A right to work check is the process a UK employer uses to confirm a person can legally do the job before employing them. It involves checking acceptable documents or an online status, and gives the employer a statutory excuse against civil penalties.
In one line: A right to work check is how an employer confirms a worker is allowed to do the job before employment begins.
How a right to work check works
Employers verify either acceptable physical documents, such as a British passport, or an online immigration status using a share code for those with an eVisa. The check must be completed before the person starts work.
For example, an employer hiring a Skilled Worker visa holder in 2026 asks for a share code, enters it on the Home Office checking service, confirms the photo matches, and keeps a dated copy of the result on file.
A correctly conducted check provides a statutory excuse, protecting the employer from a civil penalty if a worker later turns out to lack permission. Employing someone without the right to work can lead to significant fines.
Right to work check vs eVisa
An eVisa is the worker's digital proof of immigration status, the thing being checked. A right to work check is the employer's action of verifying that proof and recording it.
For status held digitally, the check usually relies on a share code generated from the eVisa rather than inspecting a card, while certain documents like a British passport can still be checked directly.
Primary source: Home Office: Check if someone can work in the UK (GOV.UK)