06/10/2026
Taking on a new employee? Make sure their right to work check is completed before employment begins.
The right checking route matters. If the applicant provides a share code, use the employer-facing Home Office service on GOV.UK. Simply collecting the code is not enough.
For a manual check, follow the Home Office acceptable-document lists. Inspect the original documents with the applicant present, check that they are genuine and belong to that person, make clear copies and record the check date. Biometric residence permits and cards are not acceptable for manual right to work checks.
Whichever route applies, confirm the applicant's identity and that their permission allows the proposed work. Check any restrictions relevant to the role.
British and Irish citizens cannot use an online share code. Use acceptable original documents or an eligible digital identity checking route instead.
Keep the online checking response or permitted document copies securely, with the check date, throughout employment and for 2 years afterwards.
If an applicant cannot provide documents or online status, follow the official Employer Checking Service guidance rather than assuming they cannot work. Apply checks without unlawful discrimination.
Contact X Law for advice on your right to work checking process.
Official guidance:
https://www.gov.uk/check-job-applicant-right-to-work
https://www.gov.uk/view-right-to-work
