A criminal background check in Russia, known as a “spravka o nalyichii ugolovnogo diela” or “certificate of no criminal record,” is an official document that certifies whether an individual has a criminal record in the country. This document is often required for various legal and administrative purposes, such as applying for a visa, immigration, work permits, or residency, as well as for employment, particularly in positions that require a high level of trust or security clearance.
If you’re a foreigner living or working in Russia, or if you need to obtain a criminal background check for some other reason, it’s important to understand the process and requirements for requesting one.
This guide provides a step-by-step overview of how to request a criminal background check in Russia.
1. When Do You Need a Criminal Background Check in Russia?
A criminal background check may be required in the following situations:
- Employment: Employers, especially those hiring for sensitive or high-security jobs, may require a criminal background check as part of the hiring process.
- Visa Applications: Some visa types, particularly for long-term stays (e.g., work visas, residence permits), may require a criminal background check as part of the application process.
- Immigration or Naturalization: Foreign nationals applying for Russian citizenship or permanent residency may need to provide a criminal background check from the Russian authorities.
- Police Clearance for Travel or Legal Matters: You may need a criminal background check for legal purposes such as applying for a foreign visa or when you are involved in certain legal matters in your home country or Russia.
2. How to Request a Criminal Background Check in Russia
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
To request a criminal background check in Russia, you will need to provide several documents, including:
- Passport: Your valid passport, or a copy of your passport if you are a foreigner.
- Migration Card or Registration: Your migration card and proof of your registration (if applicable). This is especially relevant for foreigners who are in Russia on a visa or residence permit.
- Application Form: A completed application form for the criminal background check. This form is usually available at the local police station or on the official website of the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs (MVD).
- Photographs: Some regions may require passport-sized photos (usually two).
- Fee Payment: Payment of any applicable fees for the background check. The amount varies by region.
Note: If you are applying as a foreigner, the Russian authorities may require additional documents, such as your visa or residence permit, and potentially a translation of your documents into Russian.
Step 2: Choose the Appropriate Authority
The request for a criminal background check in Russia can generally be made through the following entities:
- Local Police Department (MVD): The most common place to request a background check is at the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MVD) or your local police department. Foreign nationals can go to the nearest police station in their area of residence to make the request.
- Federal Migration Service (FMS): For foreigners, the FMS may also be involved in the process, especially when the check is required for immigration or residency purposes.
- Online Portal: Some Russian regions allow applications for criminal background checks via the online government portal, Gosuslugi, which can be a convenient option if you want to apply without visiting the police station in person.
Step 3: Submit the Application
Once you have the necessary documents, go to the appropriate authority (local police station or MVD office) and submit the application for the criminal background check. If you’re applying online, follow the instructions on the Gosuslugi portal or the local website.
You will need to fill out an application form and provide your documents for verification. The police or migration office will process your request, and in some cases, you may be required to attend an interview or provide additional details.
Step 4: Pay the Fees
There is typically a fee for obtaining a criminal background check in Russia, which can vary depending on the region and the processing time. Make sure to ask about the fee and payment methods at the time of submission. Some local police departments and government services may accept payments online, while others may require in-person payments at a bank or payment kiosk.
Step 5: Wait for Processing
After submitting your application and paying the fees, the police or authorities will process your request. Processing times can vary, but typically, a criminal background check in Russia takes anywhere from 5 to 30 business days, depending on the location and whether there are any complications with the request.
If you applied through Gosuslugi or another online service, you may be able to track the status of your request online.
Step 6: Receive Your Criminal Background Check Certificate
Once the background check has been completed, you will receive a certificate confirming whether you have a criminal record in Russia. This certificate will include the following information:
- Confirmation of whether or not you have any criminal convictions in Russia.
- The dates of any convictions, if applicable.
- Any other relevant information regarding criminal activity, if applicable.
The certificate is typically issued in Russian, but you can request an official translation if you need it for use in another country.
3. What to Do If You Have a Criminal Record in Russia
If the background check reveals that you have a criminal record in Russia, the authorities may provide details of the convictions, including the specific crimes and dates. If you were convicted in Russia, you may need to follow additional steps to resolve any legal issues, including:
- Appealing the Conviction: If you believe the criminal record is incorrect or outdated, you can file an appeal with the Russian courts or relevant authorities.
- Clearing the Record: If your criminal record is resolved (e.g., after serving a sentence or completing any required rehabilitation), it may be possible to have your record cleared or expunged in some cases, depending on the nature of the offense.
4. Foreign Nationals Applying for a Russian Criminal Background Check
Foreign Nationals Who Have Lived in Russia
If you are a foreigner who has lived in Russia for an extended period and you are requesting a criminal background check from the Russian authorities, you will need to provide:
- Proof of Residency: Evidence of your legal stay in Russia, such as a temporary or permanent residence permit.
- Visa Details: If applicable, your visa details (if you are currently living in Russia under a visa).
Foreign Nationals Who Have Not Lived in Russia
If you are a foreigner who has not lived in Russia but need a background check for a visa or immigration process, you may be required to submit additional documentation, such as proof of your nationality and reasons for requiring the background check (e.g., a work visa or residence permit).
Translating the Report
The criminal background check certificate will be in Russian. If you need it for official use outside of Russia, you may need to have it translated by an accredited translator and possibly notarized.
5. Other Considerations for Foreign Nationals
- Language Barrier: If you do not speak Russian, it may be beneficial to bring a translator or Russian-speaking individual to assist you during the application process, particularly when filling out forms or communicating with officials.
- Legal Advice: If you encounter difficulties during the process or have legal concerns related to the background check, consider consulting a lawyer who specializes in Russian immigration law or criminal law.
6. Where to Find More Information
You can find more details about the criminal background check process in Russia by visiting:
- The official website of the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MVD).
- The Gosuslugi government portal for online services.
- Local police department websites for specific regional instructions.
Conclusion
Requesting a criminal background check in Russia is an important process for foreigners needing documentation for visa applications, employment, or other legal matters. By gathering the required documents, visiting the proper authorities, and understanding the steps involved, you can successfully obtain your criminal background check. Always be aware of potential language barriers and consider seeking professional help if necessary to ensure the process goes smoothly.
