What kind of information is included in an international background check?
How does an international background check differ from a domestic background check?
What are the challenges involved in conducting international background checks for remote employees?
An international background check is the process of verifying a candidate’s personal, professional, and legal history across one or more countries outside their home or work country.
International background checks can include employment history, education records, and any available criminal or legal records from other countries. Some countries restrict the sharing of certain information. Employers may also verify a candidate’s eligibility for work visa sponsorshipbefore making a job offer.
Domestic background checks focus primarily on the records where an employee resides, whereas international background checks involve verifying an employee's history in other countries. These checks typically take longer and are subject to varying regulations across different jurisdictions. Employers must navigate complex regulatory compliance, obtain special consent where required, and ensure adherence to both U.S. and local privacy laws.
Remote employees can introduce unique logistical and regulatory considerations for background checks, particularly when based in countries with limited access to local records or strict privacy laws. Time zone differences may affect coordination with local institutions, and candidates with international histories may have records spread across multiple jurisdictions.
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