In the UK, having the right to work is vital for employment. For individuals with settled or pre-settled status, proving immigration status is now easier with the government’s share code system. But how do you get a share code, and how can you use it to prove your right to work?
If you’ve been told to provide a share code and don’t know where to start, this guide is for you. We’ll explain the Share Code UK process, including how to get it, how to use it, and why it’s essential for both employers and employees.
What Is a Share Code and Why Do You Need It?
A share code is a unique nine-character alphanumeric code from the UK government. It lets you share your immigration status with employers, landlords, or other relevant parties. This code is especially useful for people with settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, or for those on other immigration routes without physical documents like biometric residence cards or permits.
The share code verifies your legal right to work in the UK. It can be generated online and remains valid for 30 days. You can share it with employers or authorities who need to confirm your status.
Who Needs a Share Code?
If you are a non-UK citizen living in the UK and lack physical documents to prove your immigration status, you likely need a share code. The following groups often need to provide one:
- EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals: Those with settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme.
- Non-EU nationals: Those with specific visas or permits stored digitally by the UK Home Office.
- Employers: To comply with right-to-work checks, employers in the UK must verify the immigration status of non-UK workers. A share code simplifies this process.
- Landlords: Landlords may need to verify the immigration status of tenants before renting properties. A share code is useful for this.
If you’re uncertain about whether you need a share code, it’s advisable to check with the Home Office or consult a professional.
How to Get a Share Code in the UK
Getting a share code is a straightforward process. You can complete it online by following these steps:
1. Visit the UK Government Website
To generate a share code, visit the official UK government website. This portal lets you access your immigration status and generate a share code.
2. Enter Your Information
You will need to provide personal details, including:
- Your date of birth.
- The identity document (passport or national ID) used in your visa or immigration application.
- Your mobile number or email to receive a security code.
3. Generate the Share Code
Once you’ve entered your information, you can view your immigration status. From there, you can generate a share code. This code is valid for 30 days and can be shared with your employer, landlord, or authorities.
4. Provide the Share Code
After generating the code, give it to your employer or other relevant parties. They will also need your date of birth to access your immigration status online.
Why Is the Share Code Important for Employers?
For UK employers, conducting right-to-work checks before hiring is essential. This ensures compliance with immigration law. If they fail to do so, they may face penalties, fines, or even imprisonment.
The share code system simplifies verifying the immigration status of non-UK workers. By using the code, employers can instantly confirm if an individual has the legal right to work in the UK. Employers need both the share code and the individual’s date of birth to complete the verification process.
At CBM Accounting, we help businesses stay compliant with UK employment laws. Our comprehensive payroll and HR services ensure that right-to-work checks are handled correctly. If you’re unsure about immigration status verification for employees, we’re here to help.
What Happens if You Don’t Provide a Share Code?
Failing to provide a share code can lead to several complications:
- Employment Issues: Without proving your right to work, an employer cannot hire you legally, limiting your job opportunities.
- Rental Problems: Landlords may refuse to rent you a property if your immigration status isn’t verified.
- Legal Consequences for Employers: Employers who skip checking a worker’s right to work can face penalties or criminal charges.
To avoid these issues, generate and provide your share code when necessary.
The Importance of Staying Compliant with Immigration Law
For businesses, staying compliant with immigration laws is crucial to avoid penalties. Right-to-work checks using share codes offer a simple, effective way to ensure compliance. Employers are legally obligated to verify the immigration status of all employees. At CBM Accounting, our payroll services are designed to make this process easy.
If employers fail to carry out these checks, they risk civil penalties of up to £20,000 per illegal worker, or even criminal prosecution in serious cases. Proactively using share codes and conducting right-to-work checks can protect businesses from such risks.
How CBM Accounting Can Help
At CBM Accounting, we recognize the importance of compliance with UK immigration and employment laws. Our expert team can ensure your business meets all legal requirements, especially concerning right-to-work checks and payroll.
Our services include:
- Payroll and HR services: Ensuring correct right-to-work checks and compliance with UK employment law.
- Immigration advisory: Helping businesses navigate UK immigration regulations.
- Accounting services: Offering comprehensive accounting and financial solutions.
By working with us, you’ll be confident that your business is compliant, allowing you to focus on what matters most—running your business.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Share Codes
1. How Long Is the Share Code Valid?
A share code is valid for 30 days after it is generated. After that, you’ll need to create a new one if required again.
2. Can Employers Store the Share Code?
Yes, employers are encouraged to keep records of right-to-work checks, including the share code and verification results, for future audits.
3. Can I Use the Same Share Code for Multiple Employers?
Yes, you can provide the same share code to multiple employers, as long as it remains valid within the 30-day period.
4. Is There a Fee to Generate a Share Code?
No, generating a share code is free and easily done online.
Conclusion
The share code UK system is a simple yet effective way to prove your right to work in the UK. Whether you’re an individual needing to verify your immigration status or an employer conducting right-to-work checks, understanding how the system works is essential.
At CBM Accounting, we provide expert assistance to individuals and businesses navigating UK immigration law and right-to-work checks. If you need help generating or verifying a share code, or if you have questions about employment law compliance, feel free to reach out.
