Templates
Onboarding Checklist Template – free for Word, PDF and Excel free & workplace-ready
Free · Version 2026.10
Guide new hires from contract to the end of probation, with due dates and progress. The free onboarding checklist template works in Excel, Google Sheets, Word and as a fillable PDF and covers the United Kingdom, Ireland and the United States.
- 100% free
- Workplace-ready
- Excel & Google Sheets
Onboard with Ordio
Save 5 hours per week on HR admin
Digital employee files
Documents stored securely and available anytime
Automated leave management
Manage leave requests, balances, and approvals digitally
Checklists & tasks
Structure onboarding, training, and tasks
GDPR-aligned
Data stored securely and compliantly
With Ordio:
See how Ordio streamlines HR admin
See digital employee files speed up processes · No obligation · 15 minutes
More free templates
Discover more Excel templates for planning, time tracking and HR.
Frequently asked questions about Onboarding Checklist
What is an onboarding checklist and why do you need a template?
An **onboarding checklist** is a structured list so nothing important is missed when someone joins, from contract paperwork to first-week introductions. A consistent **onboarding checklist template** saves time and gives every new hire the same experience.
Why is an onboarding checklist important?
With well done onboarding, new employees stay longer in the company and reach their full productivity faster. A checklist ensures a uniform approach, clear responsibilities and comprehensible documentation. You don't forget steps and save time with every new employee.
What is an onboarding checklist?
An onboarding checklist is a structured tool that allows you to ensure that no important step will be forgotten when introducing new employees. It organizes tasks, deadlines and responsible persons - from signing the contract to full incorporation. The Ordio template helps you standardize the process.
Is the onboarding checklist template free, and does it work in Excel and Google Sheets?
Yes. You download it free of charge after a short form and get an Excel file (.xlsx, Excel 2016 or Microsoft 365) and a Google Sheets copy, plus a fillable PDF and a Word document. Excel and Sheets contain the same 7 sheets: Instructions, Employee, Checklist, Summary, Checks, Legal basis, Ordio.
Which countries does the template cover?
The template covers the United Kingdom, Ireland and the United States. The country notes in the file set out the rules for each: United Kingdom: Steps follow UK rules: written statement from day one, right-to-work check before the start date, RTI reporting to HMRC, pension auto-enrolment. Ireland: PPSN, register the employment with Revenue, statement of 5 core terms within 5 days and full terms within 1 month, Safety Statement induction. United States: Form I-9 by day 3, Form W-4, state new-hire reporting (usually within 20 days), state-specific notices.
What does the template check automatically?
The “Checks” sheet shows ✔ or ⚠ for: All “Before day one” tasks done; No overdue tasks; Start date entered; Onboarding fully completed.