The Home Office announced that they will be extending temporary COVID-19 virtual Right To Work checking to 20th June 2021. From 21st June, employers must conduct face-to-face and physical document checks as set out in legislation and guidance.
This is in response to the government’s easing of lockdown restrictions and social distancing measures in England and the devolved administrations. Therefore, until 20 June 2021 (inclusive), employers can:
- Check identity over video calls
- job applicants and existing workers can send scanned documents or a snapshot of documents using email or a mobile app, rather than sending originals
Employers are encouraged to use the Home Office’s Employer Checking Service if a prospective or existing employee cannot provide any of the accepted documents.
These checks are essential and employers must continue to check the prescribed documents to ensure that their employees have the legal right to work in the UK. In its announcement, the Home Office reiterated that it “remains an offence to knowingly employ anyone who does not have the right to work in the UK”.
Contact us if you require any further information or guidance on Right To Work checks and ensuring you and your business complies to UK Immigration Rules.
Click here if you would like to receive a copy of The Nathanson Partnership’s RTW Toolkit which contains comprehensive guidance and a checklist which can be used for each employee.
