Whether you are an employer taking on a new job applicant from overseas or you are somebody looking for work after arriving in the UK, you need to be aware of what is required when doing so. For example providing a ‘Share Code’ for a Right to Work check, amongst other employment checks, such as criminal record checks.
It’s crucial to identify whether or not you need a share code to complete the employment application and how to apply for one.
The information below will outline the meaning of a ‘Share Code’ and the requirements for applying for and sharing one.
What is a Share Code?
A ‘Share Code’ is a unique 9-character alpha-numeric code generated upon completion of an application.
The government recently introduced Share Codes to allow potential employees to enter their details online. Employers can then view an individual's ‘right to work’ status via the government website.
The unique code can be presented to an employer by migrant workers to prove their right to work in the UK.
Please carry on reading his article for step by step instructions on to access your share code on the Home Office website.
How to Generate a 'Share Code'
To generate a ‘Share Code’, a worker will need a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP), Biometric Residence Card (BRC), Passport or National Identity Card.
The following methods are different ways to generate a ‘Share Code’:
UKVI Account
A UK Visas and Immigration account or ‘UKVI account’ is created and maintained by the government. This is a central place for individuals to update and view their online immigration status and make changes if necessary.
EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS)
If you have status under EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS), proving you have settled for 12 months or more, you can apply for a Share Code through this.
Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)
A Biometric Residence Permit is used to confirm your identity, right to study or right to use public services and benefits. They are an alternative way to apply for a Share Code; applicants must understand that you cannot use a Biometric Residence Permit to prove your right to work.
How to Obtain Your Share Code
Step 1: Navigate to the HMRC website
Follow this link: https://www.gov.uk/view-prove-immigration-status/
Step 2: Click the Start Now Button
Step 3: Select the ID Document Used in Your EU Settlement Scheme Application
Step 4: Type in Your ID Number and Press Continue
Step 5: Enter Your Date of Birth and Press Continue
Step 6: Chose the Verification Option Desired and Press Continue
Step 7: Add the Security Code Received via Email or Phone and Press Continue
Step 8: Click “Get a share code”
Step 9: Click "Get share code"
Step 10: Choose “To Prove My Right to Work” and Then Click Continue
Step 11: This Page Will Show Your Right to Work Details. Click Continue to Obtain the Code
Step 12: Share This Code With Your Employer
How Can Employers View Right to Work Details Using ‘Share Code’?
If your employer has requested a Share Code as part of your application, there are some crucial details you will need to provide them with to ensure they can view all the information required.
Firstly, you must supply your employer with your date of birth. This is the first step to ensuring they can enter your details correctly and view your right to work documents.
In addition, the most essential information to pass on to your employer is the share code itself. As previously stated, this will be a 9-character alpha-numeric code unique to yourself. Please note that these codes are usually only valid for 30 days; if you or your employer require this information for longer than 30 days after obtaining the code, you will need to apply for a new one.
What Information is Visible to Employers by Using ‘Share Code’?
When provided with a Share Code, employers are granted access to information about your working eligibility and personal rights. The following are aspects an employer can check:
- Which jobs the candidate can carry out.
- How long the applicant can legally work in the UK.
- Whether the candidate has access to public services such as the National Health Service (NHS)
- The rights an applicant has whilst living and working in the UK plus any other UK benefits they are entitled to.
- Whether the individual is legally entitled to open a bank account or apply for any credit whilst residing in the UK.
Who Can Use 'Share Code' to Prove Their Right to Work?
Migrant workers in the UK can use a share code to verify their rights.
For instance, a share code allows you to confirm your right to work or your eligibility to rent a property. Employers and landlords can use this code to verify your residency status. Additionally, you can check if you're eligible to claim benefits during your stay.
Right to Work Checks and Share Code support from Eurocom CI
If you aren’t sure whether you require a ‘Share Code’ to complete an application, it’s best to apply for one if you have the available documents noted above. If you don't, please find more information about the Right to Work documentation here.
Get in touch with Eurocom CI today to learn about Right to Work checks. We are a professional organisation specialising in various checks for employment sectors.
Jagriti Patwari
Jagriti Patwari is the Managing Director of Eurocom CI Ltd, a UK-based DBS umbrella body registered with the Disclosure and Barring Service. With nearly a decade of experience in the employee screening industry, Jagriti oversees compliance, risk management, and background checking operations across a wide range of sectors including healthcare, education, finance, and facilities management. Her work ensures that Eurocom CI's screening processes remain fully aligned with current DBS legislation, Home Office standards, and UK safeguarding requirements. Through her writing, Jagriti shares practical guidance and compliance expertise to help HR professionals, recruiters, and business owners navigate the complexities of employee screening — making informed hiring decisions that protect their organisations and the people they serve.
