A background check is private screening done by a vetting company with your written consent: criminal record, identity, qualifications, credit or employment history.
Most visa applications ask for an official SAPS police clearance certificate, not a private background check. Background checks are mainly used by employers, recruiters and sponsors abroad.
Not every visa applicant needs this document. Whether you need it depends on the destination, visa type and your circumstances - check the official checklist first.
Tell us which checks you need and who asked for them.
Get Background Check QuotesTypes of Checks
| Check | What it shows | Typically used for |
|---|---|---|
| Criminal record (fingerprint-based) | Records on the SAPS database | Employers and recruiters |
| Identity verification | ID number and personal details match | Onboarding and fraud checks |
| Qualification verification | Degree or matric confirmed with the issuer | Jobs abroad, registration bodies |
| Credit check | Credit history, with consent | Finance roles |
| Employment history | Previous employers confirm dates and roles | Recruiters |
| Driver's licence | Licence validity | Driving roles |
Background Check Prices
| Service | Amount | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Criminal record check | R150 - R400 | Optional third-party |
| Qualification verification | R200 - R600 per qualification | Optional third-party |
| ID verification | R50 - R150 | Optional third-party |
| Credit check | R80 - R250 | Optional third-party |
| Combined screening package | R600 - R1,800 | Optional third-party |
| Official SAPS police clearance | R190 | Official government fee |
Fees may change and should be confirmed with the relevant government, embassy, consulate or authorised visa application provider before applying. Rand amounts are approximate conversions and assistance fees are indicative market ranges, not quotations.
Background Check or Police Clearance?
| Background check | Police clearance certificate | |
|---|---|---|
| Issued by | Private vetting company | SAPS Criminal Record Centre |
| Accepted for visas | Rarely | Usually, where a clearance is required |
| Speed | Often days | Usually weeks |
| Can be apostilled | Generally no | Yes, via DIRCO |
Your Rights
- Checks need your written consent under POPIA.
- You can ask for a copy of the result.
- Incorrect records should be disputed with the source, such as SAPS or the credit bureau.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a background check the same as a police clearance?
No. A police clearance is issued by SAPS and is the document most visa and immigration applications ask for.
How long does a background check take?
Many checks are completed within a few working days. Qualification checks can take longer.
Can someone run a check without my consent?
Screening companies should obtain your written consent before running checks.
What if a check shows an old conviction?
Some older convictions can be removed through criminal record expungement, if you qualify.
Requests sent through Visa Application go to independent providers who handle background check applications regularly.
Related Pages
Visa approval is solely at the discretion of the relevant immigration authority. Visa Application is not a government department, embassy, consulate or visa application centre, and no provider can guarantee approval, appointment availability or processing time.
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