal working and prevent the exploitation of workers.