The Government has introduced temporary changes to make it easier for employers to carry out right work checks during the pandemic.

This means that checks for key workers can now be done online so that recruiters can place people quickly into the roles where they are needed.

What has changed?

• Right to work checks can now take place over video calls, during which the recruiter should ask the work-seeker to hold up the original docs to the camera and check them against a digital copy. The work-seeker can submit a scanned copy or a photo of their original docs via email or using a mobile app.
• If individuals have a biometric residence card or permit, or status under the EU Settled Status Scheme, they can give the recruiter permission to view their details during the call using the online right to work checking scheme.
• Work-seekers can provide scans or photos of original documents electronically. Recruiters should record right to work checks made using these methods as “adjusted check undertaken on [insert date] due to COVID-19”.
• If a work-seeker or worker cannot provide right to work documentation then recruiters should continue to use the Home Office’s Employer Checking Service.

These changes are temporary. The government will provide advanced notification when they are due to end.