Discover how to find specialized international background check services with our comprehensive guide on global screening solutions.

But be patient with the time it may take to get answers to your questions. No international screening provider will have all of the answers to questions about 12+ search types in over 200 countries. International screening screening providers need to research in house and also liaise with their sources and vendors to get answers sometimes. This can take time, especially if multiple time zones are involved and holidays come into play. Good screening providers have solid knowledge of their most commonly ordered international searches. And they rely on their partners to help fill in the gaps

Look for providers that are transparent about the local sources and the processes for obtaining the requested searches. Be wary of providers who hide behind the "it's proprietary information" answer. International screening requires all entities to work together to understand how searches are conducted, what the sources are, and to continuously research changing requirements and restrictions. Providers that have an easy to access mechanism to view available international searches, sources, and ordering requirements will make it easier to determine what international searches to select and to understand whether your organization can and should access them for your specific screening purpose.

How can you find background check services that specialize in international screenings?

When hiring globally, it's crucial to conduct thorough background checks to ensure you're making informed decisions. International screenings can be complex due to varying laws and practices across countries. To find specialized background check services, you need to understand the nuances of international laws, data protection regulations, and the specific requirements for different regions. With the right approach, you can locate services that will help you vet international candidates effectively and maintain compliance with global standards.

1 Global Expertise

To start, you should look for a background check provider with proven global expertise. This means they have a deep understanding of international laws and practices related to employment screening. They should be knowledgeable about the legal requirements for accessing and using personal information in different countries, as well as the cultural nuances that might affect the screening process. A provider with a network of local experts can navigate these complexities and ensure accurate and compliant background checks.

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Iain Murray

Vice President of Business Development at Triton
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Tapping into local subject matter experts is key. Even better if a provider has an in-house team to support your program. This can help ensure consistency and timely support.

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Steven Brownstein

Owner, The Background Investigator
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Obtaining Court Records and Sending Information across Borders - GDPR questioning I was called before the Macau Office for Personal Data Protection to testify why and what Straightline International was doing with Macau court records, which for all purposes was for pre-employment screening. The questioning basically covered the issues of Controller, Processor, and Contractor. They learned how I obtained the information and where I sent it (out of Macao). It was determined that Straightline International was neither the controller nor the processor but the contractor. It was further decided that since the court records were public and available to anyone that I needn't had registered with the Privacy Commission and to not do so again.

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Kerstin Bagus

Sharing my experience to help screening companies take the pain out of international background screening.
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Also be sure to address options for legitimizing cross border data transfer. Ask the provider how they facility the legal basis of cross border data transfer in key regimes such as GDPR. And what options does the provider offer for this with their customers.

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2 Compliance Focus

Compliance is a critical aspect when conducting international background checks. You need a service that not only understands international regulations but is also up-to-date with the latest changes. This includes familiarity with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in Europe, the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) in the United States, and other relevant privacy laws. A service that prioritizes compliance will help protect your business from legal risks associated with international hiring.

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3 Broad Coverage

Coverage is key when selecting an international background check service. Look for a provider that offers extensive geographic coverage and can perform checks in the countries where you are hiring. They should be able to handle verifications of education, employment history, criminal records, and other relevant background information across a wide range of jurisdictions. This broad coverage ensures that no matter where your candidates are located, you can obtain comprehensive screening results.

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Kerstin Bagus

Sharing my experience to help screening companies take the pain out of international background screening.
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Look for providers that are transparent about the local sources and the processes for obtaining the requested searches. Be wary of providers who hide behind the "it's proprietary information" answer. International screening requires all entities to work together to understand how searches are conducted, what the sources are, and to continuously research changing requirements and restrictions. Providers that have an easy to access mechanism to view available international searches, sources, and ordering requirements will make it easier to determine what international searches to select and to understand whether your organization can and should access them for your specific screening purpose.

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Iain Murray

Vice President of Business Development at Triton
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Extensive international coverage and support are nice, especially for employment and education verifications. Where Criminal Record Checks are concerned, many countries have different rules and processes around consent, depth of search and what can be reported on. If a screening provider offers a one size fits all international check, be skeptical. It may search ‘thousands of databases’ globally, but may not be a comprehensive search that reports on everything you’d expect.

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4 Technological Edge

In today's digital world, technology plays a significant role in background checks. A service that leverages advanced technology can streamline the screening process and provide more accurate results. This includes using online databases, electronic fingerprinting, and secure platforms for submitting and receiving information. A tech-savvy provider will offer efficient and reliable services, making it easier for you to manage international screenings.

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5 Customer Support

Customer support is an often overlooked but essential factor when choosing a background check service. You want a provider that offers strong customer support to guide you through the complexities of international screenings. This support should be available across different time zones and in multiple languages if necessary. Good customer support ensures that you can get help whenever you need it and that your questions are answered promptly.

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Kerstin Bagus

Sharing my experience to help screening companies take the pain out of international background screening.
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But be patient with the time it may take to get answers to your questions. No international screening provider will have all of the answers to questions about 12+ search types in over 200 countries. International screening screening providers need to research in house and also liaise with their sources and vendors to get answers sometimes. This can take time, especially if multiple time zones are involved and holidays come into play. Good screening providers have solid knowledge of their most commonly ordered international searches. And they rely on their partners to help fill in the gaps

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6 Tailored Solutions

Finally, the best international background check service for your business will offer tailored solutions. Every organization has unique needs, so a one-size-fits-all approach may not work. A service that can customize their offerings to fit your specific requirements, such as industry-specific checks or multi-country searches, will be most beneficial. Tailored solutions mean that your screenings are as effective and relevant as possible.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Iain Murray

Vice President of Business Development at Triton
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A great question to ask a prospective screening vendor is whether they have a team locally to support your program in each region. Many will speak to coverage in >190 countries, but few have the local support and expertise to truly offer global support.

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How can you find background check services that specialize in international screenings?

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2

3

4

5

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1 Global Expertise

2 Compliance Focus

3 Broad Coverage

4 Technological Edge

5 Customer Support

6 Tailored Solutions

7 Here’s what else to consider

Business Services

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How can you find background check services that specialize in international screenings?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Global Expertise

2 Compliance Focus

3 Broad Coverage

4 Technological Edge

5 Customer Support

6 Tailored Solutions

7 Here’s what else to consider

Business Services

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