Avoiding Discrimination in Right to Work Checks

June 30, 2026 · WOWERI

UK employers must check employees' right to work to avoid discrimination. Our guide helps you understand how to do it correctly.

Introduction

UK employers must check employees' right to work to avoid employing individuals who do not have the right to work in the country. However, this check must be carried out without discrimination.

What is Discrimination?

Discrimination is the unfair treatment of a person based on their race, color, nationality, gender, age, disability, or other characteristics.

How to Avoid Discrimination in Right to Work Checks?

To avoid discrimination in right to work checks, employers should follow these guidelines:

• Conduct right to work checks on all employees, regardless of their nationality or origin.
• Only use permitted documents to check right to work.
• Do not request additional documents from employees if they have already provided the necessary documents.
• Do not make assumptions about an employee's right to work based on their nationality or origin.

Conclusion

Right to work checks are an essential aspect of personnel management in the UK. However, they must be carried out without discrimination. By following our guidelines, employers can avoid discrimination and ensure fair treatment for all employees.

Source: gov.uk