THE EZHR WEEKLY UPDATE 24th August 2023
On a quieter update than usual, we talk about Right to Work checks.
The Home Office has announced an overhaul of civil fines for employers who employ people without the right to work.
They announced the penalty for employers who fail to take the necessary steps. This will increase £45,000 for an initial breach, from the previous £15,000. Subsequent violations will mean fines up to £60,000, up from £20,000.
Also, the Home Office will be reviewing measures to further intensify actions against licensed entities found employing unauthorized workers.
While the ways and means that employers verify the legal status of potential hires remain the same
· Obtain Original Documents: Ask for the potential employee's original documents that prove their right to work in the UK.
· Check the Documents:
a. Ensure the documents are valid and genuine. Confirm the photographs and dates of birth are consistent across documents and with the person's appearance.
b. Check the expiry dates on visas or work permits.
c. Confirm the work permits and allow the type of work the individual will be doing.
d. Check for any changes in names across documents and ask for supporting documents like marriage certificates if necessary.
· Make and Retain a Copy: Make a clear copy of each document and keep these copies securely. It's advised to note the date of the check and store it securely on their file.
· Follow-up Checks: For individuals with a limited time to work in the UK, repeat checks are required. You should conduct these follow-up checks shortly before the expiry of the person's current right to work.
· Use the Online Right-to-Work Checking Service: If you have any concerns, you aren’t sure or the job applicant has provided a share code, you can use the online right-to-work checking service.
https://www.gov.uk/employee-immigration-employment-status
If you have any questions on this issue please don't hesitate to contact us at info@ezhr.uk or 0161 843 5678.
