Fines issued for illegal hiring as Ministry of VSA steps up enforcement

GREAT BAY--The Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA) has confirmed that fines have been issued to employers found in violation of labor laws, particularly for hiring undocumented workers. The announcement follows an inquiry by 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘗𝘦𝘰𝘱𝘭𝘦𝘴' 𝘛𝘳𝘪𝘣𝘶𝘯𝘦 after Minister Richinel Brug issued a call last week for businesses to comply with legal hiring practices.

“The Ministry has issued fines to several establishments found in violation of labor laws, particularly those employing undocumented workers. We can confirm that fines have ranged from moderate to significant amounts. We recognize that public warnings alone are not enough. That’s why the Ministry is now moving toward stronger enforcement, including increased inspections and the potential for publicizing repeat offenders where legally permissible. Our aim is clear: to create real consequences that deter illegal employment and protect the integrity of our labor market,” the Minister’s Cabinet stated in response to questions.

While the Labor Inspectorate plays a role in gathering evidence and preparing cases, the fines themselves are currently issued through the Prosecutor’s Office.

“At present, the issuance of fines for illegal employment is handled exclusively by the Prosecutor's Office. They determine the fine amounts in accordance with the law. Fines start at XCG 5,000 per violation, but under the applicable legislation, the maximum penalty can reach XCG 100,000. The Inspectorate continues to support case preparation and evidence gathering to facilitate prosecution, while also advocating legislative changes to enable administrative fines to be imposed directly by the Inspectorate.”

Increased enforcement comes as the Ministry continues to receive a growing number of complaints and tip-offs.

“The Ministry, in collaboration with other government departments, has consistently conducted inspections to ensure labor compliance. However, recent meetings with various stakeholders and concerned citizens have highlighted growing concerns about establishments hiring undocumented workers. These insights have been critical in shaping our ongoing response and reinforcing the urgency of addressing illegal employment practices. Illegal employment is a persistent concern that IVSA have raised with the Ministry on multiple occasions.”

“Reports of illegal hiring are received from a variety of sources, including workers and concerned citizens.”

As for the phrase “increased reports,” the Cabinet clarified: “When we refer to ‘increased reports,’ we mean a noticeable rise compared to when the minister entered office less than a year ago. For example, in the beginning of his tenure, the Minister recorded a number of complaints and tip-offs related to illegal employment, nearly double the amount received last month alone. This uptick signals a growing public awareness and concern, which the Ministry is actively responding to through enhanced inspections and enforcement.”

The Ministry continues to urge all employers currently engaged in non-compliant hiring practices to take immediate steps toward legal employment arrangements. It also encourages the public to report suspected cases of illegal employment confidentially.

For more information or to report a violation:

Labor Inspectorate

VSAinspection@sintmaartengov.org

Emergency Line: 1-721-524-7247

For assistance with labor compliance or regularization:

Labor Affairs – Employment Services Unit

info.laborsxm@sintmaartengov.org

1-721-542-542-3704 / 3702 / 3544

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