The longer an overstay continues, the more of daily life it touches. Many of these consequences begin from the first day, not after any particular threshold.
Work
If you have no permission to be in the UK, you have no right to work. Working without permission can be a criminal offence, and employers who knowingly employ people without the right to work can face large civil penalties and prosecution. It can also damage a later application.
Housing
Landlords in England must check that tenants have a right to rent, and can face penalties for letting to people who do not. Overstayers are generally unable to rent privately and risk eviction or homelessness. The rules differ in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, so check local guidance.
Healthcare
The NHS charges people who are not ordinarily resident for some services, which can include overstayers. Urgent and immediately necessary treatment is not withheld because of charging, but you can be billed afterwards, and unpaid NHS debts can be considered in later applications. Ask Citizens Advice about what you must pay and what is exempt.
Banking and driving
Banks must check the immigration status of account holders and can close accounts. A driving licence can be revoked or refused where you are not lawfully resident.
Criminal liability
Under section 24 of the Immigration Act 1971, knowingly remaining beyond the time allowed is an offence punishable by a fine or up to six months in prison. Prosecutions for overstaying alone are uncommon, but the offence exists, and other offences, such as working illegally or using false documents, are treated more seriously.
Future applications and other countries
- Most UK applications ask about previous breaches, and an overstay can lead to refusal under the ban rules. See re-entry bans.
- Many other countries ask on visa forms whether you have ever overstayed or been refused entry, and you must answer truthfully.
- A false answer is usually far more damaging than an honest account of a past overstay.
What reduces the damage
- Act quickly. Many of the rules change at 14 and 30 days.
- Apply or leave in the way that gives you the shortest ban.
- Keep evidence of why it happened. Genuine reasons are weighed.
- Use regulated advice. See what to do if you have overstayed.