Overseas Criminal Record Checks and DBS Checks: What is the Difference

Background checks have become a common procedure in many aspects of daily life, including employment screening, visa applications, and volunteering opportunities. The most common types of background checks are Overseas Criminal Record Checks and DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks.

Despite having an identical objective of providing insight into an individual's criminal history, Overseas Police Checks and DBS checks differ significantly in terms of scope, purpose, and the information they provide. Furthermore, these checks are performed by different bodies, and the process for obtaining an Overseas Police Check differs from that for obtaining a DBS check.

What is Overseas Criminal Record Check?

Overseas Criminal Record Checks are essential in various international scenarios, including relocating from the United Kingdom to another country, applying for visas, and seeking overseas employment prospects. These checks entail accessing the Police National Computer (PNC) in the United Kingdom to collect an individual's criminal record information.

 

Here are the key features of Overseas Police Checks:

 

• Global Compliance: Overseas Criminal Record Checks are tailored to provide criminal record information to those seeking visas or employment outside of the United Kingdom. These checks are necessary for assuring compliance with other country's legal and regulatory obligations.


• Conviction Check: Overseas Police Checks are primarily concerned with criminal convictions, offering insight into an individual's previous criminal conduct that resulted in convictions. However, they may exclude information concerning occurrences that did not result in a conviction. This emphasis on criminal convictions enables organisations and immigration authorities to make informed decisions about visa approvals and employment opportunities.


• UK Focus: Overseas Criminal Record Checks exclusively gather criminal record data from the UK Police National Computer (PNC). They do not include obtaining information from any foreign police forces. While this restriction limits the scope of the checks to criminal records in the United Kingdom, it ensures a consistent and reliable source of information for analysing individuals' criminal history.

What are DBS Checks?

In contrast to overseas criminal record checks, DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks are only used in the United Kingdom. The Disclosure and Barring Service administers these checks, which allow access to criminal record information for individuals working in specified sectors or occupations, notably those that include interactions with children or vulnerable adults.

Here are the key features of DBS Checks:
 

• UK Compliance: DBS checks for employees are tailored for usage in the United Kingdom and are typically necessary for specific job tasks or positions, such as those in schools or healthcare settings. However, it is important to understand that not all roles require a DBS check, and the requirements vary based on the nature of the role and the sector in which it operates.


• Level-Based Checks: The DBS system provides three distinct levels of checks, each providing varying degrees of detail about an individual's criminal history. The type of check required is defined by the specific responsibilities of the role being undertaken. The three levels of checks are Basic, Standard, and Enhanced DBS checks, with each level providing progressively detailed information.


• Beyond Convictions: Depending on the level of the check, a DBS certificate may include a range of additional details beyond convictions. This may contain cautions, warnings, and other pertinent police records, giving employers a complete picture of an individual's background and behaviour.

How to Determine Which Check You Need?

The type of background check you require is mostly determined by the purpose of the check. If you are applying for opportunities outside the UK, such as employment or visas, you will most likely need an Overseas Criminal Record Check. These checks are primarily intended for providing criminal history information for international applications. On the other hand, if you want to work or volunteer in the United Kingdom, especially in sectors involving children or vulnerable persons, you will need a DBS check. These checks are required for individuals working in specific professions or sectors in the UK and are critical for protecting vulnerable groups and ensuring the integrity of these positions.

Still unsure which check you need - Overseas Criminal Record or DBS? Our expert team can help you determine the right fit based on your specific situation. Contact us today for a free consultation and ensure you have the necessary background check for your needs.