Share code (right to work and immigration status)

Since physical immigration documents were replaced by eVisas, the usual way to show what you are allowed to do in the UK is a share code. You create it in the GOV.UK view and prove your immigration status service, give it to the organisation with your date of birth, and they look up your record online. GOV.UK says you do not need to show them your eVisa itself.

The most common use for health professionals is the right to work check before you start with an NHS trust or other employer. GOV.UK's employer service asks for the applicant's date of birth and their right to work share code, and the result shows the types of work you can do and, if your permission is time-limited, how long you can work.

Share codes are not only for jobs. GOV.UK says you can use one to prove your status to others such as landlords, or when you travel, always alongside your date of birth. Before you generate any code, make sure your UKVI account shows your current passport, name and photo, because GOV.UK asks you to update the account if any of these change.

1. Make sure your UKVI account is set up and linked to your eVisa.
2. Sign in to the view and prove your immigration status service. GOV.UK says you need one of: your passport, national identity card, biometric residence card (valid or expired), expired BRP or UKVI customer number, plus access to the phone or email linked to the account.
3. Choose what you need to prove. For a job, choose proving your right to work, because employers check with a right to work share code.
4. Check which of your details will be shown. GOV.UK tells you before the code is generated.
5. Send the code and your date of birth to the employer.

GOV.UK says a share code lasts for 90 days, can be used as many times as you need before it expires, and you can get a new one whenever you need it. GOV.UK also states that you do not need to pay to set up a UKVI account or access your eVisa. If your start date moves past the 90 days, simply create a fresh code.

GOV.UK says British and Irish citizens cannot get a share code. They prove their right to work with a passport or, if the employer offers it, an online identity service provider. If you cannot access an eVisa, GOV.UK lists other ways to prove your right to work or rent, and an employer can check original documents instead.

• Wrong type of code. A code made for renting may not work for a job check. Generate one for right to work.
• Out-of-date passport in the account. Update it first so the record matches your documents.
• Expired code. Codes last 90 days, so make a new one for each new employer if needed.
• Errors on the record. Report them through your UKVI account before the employer checks.

Our Health and Care Worker visa guide shows where the check sits before your start date.