If you want to start a new job in the UK, your employer will usually need to check that you have the legal right to work. Knowing how to prove your right to work can help you avoid delays, prepare the right documents, and start your new job with confidence.
How Can You Prove Your Right to Work?
The evidence you need depends on your nationality and immigration status. You can demonstrate that you are legally allowed to work in the UK in several ways.
1. Use the Online Right to Work Checking Service
If you have an eligible digital immigration status, such as a visa or status under the EU Settlement Scheme, you can usually prove your right to work online.
You will generally need to access your UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account and generate a share code. You can then give this code to your employer, together with your date of birth, so they can check your permission using the official GOV.UK service.
A share code is time-limited, so make sure you provide a valid code for employment purposes.
2. If You Are a British or Irish Citizen
If you are a British or Irish citizen, you can usually prove your right to work by showing your employer an eligible British or Irish passport. If you do not have a passport, other documents may be accepted, depending on your circumstances and the government's right to work checking rules.
If you are not a British or Irish citizen, you will generally need to demonstrate your right to work through your immigration status or other acceptable evidence.
3. Check Your Immigration Status Before Starting Work
Before accepting a job, make sure your immigration permission allows you to undertake the work offered. Some visas restrict the type of work you can do, the number of hours you can work or the employers you can work for.
If your circumstances have changed or your permission is approaching its expiry date, check what steps you need to take to maintain your right to work.
What If You Cannot Prove Your Right to Work?
If you cannot provide the required evidence, your employer may need to delay your start date until the appropriate checks are completed. This does not necessarily mean you have no right to work, but you should establish what evidence is acceptable for your circumstances.
If you believe your immigration status is incorrect or you are experiencing difficulties accessing your digital status, seek appropriate advice and contact the relevant UKVI service if necessary.
Where Can You Check Your Right to Work?
You can find the official guidance and access the online service on GOV.UK: Prove your right to work to an employer.
Taking a few minutes to check your status before starting a new job can help you avoid unnecessary delays and protect your employment prospects.
This guide is for general information only and is not legal advice.
If you need advice, our helplines are available Monday to Wednesday, 10 am to 4 pm:
PL/LT/EN: 07521857415
RO/EN: 07730021986
UA/RU/EN: 07718612218
This is in line with the information available as of 16/10/2026.