Thousands of Uber Eats riders banned over illegal work concerns

Thousands of Uber Eats couriers have been removed from the platform as part of a wider crackdown on illegal immigrant workers in the UK. The move follows increased pressure on delivery companies to strengthen their right-to-work verification processes. Uber confirmed that since April 2023, it has been blocking hundreds of rider accounts each month under stricter employment screening measures agreed with the Home Office.

The company has introduced tougher verification methods, including requiring couriers to provide real-time selfies while working. These measures aim to prevent undocumented workers from abusing the substitution system, which allows self-employed riders to delegate deliveries to a replacement. As Uber Eats refines its operations, it has also been exploring autonomous food delivery through partnerships with companies like Nuro, reflecting broader advancements in the delivery sector.

UK Government and Industry Response

Authorities have expressed concerns over the misuse of the substitution rule in UK employment law, which some have exploited to bypass immigration checks. Former immigration minister Robert Jenrick previously warned that the system was facilitating illegal migration and the exploitation of workers.

Robert Jenrick stated:

"Delivery companies must properly vet their workers and introduce stricter checks on new sign-ups."

In response, major delivery firms, including Uber Eats, Deliveroo, and Just Eat, committed to implementing stronger identity verification policies. These policies came into effect in August 2023 and have since led to the termination of numerous worker accounts.

Enforcement Actions and Wider Implications

Law enforcement has also taken action against illegal working arrangements. In October 2023, a police raid on a caravan site near Bristol uncovered dozens of undocumented delivery workers, resulting in 17 arrests. Thirteen individuals were transferred to immigration detention centres.

Additionally, a private study reported by The Telegraph in January 2024 estimated that up to one million illegal migrants may be working across the UK. The increasing enforcement measures reflect broader efforts to curb undocumented employment in the gig economy.

An Uber Eats spokesperson stated:

"All couriers who use the Uber Eats app, whether it is the account holder or their substitute, must undergo checks to ensure they are over 18 and have a legal right to work in the UK."

The company confirmed that it continuously reviews its policies to ensure compliance with legal requirements.