The UK just made “they’re not my employee” a riskier defense
For companies that rely on contractors, agencies, or platform workers instead of direct employees, "that person isn't actually my employee" has long been a workable legal shield. As of October 1, 2026, in the United Kingdom, it is a much weaker one. What changed The UK's Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Act 2025 widens the legal definition of "employer" for right-to-work purposes well beyond direct contracts of employment. Liability can now arise further up a contracting chain, on online matching platforms, and in arrangements where a contract allows a worker to send a substitute. Businesses that contractually supply labor or services onward are the main focus; a client simply buying work for its own internal operations is generally not in scope, though direct-hire duties still apply. The penalties are significant:…
