Living Abroad

UK Right to Work Checks: What Newcomers Should Expect From Employers

2 min read

In this guide
  1. What does GOV.UK say about proof?
  2. What should you do as a new employee?
  3. Common mistakes
  4. FAQ
    1. Where do employers find the official rules?
  5. Key takeaways
  6. Related guides
  7. Sources

Quick answer: Before you start work in the UK, your employer must check you have the right to work there. GOV.UK says expired physical Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) are not acceptable proof of right to work, and employers can use an online “Check if someone can work in the UK” tool.

What does GOV.UK say about proof?

  • Expired physical BRPs are “not acceptable proof of right to work” (a 26 June 2025 update).
  • If an employer is reasonably satisfied that a worker has an outstanding Home Office application made before their previous leave expired, or an outstanding appeal, the employer can get a Positive Verification Notice from the Employer Checking Service.
  • Employers have an official guide that covers which documents are acceptable for a manual check.

What should you do as a new employee?

  • Check that your UKVI account works and learn how to create a share code. See our eVisa and share code guide.
  • Do this before your start date, not on the first day.
  • If your application is still being decided, tell your employer so they can use the correct route.

Common mistakes

  • Offering an expired physical BRP as proof.
  • Waiting until your first day to find you cannot access your account.

FAQ

Where do employers find the official rules?

In GOV.UK’s employer guide to right to work checks. The page lists a PDF guide dated 1 October 2026.

Key takeaways

  • An expired physical BRP is not acceptable proof.
  • Outstanding applications may be verified through the Employer Checking Service.
  • Prepare your share code early.

Last updated: October 2026. Rules change, so check the official page.

Sources

  • GOV.UK: Right to work checks, an employer’s guide

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