If a UK employer or recruitment agency asks you for a Right to Work share code, it usually means you’re close to being hired — but many foreign workers get stuck at this stage because no one explains what a share code actually is.
This guide explains what a UK Right to Work share code is, who needs one, how to get it, and what to do if something goes wrong.
Everything below reflects current UK practice.
What Is a UK Right to Work Share Code?
A Right to Work share code is a temporary online code that allows a UK employer to check whether you are legally allowed to work in the UK.
Instead of showing physical documents, employers now:
- ask for a share code
- enter it into the official online system
- confirm your work permission digitally
This system is now standard for many foreign workers.
Who Needs a Right to Work Share Code?
You usually need a share code if:
- you are a foreign worker
- your immigration status is digital
- your employer asks you to prove your right to work online
Many people do not receive physical documents anymore and rely entirely on digital checks.
Do All Foreign Workers Need One?
No — not everyone.
You may not need a share code if:
- you are a British citizen
- you have settled or pre-settled status and use different checks
- your employer confirms another valid method
However, many employers now prefer share codes because they are faster and compliant.
How to Get a UK Right to Work Share Code
Getting a share code is free and only takes a few minutes.
You generate it yourself online and then send it to your employer.
Important points:
- You do not apply for a share code in advance
- You generate it when an employer asks
- The code is time-limited
What Information You Need
To generate a share code, you’ll need:
- your personal details (as recorded officially)
- access to your digital immigration status
- a way to receive verification messages if required
Once generated, you receive:
- a short share code
- instructions to pass it to your employer
How Employers Use Your Share Code
Your employer:
- enters the share code into the official system
- views your right to work status
- confirms what work you are allowed to do
They cannot:
- change your status
- see unrelated personal information
- access anything beyond right to work confirmation
How Long a Share Code Lasts
A Right to Work share code:
- is temporary
- usually valid for a short period
- can be generated again if it expires
If your code expires:
- simply generate a new one
- send the new code to your employer
There is no limit to how many you can create.
What If an Employer Says Your Share Code Doesn’t Work?
This is common and usually not your fault.
Typical reasons:
- the code expired
- a letter or number was entered incorrectly
- the employer used the wrong checking option
- your status hasn’t fully updated yet
Fix:
- generate a new share code
- resend it
- ask the employer to retry
Share Code vs BRP (Important Update)
The UK is moving away from physical BRP cards.
Many foreign workers:
- do not receive a physical BRP
- prove status digitally only
- use share codes instead of documents
If someone tells you to “bring your BRP”:
- explain that your status is digital
- provide a share code instead
This is normal and increasingly common.
Can You Start Work Without a Share Code?
Sometimes, but often no.
Many employers:
- will not confirm a start date without it
- cannot legally complete checks without proof
- delay onboarding until checks are done
If work is delayed, this is usually administrative, not rejection.
Common Share Code Myths (Not True)
- ❌ “It costs money”
- ❌ “You only get one”
- ❌ “Employers can track you”
- ❌ “It replaces your visa”
A share code is simply a temporary access key — nothing more.
Final Honest Advice
If an employer asks for a Right to Work share code:
- it’s a good sign
- you’re close to starting
- the system is normal, not suspicious
If something doesn’t work:
- generate a new code
- resend it
- stay calm — delays are common
Understanding this step removes one of the biggest hiring roadblocks for foreign workers in the UK.
You may also find these related guides useful
15 UK Jobs That Don’t Require UK Work Experience (For Foreigners)
15 Easiest Jobs for Foreigners to Get in the UK (2025 Guide)
Top 10 No-Experience Jobs in the UK (2025 Guide)
How to Write a UK CV in 2025: Simple Guide With Real Examples