As a UK employer, conducting proper right-to-work checks is a legal requirement to prevent illegal working and avoid hefty penalties. Failing to verify an employee’s eligibility correctly can result in fines of up to £20,000 per worker and even criminal prosecution. This step-by-step guide explains how to comply with UK right-to-work regulations efficiently.

Why Are Right-to-Work Checks Important?

Under the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006, employers must:

• Verify that all employees (including British citizens) have the legal right to work in the UK
• Conduct checks before employment begins
• Keep proper records to establish a statutory excuse against liability

Step-by-Step Guide to Right-to-Work Checks

1. Determine Which Documents to Check

Employees can prove their right to work in two ways:

✅ List A Documents (Permanent right to work, e.g., British passport or settled status) – No follow-up checks required.
✅ List B Documents (Temporary right to work, e.g., visa or biometric residence permit) – Requires repeat checks before expiry.

2. Conduct the Check Correctly

• In-Person Checks: Physically inspect original documents with the employee present.
• Online Checks: Use the Home Office online service (for non-UK/Irish citizens with a share code).
• Remote Checks (Temporary): Until April 2025, employers can verify right-to-work via video call.

3. Verify Authenticity

• Check documents are original, unaltered, and valid.
• Match the photo and date of birth to the employee.
• For online checks, ensure the share code is current and matches the applicant.

4. Record & Retain Proof

• Keep copies of documents (or online verification results) securely.
• Note the date of inspection and store records for at least two years after employment ends.

5. Conduct Follow-Up Checks (If Required)

For List B employees, schedule repeat checks before their visa expires to maintain compliance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Accepting expired documents – Always check validity dates.
❌ Failing to re-check temporary visas – Leads to illegal working risks.
❌ Not keeping proper records – Without proof, you lose statutory excuse protection.

How VerifyOnline.co.uk Can Help

At VerifyOnline, we simplify right-to-work checks with:

✔ Fast digital verification (Home Office-compliant)
✔ Automated reminders for follow-up checks
✔ Secure document storage to meet compliance requirements

Final Thoughts

Right-to-work checks are a critical part of UK employment law. By following these steps, employers can avoid penalties, protect their business, and ensure a legal workforce.

For quick, compliant right-to-work checks, visit VerifyOnline today.