Can you get a DBS check if you live abroad?

The DBS can offer guidance on criminal record checks in a variety of foreign countries. Any applicant who has lived outside of the UK for 6 months or more within the last 5 years will need to provide a police check from the country/countries previously resided in.

Can EU citizens get a DBS check?

As mentioned, DBS checks cannot be processed for EU citizens still living in their home country. If you’re an employer hoping to perform a background check on an overseas applicant, you will need to ask them to send you a police check from their home country.

Can you apply for a DBS without a national insurance number?

No, the two systems operate independently, and you don’t need a National Insurance number to get a check. However, your employer will ask you to go through the process of getting a number separately.

Can you apply for a DBS from outside the UK?

DBS cannot access criminal records held overseas, but it is possible to submit an application while the applicant is overseas. In a small number of cases, overseas criminal records are held on the Police National Computer (PNC) and these would be revealed as part of a criminal record check.

How do I get a CRB check abroad?

You’ll have to apply in the country or to the relevant embassy in the UK. Please read the guidance document if you have any queries. If you have any questions on applying for a criminal record check in the UK, please contact the Disclosure & Barring Service.

Can you do a DBS check from outside the UK?

DBS is unable to access criminal records held overseas, so a DBS check may not provide a complete view of an applicant’s criminal record, if they have lived outside of the UK. Employers should ensure that they have access to all of the information available to them, to make safer recruitment decisions.

Who can apply for a DBS check?

Individual DBS Checks Summary Individuals can apply for a Basic DBS Check as a self-employed individual or if your new role requires a DBS check. However, if you need a Standard or Enhanced check, self-employed individuals must go through their local authority or the company they will carry out the work for.

What documents do I need for a DBS check?

Basic DBS Check One document of identification, such as a passport or driving licence. One document that verifies your proof of address, which can be a utility bill, bank or credit card statement or driving licence (provided it shows your current address and has not been used as the ID document).

Who can do a standard DBS check?

Eligibility guide There is no eligibility requirement for a basic DBS check. However if you are considering asking a person to apply for a standard or enhanced DBS check, as an employer, you are legally responsible for making sure the job role is eligible.

What is the difference between a basic DBS and an enhanced DBS?

The differences between Basic, Standard and Enhanced DBS Checks: a summary. Basic disclosures can be requested by any employer as part of a judge of character. Standard disclosures are most common in the financial and legal industries, while Enhanced DBS Checks are pre-requisites in many education and healthcare roles.

Can I do my own DBS check?

Yes, you can apply for a DBS check as an individual. You do not need to be part of a company or organisation. Individuals cannot apply for an Enhanced DBS check or Standard DBS check however, because this can only be requested by eligible organisations or companies.