From the desk · employer's guide
Right-to-work checks in 5 minutes
The check every UK employer must do before someone starts — without the legal fog. Six things to get right:
- 1.
Ask before they start, not after
The check must be done before the first shift. A photo of a passport sent by WhatsApp is not a completed check.
- 2.
British & Irish citizens: original documents
See the original passport (or birth certificate + NI proof), check it looks like the person, keep a dated copy. That's it.
- 3.
Everyone else: online share code
Ask for a 9-character share code and check it on GOV.UK ('View a job applicant's right to work details') with their date of birth. Keep the PDF result.
- 4.
CSCS is not a right-to-work check
A CSCS card proves site competence, not immigration status. You need both — and the coupon on this board asks applicants to confirm RTW up front.
- 5.
From 1 October 2026: self-employed subcontractors too
The rules now cover individual subcontractors, including CIS, and workers on worker contracts. If their engagement starts on or after 1 October 2026, do the same check before day one or you risk a civil penalty. Engagements that started earlier don't need a retrospective check.
- 6.
Keep records for 2 years after they leave
A correct, dated check gives you a statutory excuse against a civil penalty. No record — no excuse.
On this board:the apply coupon asks every applicant to confirm right to work, and you can mark a notice “RTW required” when posting. This guide is general information, not legal advice — GOV.UK has the current rules.
📄 The one-pager for the cabin wall
This checklist as a printable A4 — pin it up where inductions happen.