When hiring, most HR managers and small business owners are familiar with background checks that include county criminal searches, statewide searches, and national criminal database searches. These tools provide excellent coverage within the United States — but what happens if your applicant lived abroad?
That’s where an International Criminal Search comes in.
An International Criminal Search checks available criminal record sources outside the United States. Just like county or statewide searches, the goal is to uncover any past convictions, charges, or criminal history that could impact a hiring decision. This search ensures you’re not missing crucial information about an applicant who has spent significant time living, working, or studying in another country.
How Does an International Criminal Search Work?
NCS works with trusted global partners to access official criminal record sources across many countries. While every country has its own record-keeping standards, turnaround times, and rules for access, NCS ensures searches are compliant, accurate, and timely.
The process is straightforward:
- Identify where the applicant lived internationally.
- Submit the International Criminal Search request for that country.
- Review the results alongside your domestic background check.
👉 For more details on coverage, contact Tina Harris at NCS to learn about the countries we support.
Why Domestic Searches Aren’t Enough
It’s important to note: standard domestic searches do not cover international records.
- A county criminal search only covers crimes in U.S. county courts.
- A statewide search only looks at records reported in U.S. state databases.
- A national criminal database search compiles many U.S. jurisdictions, but it does not extend overseas.
That means if an applicant committed a crime in Canada, the UK, or another country — and you don’t run an international search — you may never see that record.
When Should You Order One?
Consider an International Criminal Search if:
- The applicant lived or worked abroad for more than six months in the past 7 years.
- The applicant is an international student transitioning to U.S. employment.
- You’re hiring for a high-trust role (finance, childcare, healthcare, etc.) and need the most complete background possible.
👉 Read more about Why should I order an International Criminal Search?
Why Choose NCS?
At National Crime Search (NCS), we make it simple to add international searches to your background check package. We provide customizable solutions tailored to your needs, with coverage across multiple countries.
Our value:
Fast, compliant, and affordable background checks—powered by real people who care.
