If you’re applying to study, work, or rent in the UK, you’ll eventually need a Share Code — a simple online way to prove your immigration status. It’s one of the key documents universities, employers and landlords use to confirm your Right to Work, Right to Rent, or eligibility for Student Finance.
For mature students planning to start university, the Share Code is also part of the college enrollment process. In this guide, we’ll show you exactly what it is, when you need it, and how to get or check your code — step by step.
What is a Share Code?
If you live in the UK and have an immigration status (pre-settled, settled, or a visa), at some point you’ll be asked for a Share Code.
Whether you’re applying to university, renting a flat, or starting a job, this code is your fast-track way to prove your legal right to stay in the country.
When do you need a Share Code?
A Share Code is a 9-character code (letters and numbers) generated online on the UKVI website.
With it, you can prove:
- your immigration status (pre-settled, settled, or visa),
- your Right to Work,
- your Right to Rent,
- or your eligibility to study or access certain benefits.
Think of it as an “access code” you give to institutions to verify your status directly in the system.
Share Code for university enrolment
Universities ask for it to verify your UK residency status and your eligibility for Student Finance.
➡️ These codes usually start with the letter S.
Share Code for employment: Right to Work
Employers must confirm your legal right to work.
Instead of bringing paper copies, you just give them your Share Code — and they’ll verify it in 2 minutes.
➡️ These codes usually start with W.
Share Code for renting: Right to Rent
If you’re renting a home, the landlord or agency may request your Share Code to confirm your legal right to live in the UK.
➡️ These codes usually start with R.
How to get a Share Code
The process is simple and 100% online:
Go to the official site (or search “get a share code UK”)
Visit the “View and Prove your immigration status” page and log into your UKVI account.
Identity check
You’ll need to provide the document used to apply for your status (passport, ID card, or BRP).
View your status
The system will show your immigration status (pre-settled, settled, or visa type).
Generate your Share Code
Choose the purpose (work, rent, studies), and the system will generate a 9-character code you can share.
How to check a Share Code
The person or institution receiving the code goes to the “Check a share code” portal, enters the code + your date of birth, and sees your legal rights.
Validity & what shows up
- The code is valid for 90 days from creation.
- It only displays essential info: name, date of birth, type of status, and your rights (work, rent, study).
- It does not show sensitive data like your full passport number or personal history.
Common errors & how to fix them
- Code expired → Just generate a new one (Get a Share Code).
- Name/document mismatch → Double-check that your name matches your ID exactly; update it in your UKVI account if needed.
- Status not found → Make sure you’re using the same document you registered with (try passport vs. ID).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use the same code for work and renting?
Not usually. You generate the code based on purpose — Right to Work / Right to Rent / Other.
Is “sher cod” or “ser cod” the same as Share Code?
Yes — these are common spelling mistakes, but they all refer to the same thing: Share Code.
I have (pre-)settled status. Do I still need a Share Code?
Yes — it’s the fastest way to prove your immigration status. Learn more about [settled vs pre-settled status].
I’m applying to university — is it mandatory?
Some universities do request it as proof of residency. Always check the list of required documents.
