A fine of €156,000 was imposed on 24 employers for illegally employing migrants, following an investigation by the Aliens and Immigration Service (YAM) conducted between April 25 and May 2.

“A total of 20 cases of illegal employment of foreigners were identified, in which a total of 34 foreigners were employed,” police said.

While all 24 employers are to be brought before court, police clarified that the fines imposed were administrative.

“For cases of illegal employment of foreigners, the relevant legislation provides for a prison sentence of up to five years, or a fine of €20,000, or both,” the authorities added.

Additionally, the employers could face further fines for each illegally employed person, imposed by labour inspection department.

Between 2024 and 2025, police reported that the Immigration Department identified 512 cases involving the illegal employment of foreign nationals. As a result, 499 employers were prosecuted in court, while 799 foreigners were arrested in connection with the offences.

Police said it would “continue its campaigns and inspections in hotel units, buildings and catering establishments to combat illegal employment”.