Can UK immigration trace your work history?

The UK Immigration Service has access to various databases and information sources to verify an applicant's work history. While the extent of their ability to trace an individual's complete work history may vary, here are some methods they might use:

Electronic Visa System (EVS): The EVS is a database used by the UK government to process visa applications. When applying for a visa, applicants are required to provide details of their work history, including dates of employment, job titles, and employers' contact information. This information is stored in the EVS and can be accessed by immigration officers.

National Insurance Number (NI Number): The NI number is a unique identifier assigned to individuals who work in the UK. Employers are required to register their employees with the HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) and provide details of their employment, such as salary and working hours. This information is stored in the HMRC database and can be shared with the UK Immigration Service upon request.

Payslips and Bank Statements: Applicants may be required to provide payslips and bank statements as evidence of their work history. These documents can help verify employment details, such as salary, dates of employment, and employer's name.

Employer Verification: In certain cases, the UK Immigration Service may contact the employer directly to verify the applicant's work history. This is usually done when there are discrepancies or doubts about the information provided.

Third-party Databases: The UK Immigration Service may also access third-party databases, such as credit reference agencies or professional bodies, to verify employment details. These databases often have information on individuals' past employment, including job titles, employers, and salary ranges.

It's important to note that the UK Immigration Service may not have all the information about an individual's complete work history readily available. However, they have various tools and resources at their disposal to gather and verify this information as needed. Applicants are expected to provide accurate and complete details of their work history as part of the visa application process.