If I'm not mistaken it will appear on the left side tab (news etc.) when active.

No, it's in the referrals interface. Top left of the home screen, but not the side menu.

This is correct. 

There will be a red dot notification in Referral Program on the top left, then when you click it there will be a Recall Quests tab on the left hand side of the page. 

I dont see the red dot.  Do I have to be part of the referral program to qualify?

no, you would have to meet the specifications listed to have those pop up, requirements which can be found here: 

https://raid-support.plarium.com/hc/en-us/articles/360014658320-Guide-Referral-Program-Recall-Quests

Recall Quest is specific to returning users who haven't logged in for some time, rather than a normal part of the game for active players.

If I'm not mistaken it will appear on the left side tab (news etc.) when active.

Get it on technifiser 

Get out of here, spam link person!! Shoo!