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I have lived overseas. Do I need an overseas criminal record check?

I'm a Tutor article: Find out when you need an overseas criminal record check, how to apply, and what documents you need to provide if you’ve lived overseas in the last 5 years.

If you have lived overseas in the last 5 years, you will need to provide an overseas criminal record check before you can become a tutor.

You’ll need to provide an overseas criminal record check if you have:

  • lived at a permanent address in the same country for more than 3 continuous months; and

  • lived there within the last 5 years.

If you have lived in more than one country for more than 3 continuous months during this period, you’ll need to provide an overseas criminal record check for each country.

Overseas criminal record checks are different in each country, so you’ll need to apply for them yourself.

What counts as living overseas?

For these checks, overseas means anywhere outside:

  • England

  • Wales

  • Scotland

  • Northern Ireland

  • the Channel Islands

  • the Isle of Man

Do I need an overseas check if I was under 18?

Yes. You’ll still need an overseas criminal record check if you lived overseas while you were under 18.

The only exception is if the country does not provide criminal record checks for people under 18. If this applies, you’ll need to provide evidence that a check is not available.

How do I apply for an overseas criminal record check?

The process is different in each country.

For official guidance on how to apply for a criminal record check in any country, use the UK Government’s country-by-country guide.

Select the country where you lived and follow the instructions provided.

You can also find more official information about criminal record check processes on the UK Government website.

Once you receive your overseas criminal record check, send a copy to our team for review.

Can MyTutor apply for my overseas criminal record check?

No. You’ll need to apply for the check yourself.

Each country has its own process for requesting criminal record checks, and MyTutor cannot complete these checks on your behalf.

Does my overseas criminal record check need to be in English?

Yes. You must provide your overseas criminal record check in English.

If your original document is in another language, you’ll need to provide an English translation.

We accept translations from:

  • your embassy or relevant authority; or

  • a professional translation agency.

We do not accept:

  • Google Translate or similar services; or

  • translations you have completed yourself.

Do I need an overseas check if I already have an Enhanced DBS check?

Yes, if you meet the requirements for an overseas criminal record check.

An Enhanced DBS check only covers criminal record information held in the relevant UK jurisdiction. It does not cover criminal record information from other countries where you have lived.

If you have lived overseas for more than 3 continuous months in the last 5 years, you’ll need to provide the relevant overseas criminal record check as well as your Enhanced DBS check.

This helps us complete the necessary background checks before you become a tutor.

Can I submit a digital copy of my overseas criminal record check?

Yes. We accept official overseas criminal record check documents in either digital or paper format.

The document must be issued by the relevant authority.

Where do I send my overseas criminal record check?

Send a copy of your overseas criminal record check to support@mytutor.co.uk.

Our team will review your document and let you know if we need anything else.

How long will my overseas criminal record check take to be reviewed?

Overseas criminal record checks can take longer to process, particularly when we receive a high number of requests.

We cannot provide a specific processing time.

We’ll keep you updated and get back to you as soon as possible.

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