Apostille
Korean Criminal Record Apostille (범죄경력증명서)
A South Korea criminal background check (범죄경력회보서 / 범죄경력증명서), issued by the police, needs an apostille from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs before it is valid abroad. Foreign employers and immigration offices use it to confirm an applicant has no criminal history in Korea. Your chosen agent coordinates the police-issued record, the MOFA apostille, and delivery — with certified translation available in the same request.
When This Service Is Relevant
- Applying for a work or teaching visa abroad (e.g., English-teaching positions)
- Permanent residency or immigration applications that require police clearance
- Professional licensing or registration in a foreign country
- Adoption, fostering, or childcare roles requiring a background check
- Government or security-sensitive employment overseas
What to Prepare
- Korean criminal background check (범죄경력회보서) — issued for the destination country's purpose
- Passport copy and Korean ID (or ARC) of the applicant
- Destination country and the requesting authority's name
- Whether the authority requires a 'purpose of use' stated on the record — confirm in advance
Process Notes
- The record is issued by the police (경찰청); the apostille is then applied by MOFA. Your agent manages both steps.
- Some authorities require the record to state a specific purpose (e.g., overseas employment) — issuing it for the wrong purpose can cause rejection.
- The apostille certifies authenticity only; a certified translation is usually required as well.
- Background checks have a short validity window for many authorities (often 3–6 months) — apply for the apostille promptly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this the same as a South Korea police clearance certificate?
Yes. "Criminal record apostille" and "police clearance certificate apostille" refer to the same document — the 범죄경력회보서 issued by the Korean National Police Agency, apostilled by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Foreign authorities use either name interchangeably.
Who issues the Korean criminal record?
The Korean National Police Agency (경찰청) issues the 범죄경력회보서. After issuance, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs applies the apostille. Your agent can coordinate both so you do not have to visit each office.
Does the apostille include a translation?
No. The apostille only confirms the police record is genuine. Most foreign authorities also need a certified translation, which your agent can add to the same order.
Can someone get this on my behalf if I am abroad?
In many cases, yes — with proper authorization. Contact your chosen agent with your situation and destination, and they will confirm what documentation is required.
How long is the apostilled record valid?
Validity is set by the receiving authority, commonly 3–6 months from issuance. It's best to complete the apostille close to your submission date.
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