Government cracks down on illegal migrants using UK bank accounts
Data sharing kicks off today
The government has launched a new crackdown, sharing data with banks and building societies to block illegal migrants from accessing financial services starting today.
Stopping unlawful access to banking
Illegal migrants often exploit bank accounts to secure credit and work under the radar. Restricting access to current accounts cuts off their ability to profit and embed themselves in UK society.
This move aims to make it much harder for those here unlawfully to get accounts or credit. The Home Office will share details of disqualified individuals through an anti-fraud organisation. Banks will then cross-check current account holders against this list.
Who is protected from action?
- Those with ongoing immigration applications or appeals
- Anyone granted legal leave to remain in the UK
The Home Office will keep discretion over who gets disqualified and what data is shared.
Account closures and customer rights
Accounts will only be closed after a final Home Office check confirms the person is staying without permission.
If a bank refuses or shuts down an account, the customer will be informed with clear reasons, details on contacting the Home Office if they think it’s an error, and guidance on next steps.
