UK workers now need official police clearance

(CNS): From the start of next year, affidavits will no longer be accepted from United Kingdom citizens in lieu of police clearance certificates as a result of the new comprehensive records system in Britain, which has speeded up the police clearance certificates process. The Association of Chief Police Officers, the UK’s Criminal Records Office, coordinates and manages all such information and changes have improved links between criminal records and biometric information databases. This updated process allows applicants to obtain a certificate within two weeks or even two days for a premium service,compared to more than three months in the past.

The new certificates are designed with security technology and they will feature a photograph of the applicant, unique reference and unique serial numbers and other features.

For many years now the Cayman Island’s Department of Immigration accepted notarized ‘Affidavits of Character’, which simply attested that applicants had no criminal convictions. Although not an ideal arrangement it was introduced because it took three months or more to get a formal police clearance.

“The change from our perspective is necessary to ensure consistency and to improve our ability to confirm the character of the individuals who wish to enter, work and reside in our Islands” said Chief Immigration Officer Linda Evans. 

Anyone interested in accessing this service should visit www.acro.police.uk.