There are some important changes to the Right to Work checks that will come into effect from 1st January 2025. As part of ongoing improvements to the immigration system, the Home Office is introducing new procedures that will impact how businesses conduct these checks for employees.
What’s Changing?
From 1st January 2025, there will be significant changes to how you can verify your employees’ right to work in the UK. These updates are part of the broader implementation of the eVisa system and will affect both the process and documentation required.
Key Changes:
- Introduction of eVisas: All eligible non-citizens in the UK will have their right to work status confirmed via a digital system. Paper-based documentation will no longer be the standard means of verification.
- Mandatory Digital Checks: Employers will be required to use the Home Office online checking service for those who have an eVisa. This service will provide confirmation of the individual’s right to work status.
- Removal of Physical Documents: As part of the transition to digital checks, traditional physical documents (such as biometric residence cards and certain passport stamps) may no longer be acceptable as proof of right to work. Employers must ensure they use the online system for verification.
- Adjusted Deadlines: The Home Office will provide guidelines on how to handle checks for employees with expiring documents or transitioning from older systems. Be sure to check the Home Office’s official website for up-to-date timelines.
- No Change for British Citizens: The process for verifying the right to work for British citizens will remain unchanged.
What Do You Need to Do?
- Prepare for Digital Checks: Make sure your HR team is familiar with the online Right to Work check process.
- Ensure Compliance: Review your current procedures to ensure that they align with the updated requirements, and make sure all staff are aware of the changes.
- Stay Informed: We recommend monitoring the Home Office guidance leading up to the change and reviewing any necessary training for your HR personnel.
