Why You Need an Australian Federal Police (AFP) Check and How to Get One from Overseas
5 minute read
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) provides different types of police checks tailored to various needs:
If you're outside Australia and need an Australian Federal Police (AFP) check, you're likely applying for a visa, citizenship, or an international job opportunity. The AFP check is a crucial document that verifies your criminal history (or lack thereof) and ensures compliance with Australian immigration and employment requirements.
In this blog, we'll cover:
- Why an AFP check is important
- Who needs one
- How to apply for an AFP check from outside Australia
- Why AuthNTick is your best option for fast and reliable AFP checks
Why Do You Need an AFP Check?
- An AFP National Police Check is often required for: Visa applications and renewals - Work visas, residency visas, spouse visas, and student visas
- Australian citizenship applications - Immigration authorities require a police clearance for background verification
- Employment purposes - Many Australian employers request an AFP check, especially in healthcare, education, or security sectors
- Overseas travel or legal processes - Some foreign governments require an AFP check for residency, adoption, or guardianship applications
Failing to provide an AFP check can delay visa approvals, job applications, and other important processes.
Who Needs an Australian Federal Police (AFP) Check?
An Australian Federal Police (AFP) National Police Check is required for various official purposes, including visa applications, employment, and legal matters. Below are the key groups of people who typically need one:
1. Visa Applicants (Immigration & Citizenship Purposes)
If you're applying for an Australian visa, permanent residency, or citizenship, you may be required to submit an AFP police check as part of the Department of Home Affairs’ background screening process. This applies to:
- Partner and Spouse Visa Applicants – To prove good character and suitability for Australian residency
- Permanent Residency & Citizenship Applicants – To confirm no serious criminal history
- Student & Work Visa Holders – Some visa subclasses may require a background check for approval or renewal
2. Individuals Seeking Employment in Regulated Sectors
Certain industries in Australia require strict background screening before hiring employees. Employers may request an AFP check for:
- Aged Care & Healthcare Workers – Nurses, doctors, and aged care workers must meet regulatory background screening requirements.
- Education & Childcare Workers – Teachers, childcare professionals, and school staff need police clearance to ensure child safety.
- Government & Security Jobs – Jobs in public service, law enforcement, or security roles require a national police check.
- Financial & Legal Sectors – Some employers in banking, finance, and legal fields require AFP checks for compliance purposes.
3. Australians Working or Living Overseas
If you are an Australian citizen or resident moving overseas for work, study, or long-term residency, some foreign governments may require an AFP check as part of their immigration or visa application process. This applies to:
How to Apply for an AFP Check from Outside Australia
An Australian Federal Police (AFP) National Police Check is required for various official purposes, including visa applications, employment, and legal matters. Below are the key groups of people who typically need one:
- Expats & Professionals Working Abroad – Some countries require proof of a clean criminal record before issuing work permits.
- Adoption & Guardianship Applicants – If adopting a child from another country, an AFP police check is often mandatory.
How to Apply for an AFP Check
Applying for an AFP check while overseas might seem complicated, but it’s a straightforward process with AuthNTick. Here’s how you can do it:
- We provide a fully online AFP police check application service.
- Complete the online form
- Make a secure payment
- Receive your AFP National Police Certificate
Why Choose AuthNTick for Your AFP Check?
- Fast & Easy Online Application – No need for paperwork or in-person visits.
- Secure & Reliable – Your data is encrypted and processed with care.
- Dedicated Support – Our customer service team is ready to assist with any questions.
- Trusted Provider – We are a reputable background check provider in Australia.
If you need an AFP check from outside Australia, don’t let distance delay your plans. AuthNTick simplifies the process, providing a fast, secure, and reliable way to get your Australian Federal Police Certificate.