Introduction
Before commencing employment in the UK, it is essential to prove your right to work to your prospective employer. The method you employ for this verification depends on your nationality and the type of work permission you possess in the UK.
For British or Irish Citizens
If you are a British or Irish citizen, you have the option to prove your right to work in the UK using the following documents:
Acceptable Documents
An Irish passport or passport card
These documents can be either current or expired.
Alternative Documents
If you do not possess a passport or passport card, you can still establish your right to work with one of the following documents:
A UK birth or adoption certificate.
A certificate of registration or naturalisation as a British citizen
Additionally, you must provide your employer with an official letter or document from a previous employer or a government agency. Suitable examples include a letter from [HM Revenue and Customs HMRC, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), or the Social Security Agency in Northern Ireland. The letter must display your name and National Insurance number.
For those with a passport or passport card, there may be an option to use an online identity service provider (IDSP) to verify your right to work. Please inquire with your employer if they offer this service.
For Non-British or Non-Irish Citizens
If you are not a British or Irish citizen, you have two options to prove your right to work:
Acceptable Methods
- A share code (available for online application)
- Your immigration documents
You have the flexibility to choose between these options. It is important to note that your employer cannot reject your application if you provide them with an eligible immigration document instead of a share code.
Unable to Prove Your Right to Work
If you are not a British or Irish citizen and encounter difficulties proving your right to work, your employer can utilize the employer checking service..
Windrush Scheme
If you are a Commonwealth citizen, you may explore the Windrush Scheme to obtain documents confirming your eligibility to work in the UK.
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