NORTH Ayrshire Council have warned that taxi and private hire drivers must prove that they have the right to work in the UK when renewing their licences, under new immigration legislation from the UK Government.

The new regime comes into force on December 1 under the Immigration Act 2016, and will also apply to people seeking a licence for the first time.

Existing licence holders must follow the rules even if they have held a licence for years or were born in the UK.

British citizens require a current passport in order to prove their status, while nationals of European single market countries require to provide a passport or National Identity Card.  Other applicants must provide a visa or residence permit confirming their immigration status.

A North Ayrshire Council spokesperson said: “The law applies to everyone, so we are not allowed to miss anyone out of the checks. However, if you were born here and have always lived here then it will be easy to prove your status.

“If your licence is due to expire soon, you should apply for renewal now. Do not leave it till the last day.”

For more information, visit https://www.gov.uk/contact-ukvi.