Glossary
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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?

International Background Checks

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.

What kind of information is included in an international background check?

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.

How does an international background check differ from a domestic background check?

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.

What are the challenges involved in conducting international background checks for remote employees?

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.

This material has been prepared for informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, legal or tax advice. If you have any legal or tax questions regarding this content or related issues, then you should consult with your professional legal or tax advisor.

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