Virtual Right to Work checks extended

The Home Office have updated their Guidance on COVID-19 Right to Work checks to confirm that the process for adjusted checks will be extended to 5 April 2022.

The adjusted Covid checks mean that employers can continue to utilise the following process;

• ask the worker to submit a scanned copy or a photo of their original documents via email or using a mobile app
• arrange a video call with the worker – ask them to hold up the original documents to the camera and check them against the digital copy of the documents record the date you made the check and mark it as “adjusted check undertaken on [insert date] due to COVID-19"
• if the worker has a current Biometric Residence Permit or Biometric Residence Card or has been granted status under the EU Settlement Scheme or the points-based immigration system you can use the online Right to Work checking service while doing a video call – the applicant must give you permission to view their details.

Aspire Comment:

This will come as a huge relief to many employers who have been preparing to return to in person Right to Work checks despite still being in the grips of a pandemic, faced with issues such as distance working, self-isolation and employee concerns about exposure to the virus.

Despite this update, it remains imperative that employers ensure that their Right to Work checking process remains robust and complies with that set out by the Home Office.

If you have any questions about how to carry out a Right to Work check or wish to discuss implementing a Right to Work policy or carrying out staff training on this topic, give us a call on 0121 445 6178 or email us at enquire@aspirepartnership.co.uk