The way companies must onboard new employees has now changed.
Since 1 October 2022, only face-to-face checks, digital checks by an identity service provider (IDSP), or online checks (for foreign nationals with a visa) conducted on the Home Office website, provide a statutory excuse against a negligent illegal working offence.
Video calls are no longer allowed for checking right to work documents for employees, which should be completed on or before the first day of work.
Employers can still use in-person checks alone, just as they did before the pandemic, but if you want to use a digital solution, you need to set up a service with an IDSP.
Currently there are 12 certified IDSP companies, but many more going through the process. While it’s not a ‘must’ that you use a certified IDSP but it’s advisable to select those going through the certification process or already certified – just for your reassurance.
It is the responsibility of the employer to complete right to work checks. In the case where a company recruits temporary staff through a recruitment company, the recruiter will be able to carry out the checks on your behalf.
To help guide you through the changes, download our editable checklist which will take you through the process of choosing the correct right to work verification system for your organisation.
Whether you are looking for guidance to use across your own company, or you’re interested in learning more about what you need to do, this checklist is an excellent way of ensuring you have the right, compliant processes in place.
