If candidates apply for jobs where safeguarding is a consideration, they must apply for a DBS check online.
DBS checks are conducted to verify a person’s suitability for the role, ensuring they are safe to work with children and vulnerable adults.
The scope of the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as the Criminal Records Bureau) does not extend beyond the UK’s shores. That said, what if a candidate arriving into the UK for work already has evidence of a clean criminal history from their country of origin? That’s what this guide will explore.
That said, what if a candidate arriving into the UK for work already has evidence of a clean criminal history from their country of origin? That’s what this guide will explore including international DBS check alternatives and their relevance when hiring globally.
Should You Complete a DBS Check for an Applicant Living Abroad?
Tracking and checking applicants' criminal records for jobs working with children and vulnerable adults is a common practice worldwide. DBS checks are vital for ensuring that vulnerable people coming into contact with others are kept safe and protected.
In the UK, we rely on DBS checks in England and Wales, the PVG system in Scotland, and AccessNI in Northern Ireland. These criminal record checking services are all designed to ensure that individuals entrusted with vulnerable people are safe and trustworthy.
But if the applicant has lived outside the UK for an extended period or is still based abroad, an additional step is needed a DBS check from abroad may not suffice. Instead, employers must request an international DBS equivalent from the candidate’s previous countries of residence.
If you're wondering about a DBS check for overseas applicants, it's essential to understand that the UK DBS cannot access foreign criminal records. Therefore, employers must seek documents from international authorities.
What Are the International Alternatives to a DBS Check?
The Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) primarily has access to UK police records. Therefore, if someone is arriving in the UK to perform a role considered a regulated activity (i.e., if their job requires a Standard or Enhanced DBS Check), it’s essential to obtain an equivalent international DBS check.
When employing an applicant based outside of the UK or who has lived abroad for an extended period, it’s crucial to obtain DBS check international alternatives from the relevant countries. Not doing so can have serious implications.
Here are some common international DBS equivalents:
1) France - Casier Judiciaire
In France, the organisation responsible for logging criminal records is the Casier Judiciare. The applicant can contact them for an “extract from the criminal records” (translated to “Extrait du Casier Judiciaire”). This extract can only be obtained by the applicant; it will show an employer their eligibility based on their criminal record and is valid for 12 months after being released to the applicant.
2) Germany - Führungszeugnis
The relevant organisation in Germany is the Führungszeugnis, which translates to “criminal record” but is known colloquially as the “police certificate of good conduct”. If this certificate is to show to an employer, it is known as a “private certificate of good conduct” and will cost the applicant €13 to obtain.
This is a suitable document for an overseas DBS check when screening candidates from Germany.
3) Italy - Procura della Repubblica
Italy issues criminal records through the Procura della Repubblica (Prosecutor’s Office). Their process involves a €3.92 fee plus €16 in stamp duty per two pages. These certificates are valid for six months and serve as a reliable DBS check from abroad equivalent.
4) Spain - Certificado de Antecedentes Penales
In Spain, the Ministerio de Justicia provides a Certificado de Antecedentes Penales (criminal record certificate) for €3.86. However, for roles involving minors, employers should also request the Certificado de Delitos de Naturaleza Sexual. This is essential when performing a thorough international DBS check on applicants who lived in Spain.
5) Portugal - Certificado do Registo Criminal
Portugal’s Certificado do Registo Criminal is their standard criminal record certificate, available for €5, plus €3.25 if mailed internationally. These certificates are valid for only 3 months, making timely application critical when vetting potential staff through a DBS check for overseas applicants.
Summary: Do Employers Need to Complete Both UK and International Checks?
Yes, when an applicant has lived abroad for significant periods, a DBS check international process should be followed in addition to the standard UK DBS check. This ensures employers comply with safeguarding protocols while assessing the full background of international candidates.
Organisations such as Online DBS Checks can support the international DBS process by advising on which country-specific certificates are necessary and how long they remain valid.
Remember: hiring someone without the appropriate DBS check for overseas applicants or international criminal record certificate could expose your organisation to legal or reputational risks—especially in education, healthcare, and care services.
