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Proof of permission to work

Examples of documents which, if requested from a new recruit, checked and copied, can provide a defence to a charge of employing an illegal worker:

One of:

  • A UK passport
  • A passport issued by a member state of the European Economic Area (EEA)
  • A UK residence permit or registration card
  • A non-UK/EEA passport which contains a certificate of "right of abode"
  • A non-UK/EEA passport which is endorsed to show that the holder has leave to remain in the UK and is permitted to take the employment in question (if the employment requires a work permit - the work permit must be viewed, checked and copied in addition to the passport)

OR:

  • A document issued by a previous employer or HM Revenue and Customs, which contains the person's national insurance number (e.g. P45/P60)

Plus

  • A UK/Channel Islands birth certificate which specifies the names of the holder's parents; or
  • A certificate of registration or naturalisation as a British citizen; or
  • A letter of immigration status document issued by the Home Office confirming that the holder has indefinite leave to remain in the UK or limited leave to remain and permission to work.

OR:

  • A work permit or other approval to take employment issued by Work Permits UK

Plus

  • A passport/travel document endorsed to show that the holder has leave to enter or remain in the UK and is permitted to take the employment in question; or
  • A letter issued by the Home Office confirming the same.

This list sets out examples and is not definitive. If you are in any doubt, advice should be sought.