From 30 March 2020, temporary guidance on right-to-work checks has been in place to allow employers to conduct checks without seeing the individual face to face. Checks can be carried out via video and scanned or photo versions of the original required documents can be used.
Employers have a defence against a civil penalty if they complete a right-to-work check in accordance with the temporary adjustments. As long as employers followed the temporary guidance, they are not expected to carry out face-to-face checks retrospectively.
However, these temporary measures are due to last only until 5 April 2022. Employers should look out for new guidance on right-to-work checks that will apply from 6 April 2022 (although it is possible that the temporary guidance will be extended).
If you have any questions on any of the above, please get in touch with the office: sally.phillips@wardwilliams.co.uk or call 01932 830664.