Identity verification guidance will be reformed for DBS checks, safeguarding hiring processes with diligent manual checks into applicants’ history. Organisations can continue to follow the old DBS guidance until November 2025, when the three-route DBS process will be unified for UK and non-UK nationals.
Administrative burdens will also be reduced with documents no longer having to present the applicant’s current address and more ways permitted to view documents to comply with requirements. Broadening the range of supporting documents for applications, the DBS will accept Group 1 documents including a valid e-Visa, BRP or ARC to validate someone’s identity under Route 1. Route 2 can only be used if it is impossible to process the application through Route 1.
Designated as Group 2b documents, applicants can still use HMRC self-assessment or tax demand letters and a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) to enable seamless DBS checks. The validity of these documents is still essential for approved DBS checks as document examiners will search for signs of tampering.
The National Document Fraud Unit (NDFU) in the Home Office has also published guidance on examining identity documents to detect basic forgeries.
Applicants who are unable to provide the required documents will then be asked to give their consent to have their fingerprints taken at a police station.
