Covid Concession right to work checks extended until 31 August 2021 (inclusive)

The resumption of the usual methods of conducting manual right to work checks was due to resume on 21 June 2021. However, the Covid Concession for right to work checks has been extended.

The Government announced on 14 June 2021 that the date for the easing of lockdown restrictions and social distancing measures would be extended. As a result the temporary COVID-19 adjusted right to work checks will now end on 31 August 2021.

From 1 September 2021, employers will have to resume carrying out a manual check on an applicant’s right to work documents, either at a face-to face meeting or via a live video link, as long as the original document itself has been sent to the employer by post. Employers will also be able to check an applicant’s right to work online if the applicant provides a share code.

Employers will not need to carry out retrospective right to work checks on those who had a COVID-19 adjusted check between 30 March 2020 and 31 August (inclusive). Employers maintain a defence against a civil penalty if the check undertaken during this period was done in the prescribed manner or as set out in the COVID-19 adjusted checks guidance.

The date for Covid Concessions for right to work checks had previously been extended to 20 June. If you need advice on right to work checks, please do contact our immigration team.