eVisas in the UK: Essential Guide for Employers on Digital Right to Work Compliance

Organisations can no longer accept paper copies of Right to Work documentation. Every time you hire someone, you mustcheck their share code online.

The UK Home Office has introduced sweeping changes to immigration processes, replacing physical documents like Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) with electronic visas (eVisas). This shift to a fully digital immigration system fundamentally alters how employers verify candidates’ right to work in the UK.

What Are eVisas?

An eVisa is a digital record of an individual’s immigration status, managed through a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account. It allows visa holders to securely share proof of their right to work, rent, or access public services.

Key Advantages of eVisas for UK Employers:

• Enhanced Security: eVisas eliminate risks of loss, theft, or damage associated with physical documents.
• Instant Verification: Employers can validate a candidate’s right to work in real-time, streamlining onboarding.
• Effortless Updates: Visa holders can update personal details or statuses digitally via their UKVI account.

Impact on Employers and Recruitment Strategies

As an Engineering recruitment leader, we recognise the urgency of adapting to these changes. Key considerations include:

• Mandatory Digital Checks: Employers must use the Home Office’s online service for Right to Work checks. Failure to comply risks legal penalties.
• Reduced Fraud Risk: Digital verification minimises exposure to forged documents, ensuring compliance with UK immigration law.

Next Steps for Employers:

1. Familiarise yourself with the eVisa system and how it works.
2. Review and update your right-to-work check processes to align with digital verification requirements.
3. Partner with a recruitment company that understands and navigates these changes seamlessly on your behalf.

At Rise, we stay ahead of legislative updates to keep your hiring processes seamless. From training your team on eVisa systems to auditing your compliance workflows, we ensure your business remains aligned with Home Office requirements.

Get in touch today by visiting https://www.risetechnical.co.uk/employers or emailing [email protected]