Publication of the information package on Illegal employment of third-country nationals

The European Migration Network (EMN) has released a new study focusing on the illegal employment of third-country nationals (TCNs) in EMN Member Countries between 2017 and 2022. Building on its 2017 report, the study provides an updated overview of legislation, preventive measures, and inspection practices.

Illegal employment remains a high-profile political issue, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and Russia’s war against Ukraine. Common measures include increasing employer penalties, expanding labour inspectorates, and conducting targeted inspections in high-risk sectors such as construction, hospitality, agriculture, and personal services.

The study highlights enhanced cooperation between national authorities and international partners, including initiatives led by the European Labour Authority. It also addresses protection measures for victims of exploitation, offering temporary residence or access to international protection procedures.

The communication package includes the full study, an inform summarising the key findings, and a one-page flash.

The complete material is available on the EMN website .