Marriage abuse – An operational response Presented by: Steve Fisher Date: 14th May 2013

Context The use of sham marriages by foreign nationals to gain leave to remain or freedom of movement in the United Kingdom and other European countries is one of the biggest threats to immigration control. 1891 S:24 reports from register offices nationally last year We have released the number of S24 reports for 2012 to the LRS a couple of weeks ago on a note we sent out to the registration officers we send out – I will attach the note that it went on for your information.

Approach All enforcement activity is intelligence led. Intelligence generated from register offices and other partners via S:24 reports and referrals. Field Intelligence Officers active across the UK. Gathering intelligence from a number of sources including register offices.

Options Invite the Bride and Groom to attend an interview. Conduct a home visit to conduct an interview, test the basis of the relationship. Disrupt the wedding at the register office. Criminal investigation into organised criminality. Interview – message that there is a degree of scrutiny. Case study Home visit – element of surprise. Case study Disruption – highly visible, prospect of identifying organisers, intelligence gathering. Also other innovative approaches – Scotland example. Case study Criminal investigation – sends out a clear message and disrupts organised criminal networks. Case study

Outcomes Prevention of immigration abuse. Disruption and prosecution of organised crime groups. Intelligence gathering to prevent further abuse and assist intervention and inform policy. Integrity of marriage process strengthened.