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A Share Code UK is a unique alphanumeric code issued by the UK government that allows individuals to digitally prove their immigration status and right to work in the UK. This system streamlines the verification process for employers, reducing reliance on physical documents and enhancing security.

Implementation of the Share Code UK Policy

The UK government introduced the Share Code system as part of its efforts to digitize immigration status verification. This initiative became particularly significant following Brexit, as EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals were required to prove their right to work in the UK through digital means. The exact implementation date varies, but the system has been in place since the UK departed from the EU.

Eligibility for a Share Code

Individuals who can apply for a Share Code include:

• Non-British or non-Irish citizens with a biometric residence permit or card.
• Those with a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account, which includes individuals who have:
  • Applied to the EU Settlement Scheme.
  • Used the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app during a visa application.
  • Created an account when applying for a visa or accessing an eVisa.

British and Irish citizens do not require a Share Code to prove their right to work.

GOV.UK

How to Obtain a Share Code

To generate a Share Code:

1. Visit the GOV.UK website.
2. Select the identification document you wish to use (e.g., biometric residence permit, biometric residence card, passport, or national identity card).
3. Enter your details, including your date of birth and document number.
4. Follow the prompts to generate your unique Share Code.

This code can then be provided to employers to verify your right to work.

GOV.UK

How Employers Can Check a Right to Work Share Code

Employers can verify a candidate’s right to work by:

1. Visiting the Employer Checking Service.
2. Entering the candidate’s Share Code and date of birth.
3. Reviewing the individual’s right-to-work details, including the types of work they are permitted to do and the duration of their work authorization.

This process ensures compliance with UK immigration laws.

GOV.UK

Validity Period of a Share Code

A Right to Work Share Code is valid for 90 days from the date of generation. After this period, a new code must be generated for verification purposes.

DavidsonMorris

Benefits to the UK Government and Employers

The Share Code system offers several advantages:

• For the UK Government:
  • Enhances the security and accuracy of immigration status verification.
  • Reduces the risk of document fraud.
  • Streamlines administrative processes related to immigration and employment.
• For Employers:
  • Simplifies the right-to-work verification process.
  • Provides real-time access to accurate immigration status information.
  • Ensures compliance with legal obligations, reducing the risk of penalties.

Overall, the Share Code system facilitates a more efficient and secure method for verifying individuals’ right to work in the UK.