Why would I need an International Police Check?

If you’ve lived, worked, or studied overseas, you may be required to complete an International Police Check — sometimes referred to as an Overseas Police Clearance or International Criminal History Check — to confirm your background and good character.

This check provides employers, educational institutions, and professional regulators with official evidence of your criminal history (if any) from other countries where you have resided.

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🌏 Who Needs an International Police Check? #

You may need an International Police Check if you:

• Are new to Australia and seeking employment in a regulated industry
• Have spent more than six months abroad in the past 10 years
• Are applying for a position that requires international background screening, such as:
  • Teachers and education staff
  • Health and medical professionals (e.g. nurses, doctors, allied health)
  • Aged care and disability support workers
  • Childcare and early learning educators
  • International students undertaking placements or internships

⚠️ Note:
Some organisations have specific requirements for overseas police clearance certificates.
Always check your employer or registration body’s criteria before ordering a check.

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🧾 Why Employers and Organisations Request International Police Checks #

An International Police Check helps organisations:

• Verify a worker’s suitability and integrity when they’ve lived abroad
• Meet regulatory compliance obligations in sectors such as healthcare, childcare, or security
• Reduce risks associated with incomplete or unverified criminal history data
• Ensure consistent pre-employment screening across both domestic and overseas applicants

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💻 How Worker Checks makes International Police Checks Simple #

Worker Checks provides a secure, online process to obtain your international criminal history check quickly and confidently.

• 100% digital, mobile friendly process — apply, upload documents, and receive results online
• Meets international background screening standards recognised by global employers
• Secure document upload and delivery via your Worker Checks personal portal
• Suitable for employment, recruitment, and rental screening purposes

(Please note: our checks are not guaranteed for visa or immigration applications. For immigration-related clearances, contact the relevant authorities in your destination country.)

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📎 Important Information #

• Processing times can vary depending on the country.
• You’ll need identity documents (such as a passport and proof of address).
• Digital certificates are provided securely online once your check is complete.

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🔗 Learn More #

👉 Apply for an International Police Check ›

Still Need Help? #

We’re happy to assist you in understanding your results and next steps.