---
title: What is a right to work (RTW) check?
description: Right to Work checks are usually carried out when new employees start at an organisation, they confirm that the employee is legally allowed to work in the UK.
---

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# What is a right to work (RTW) check?

Right to Work checks are usually carried out when new employees start at an organisation, they confirm that the employee is legally allowed to work in the UK. Right to Work checks are carried out as a preventative measure, they ensure that employers are following all legislation to prevent illegal working.

Moreover, not only are carrying out Right to Work checks important in terms of legality, but they also prevent harsh fines which employers may face if they fail to carry out these checks correctly and employ an illegal worker.

For example, employers can face up to a £20,000 fine per illegal worker, or in some cases up to a 5-year prison sentence. To prevent this, it is best practice to carry out a virtual or face to face right to work check when a new employee starts at an organisation in order to prevent illegal working in the UK.

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