Right to work CV UK
Mention right to work only when it helps.
A UK employer must check right to work before employment, but your CV should not expose private document details. Use a short, accurate line only when it removes uncertainty for the role.
Safety rule
Never put a share code on a public CV.
A share code is for an employer check, not for a PDF that may be uploaded to job boards, recruiters, email chains or databases.
When to include it
Right to work is a hiring check, not a CV headline.
GOV.UK says employers must check that a job applicant is allowed to work in the UK before employing them. The CV does not need to perform that check. It only needs to reduce avoidable uncertainty where right to work or sponsorship could affect screening.
Include it when it removes doubt
Useful if you are applying internationally, have a non-UK education history, or the advert asks about sponsorship.
Keep it short
One clear line is enough. The CV is not the place for passport numbers, share codes or long immigration explanations.
Be accurate
Only state what is true now. If permission is time-limited or role-limited, do not imply unrestricted work rights.
Wording examples
Short CV lines for common situations.
These are not legal advice. Use wording only if it is accurate for your current position, and check official guidance if you are not sure what you can prove.
British or Irish citizen
Right to work in the UK.
No need to add passport details or nationality unless it is relevant and you choose to.
No sponsorship needed
Right to work in the UK. No visa sponsorship required.
Use only if accurate. This can help where employers screen for sponsorship requirements.
Limited permission
Right to work in the UK; details available for employer checks.
Avoid oversharing dates or document numbers on the CV. Be ready to explain accurately during hiring.
Applying from overseas
Eligible to work in the UK from [month/year], subject to employer right to work checks.
Use cautious wording if your right to work starts later or depends on a process.
Do not include
Keep identity and immigration details off the CV.
GOV.UK provides official services for proving and checking right to work. Your CV should not become an identity document. Keep the PDF focused on suitability for the role.
Research checked
Based on official UK right to work guidance.
Last checked 13 June 2026. This page uses GOV.UK guidance on employer right to work checks, GOV.UK share code checking, GOV.UK proof of right to work, and Citizens Advice guidance on proving your right to work. It is CV-writing guidance, not immigration legal advice.
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