Right to Work Check Checklist

Why this checklist?

‍Failing to carry out right-to-work checks correctly can lead to severe consequences:

• Costly Fines and Sanctions: Employers face a civil penalty of £45,000 per worker for a first breach within a three-year period, rising to £60,000 per worker for a repeat breach. Because it is charged per worker rather than per incident, an employer with several people in scope can face a bill well into six figures.
• Damaged Reputation: A single oversight can tarnish your business's credibility with clients and stakeholders.
• Operational Disruptions: Failure to comply with Home Office regulations can lead to a suspension or revocation of your sponsor licence.
• Risk of Overlooking Key Steps: Without a clear process, you may inadvertently skip critical actions like verifying photo matches or retaining proof of checks.

The penalty follows the missing evidence, not the hiring decision. A correctly completed and recorded check gives you a statutory excuse, which is the protection that stops a penalty landing even where a worker turns out not to have had the right to work.

Don’t leave your compliance to chance—use this checklist to stay proactive and protected.

What’s Inside?

‍‍This comprehensive checklist equips you with tools to simplify and standardise your compliance process:

• Step-by-Step Instructions: A clear breakdown of every stage in the right-to-work check process, from requesting share codes to recording results.
• Common Mistakes to Avoid: Insights on how to prevent errors like accepting expired documents or failing to repeat checks for limited-right-to-work employees.
• Templates for Recordkeeping: Ready-to-use templates to organize and maintain proof of compliance.
• Practical Compliance Tips: Best practices for ensuring checks are conducted accurately and consistently across your organisation.

Prepare your team and safeguard your business with confidence.