Checks & records
What is a share code?
A share code is the reference an individual generates so an employer can check their right to work online against Home Office records, rather than by inspecting documents.
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<img src="https://agencyoptix.co.uk/glossary/share-code/diagram.svg" alt="share code — diagram from AgencyOptix" width="880" height="620" loading="lazy">
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<a href="https://agencyoptix.co.uk/glossary/share-code">What is a share code?</a> — diagram by
<a href="https://agencyoptix.co.uk">AgencyOptix</a>
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</figure>For many people the online route is now the only valid one, and attempting a manual document check where an online check is required does not establish the statutory excuse.
The check has to be against the individual's actual record, with the employer satisfying themselves the photograph matches. Receiving a code and not completing the check establishes nothing.
The output has to be retained in the prescribed form for the prescribed period, which is a specific record rather than a note that a check was done.
What goes wrong in practice
- Manual document checks where the online route was required.
- Code received and the check never completed.
- Output not retained in the form required.