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What is a Right to Work Share Code
A right to work share code is a nine-character alphanumeric code issued by the UK Home Office to individuals who hold a digital immigration status. It allows employers to check whether a person is legally permitted to work in the UK. Instead of relying on paper documents like visas or residence permits, the share code provides an online verification method that is both secure and efficient.
The code itself is temporary, usually valid for 30 days, and can be generated online at any time through the GOV.UK platform. The right to work share code also extends beyond employment, as landlords may request a similar code known as a right to rent share code. Other government services, such as the DVLA, use similar systems for driving licence verification, but the purpose of the right to work share code is strictly employment eligibility.
Why a Right to Work Share Code is Important
The right to work share code plays a crucial role in maintaining compliance with UK immigration law. Employers are legally required to ensure every employee has the right to work before hiring them. By using the share code system, businesses can confirm eligibility directly with the Home Office, reducing the risk of mistakes, fraud, or outdated paperwork being used.
For job seekers, the system provides a faster and more convenient way to prove their right to work. Rather than carrying physical documents or worrying about replacements if papers are lost, they can simply provide a code. This code can then be entered into the GOV.UK portal by an employer to verify the details in real time, making the recruitment process smoother and faster.
How to Get a Share Code in the UK
Getting a right to work share code is straightforward. Individuals log onto the GOV.UK website, access the “Prove your right to work” service, and enter their details, such as date of birth and identification numbers. The system then generates a unique nine-character code that can be shared with employers or landlords when needed.
This code is valid for 30 days, after which a new one must be generated. The process can be repeated as many times as required, which is particularly useful for people applying to multiple jobs or rental agreements. If an individual misplaces or forgets their code, they can easily return to the GOV.UK portal to generate a fresh one. Many people search online with phrases like “get my share code” or “generate share code UK” to access this service.
How Employers and Landlords Use a Share Code
Employers use a right to work share code to check whether a candidate is allowed to work in the UK and what type of work they are permitted to do. They simply go to the “check a job applicant’s right to work” page on GOV.UK, enter the share code and the applicant’s date of birth, and the system displays the person’s immigration status.
Landlords follow a similar process with the right to rent share code. This allows them to confirm whether a potential tenant has the legal right to rent property in the UK. Both systems are designed to protect businesses and landlords from legal penalties while giving individuals a clear, official way to prove their eligibility. The share code approach reduces paperwork, prevents forgery, and ensures that only the most current information is used in decisions.
How to Check a Right to Work Share Code Online
Checking a share code online is quick and reliable. An employer enters the nine-character code and the applicant’s date of birth on the GOV.UK website. The system then shows whether the person has permission to work in the UK and whether any restrictions apply, such as limitations on the type of work or hours permitted.
This method is more secure than relying on physical documents, which can be copied or forged. By linking directly to the Home Office database, employers receive the most accurate and up-to-date immigration status information. It is recommended that employers keep a record of the result, such as a screenshot or PDF, as evidence that the right to work check was completed correctly.
Common Issues with Share Codes and How to Solve Them
While the system is generally reliable, some applicants face problems generating or using their right to work share code. Mistyped personal details, outdated immigration records, or temporary technical issues on the GOV.UK website can all cause delays. Applicants should double-check their information and try again if a code does not generate correctly.
Another common issue is expired codes. Since each code lasts only 30 days, applicants must generate a new one whenever required. Employers should always ask for a fresh code if an older one is invalid. If problems persist, individuals may need to contact the Home Office to resolve issues with their immigration status.
Right to Work Checks and Legal Responsibilities
Employers must perform right to work checks on every employee before they begin work. Failing to do so can lead to civil penalties of up to £20,000 per worker, and in severe cases, criminal prosecution. The right to work share code provides a secure and government-approved way to complete these checks and avoid potential fines.
It is also important for employers to keep clear records of their checks. The Home Office requires businesses to demonstrate that they carried out the verification properly. This can include storing digital copies of the online results. With the rise of digital systems, employers are strongly encouraged to use the share code method instead of relying solely on manual document checks.
Conclusion
The right to work share code is now an essential tool for employees, employers, and landlords across the UK. It simplifies the process of proving immigration status, reduces the risk of fraud, and ensures compliance with UK law. By using this system, both individuals and organisations can avoid unnecessary complications and delays.
As the UK continues to move towards digital verification systems, understanding how to get, use, and check a right to work share code has never been more important. Whether you are applying for a job, hiring new staff, or renting property, this small piece of code plays a big role in protecting everyone involved.
FAQs About Right to Work Share Code
What is a right to work share code and who needs one?
It is a nine-character code provided by the Home Office to prove immigration status. Non-UK and non-Irish citizens with digital status need one.
How do I get a share code online?
You can generate a share code through the GOV.UK website by entering your personal details and identification information.
How long does a share code last?
A right to work share code is valid for 30 days and must be regenerated when it expires.
Can British or Irish citizens use a share code?
They usually prove their status with a passport and do not require a right to work share code.
What should employers do if a code does not work?
Employers should ask the applicant to generate a new code or contact the Home Office if the issue continues.
Can the same share code be used for work and renting?
No, a right to work share code and a right to rent share code are separate, even though both are generated on GOV.UK.
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