A UK DBS check or CRB checks are often required for individuals that wish to travel abroad or work within the private household industry. On this page, we will take a closer look at what a UK DBS check is and also help you understand how we can help you obtain yours.
Important: We can not obtain DBS/CRB or ACRO Certificates as this must be applied for by the holder, they can request them online and have them sent directly to our office for the apostille to be applied.
What exactly is a DBS check?
A DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check, also referred to as a CRB (Criminal Records Bureau) check is often required for job applicants that wish to work with vulnerable groups, including children, and individuals that wish to apply for an immigration process. The DBS check comes available in three different tiers and are similar to the Certificado de Antecedentes Penales. These tiers include:
- Basic DBS – this is the lowest level of disclosure and includes a Police National Computer check of any current criminal convictions. These checks are often used to support immigration applications, volunteering opportunities, and for vetting prospective tenants.
- Standard DBS – anyone employed in an occupation that involves children, vulnerable adults, and the elderly will need a valid Standard DBS to prove that they are of good character and have no criminal record.
- Enhanced DBS – this is the highest level of disclosure required for positions that might involve caring for, training, supervising or being in sole charge of children and vulnerable adults. These checks show offences including those of sexual, violent, and drug-related nature.
How do you apply for a DBS check?
If you are applying for a new job, it is very likely that a recruitment agency can apply for a basic DBS check on your behalf as part of the application process. Individuals can also apply for their DBS checks, although they can only apply for the most basic version. Should you require a standard or enhanced check, an organization must do so on your behalf.
Generally speaking, the application process takes roughly four weeks before your certificate is issued, but during times, the DBS has a backlog of applications which can cause a delay in the process. Enhanced checks normally take a few weeks longer than basic and standard DBS checks.
What is the validity of a DBS check?
Although this check has no official expiry date, it is highly recommended that these checks be renewed at least once every three years. Individuals that wish to immigrate will have to renew their checks at least three months before starting the immigration application process in order to ensure the documents are valid for use abroad.
