The United Kingdom has announced strict enforcement measures against employers who provide jobs through fraudulent visa sponsorship schemes, according to British media reports.
Authorities say employers who violate immigration laws could face a ban on recruiting workers from overseas. The action comes after reports that cases involving fake visa sponsorship have increased fivefold.
Officials are tightening oversight as part of broader efforts to address immigration rule violations and prevent misuse of the sponsorship system.
In a separate development, new rules affecting dual nationals will take effect on Wednesday, February 25.
Under the new regulations, individuals who hold dual citizenship but do not possess a British passport may be denied entry into the United Kingdom. Media reports state that dual nationals must obtain either a visa, a British passport, or a Certificate of Entitlement in order to enter the country.
Those without a British passport will also be required to secure either an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) or a Certificate of Entitlement before traveling.
Travelers entering the UK through an ETA will be permitted to stay for up to six months for tourism or to visit family members.
The new measures signal increased immigration enforcement as authorities respond to the reported rise in fraudulent sponsorship cases and implement updated entry requirements for dual citizens.
