Right to Work Checks & Name Change in the UK
How to prove your Right to Work to an employer after changing your legal name by Deed Poll, Marriage, or Gender Transition.
Home Office Compliant
Aligned with 2026 UK Employer Right to Work Code of Practice.
Deed Poll Linking Document
Bridges identity gap between your old passport and new legal name.
HR & Payroll Ready
Updates HMRC PAYE, National Insurance, and workplace pension.
Key Rule for Employers & Employees
When an employee changes their name, the employer is legally required to verify the legal link between the old name and new name. Presenting an original Deed Poll alongside your existing identity document (or Home Office Share Code) satisfies all UK civil penalty statutory excuse rules.
What is a Right to Work Check?
A Right to Work check is a statutory verification process that every UK employer must perform before hiring a worker, and when an existing worker changes their legal identity details. Employers check valid passports, biometric residence permits (BRPs), or digital Home Office Share Codes to confirm legal permission to work in the UK.
How to Prove Your Right to Work After a Name Change
If your passport or official identity document is still in your former name, or if you have recently changed your legal name, you can prove your right to work by taking the following steps:
- Provide Original Identity Document: Present your current passport, birth certificate, or Home Office Share Code.
- Present Legal Deed Poll Certificate: Present your original Deed Poll (or Marriage Certificate / Statutory Declaration) showing your name change from your previous name to your new legal name.
- HR Copy & Record Retention: Your employer must inspect the original document, make an unalterable copy (paper or digital PDF), and record the date the check was conducted.
💡 Digital Share Codes & Home Office eVisa System
If you use the UK Home Office online Right to Work service, update your name on your UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account first. You can generate a 9-character Share Code online at gov.uk/prove-right-to-work for your employer to verify instantly.
What Employers Must Check (HR Compliance Checklist)
To maintain a legal statutory excuse against civil penalties, employers must verify:
- The Deed Poll is signed and witnessed by an independent adult.
- The names on the Deed Poll match the former name on identity documents and the new name on employment contracts.
- There are no obvious discrepancies in dates or photographs.
- HR records (P45, P60, PAYE, and Pension) are updated to match the Deed Poll.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work under my new name before my passport is updated?
Yes. Under UK law, your legal name changes as soon as you execute your Deed Poll. You can start working and sign contracts in your new name immediately by presenting your Deed Poll alongside your existing passport.
Does an employer need an enrolled deed poll for Right to Work?
No. Home Office Right to Work guidance explicitly confirms that unenrolled deed polls are fully valid legal proof of name change.
How do I notify HMRC of my name change for payroll?
Notify HMRC via your Personal Tax Account online or by post. Once HMRC updates your National Insurance record, your payroll details will automatically align with your employer.
Need a Legal Deed Poll for Your Employer?
Order your official, HR and Home Office accepted legal Deed Poll today with fast dispatch and guaranteed acceptance across the UK.
Apply For Adult Deed Poll (£14.99)