If you’re an employer in the UK or a non-UK citizen looking to prove your right to work, you may have come across the term “share code”. But what exactly is a share code, and why is it important?
Introduced by the UK government, a share code is part of the Home Office’s digital right to work check process. It’s a secure, quick, and convenient way for individuals to share their immigration status with an employer or other relevant party.
What Is a Share Code?
A share code is a unique, 9-character alphanumeric code provided by the UK government’s “View and Prove Your Immigration Status” service. It allows non-UK citizens to share their immigration status information – such as their right to work or rent – with an employer or landlord.
This system replaces the need for physical documents (like Biometric Residence Permits) in many cases and helps streamline the verification process for both parties.
Who Needs a Share Code?
Anyone who is not a British or Irish citizen and needs to prove their immigration status to a UK employer may need a share code. This includes:
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EU, EEA or Swiss citizens who have settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme
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Individuals with visas, such as Skilled Worker visas
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Anyone with a biometric residence card or permit
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Students or temporary workers from overseas
Employers can then use the share code to confirm the individual’s right to work using the Home Office online service.
How to Get a Share Code
To get a share code, individuals should visit the government’s official website:
www.gov.uk/prove-right-to-work
From there, they will need to log in using details such as:
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Their biometric residence permit/card or passport
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Their date of birth
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Access to an email address or phone number linked to their immigration record
Once logged in, they can generate a share code, which is valid for 90 days. The code can be shared with an employer, who can use it alongside the individual’s date of birth to verify their status.
For Employers: How to Use a Share Code
Employers can use the following government tool:
www.gov.uk/view-right-to-work
After entering the share code and the individual’s date of birth, the system will display the person’s immigration status and whether they have the right to work in the UK – including any conditions, such as limits on hours or types of work.
It’s important that employers keep a copy of the check results to demonstrate compliance with right to work requirements.
Final Thoughts
A share code is a vital tool in the modern UK immigration system, designed to make status checks simpler, faster, and more secure. Whether you’re an individual needing to prove your right to work, or an employer carrying out checks, understanding how to use a share code properly is essential for legal compliance.
For reliable DBS checks and right to work guidance, trust clearcheck.co.uk – your partner in safe and compliant hiring.
