On 1 July 2021, the process for completing right to work checks changed.
Employers are no longer able to accept EU passports or ID cards as valid proof of right to work for new staff, with the exception of Irish citizens. Instead, you should conduct an online check for job applicants that hold digital proof of their immigration status in the UK, known as an eVisa. This applies to most EU citizens, including those with settled or pre-settled status, those with a Hong Kong BNO visa and some other nationalities who have moved to the UK more recently under the points-based immigration system.
A manual check can be completed for UK and Irish nationals who can use their passport, or other identity document, as proof of their right to work. You will also need to complete a manual check for individuals in the UK who cannot prove their immigration status online.
It is important to note you do not need to retrospectively check the status of any EU, EEA, or Swiss citizens you employed before 1 July 2021.
To assist employers in carrying out right to work checks, we have developed a right to work check video which can be found on the Home Office YouTube channel here.
The video guides you through the new right to work check process, including details of applicant information required for both types of check and links to further information. We encourage you to share this within your organisation, and with your own stakeholders.
If you are interested in learning more about right to work checks, the points-based immigration system or the EU Settlement Scheme we continue to deliver explanatory events regarding the system. If this is something you would be interested in, please contact HM Government – Home Office here and we will be happy to work with you to find a suitable date.
