Can you apply for a DBS check if you’re outside of the UK?

Whether you’re applying for a job back in the UK, volunteering remotely, or dealing with any number of licensing authorities while out of the country, it’s a common enough question: Can I apply for a DBS check while I’m overseas?

The short answer? Yes, in many cases you can. But the process isn’t quite as straightforward as when you live in the UK, and it will depend on a few key factors.

Who might need a DBS check while abroad?

Potential situations where a job applicant may need to apply for a DBS check while abroad include cases where:

• A UK national is working or living overseas
• Someone is returning to the UK for a role that requires vetting
• A UK national is applying for a visa that needs proof of good character
• Someone is working for a UK employer remotely, in a regulated capacity

Basically, if the organisation requesting the check is based in England or Wales, and the role would legally require a DBS check if done in person, then yes, it’s likely that the check is required.

Can you apply directly?

Here’s where it gets a little tricky. You can’t apply for a standard or enhanced DBS check as an individual, even inside the UK. These checks need to go through a registered organisation or umbrella body. That doesn’t change if you’re overseas. What does change, however, is how identity verification is handled.

Normally in the UK, ID documents are checked in person. But if you’re living abroad, the process often involves:

• Getting your documents certified (usually by a solicitor, notary public, or embassy official)
• Posting or scanning them to the employer or DBS-registered body
• Sometimes, providing fingerprints (though this is rare)

It’s all a question of confirming that you are who you say you are, even if you’re several thousand miles away.

What about Basic DBS checks?

A basic DBS check is a bit easier. Unlike standard and enhanced checks, anyone can apply for one – including individuals. And yes, you can apply online from outside the UK. In fact, many expats, digital nomads, and remote workers go this route when asked for a criminal record check by a UK company.

There are a range of umbrella organisations, such as Personnel Checks, that handle DBS checks and accept overseas addresses. Just be prepared to provide certified ID documents, and potentially pay a small processing fee.

Things to watch out for

There are a few potential issues to watch out for when applying for your check, including:

• Check if your role actually requires a DBS check
• Check whether the requesting organisation is eligible to apply for the check in question, especially with standard and enhanced checks.
• Allow more time than usual – overseas checks can take longer, due to the added verification steps.

So, to round up, can you apply for a DBS check from outside the UK? In many cases, yes, but how you go about doing so will depend on the type of check, and a range of other specific factors. If you’re unsure, it’s worth contacting a background check specialist for further guidance on the matter.