How it works
From request to certificate
The application itself is made on nidirect, the official government service. We handle eligibility, verification and countersigning around it.
The process
Eligibility
The employer, or the self-employed applicant, tells us about the role. We confirm it is legally eligible and which level of check and barred list checks apply.PIN and instructions
We give the applicant our PIN for that level of check, the nidirect application link and the Applicant Information Leaflet. For organisations this follows the signed agreement. Self-employed applicants pay first.Online application
The applicant completes the AccessNI application in their own nidirect account and uploads two identity documents. On confirming the declaration, the application comes to our signatory automatically.Verification
Our signatory checks that the application exactly matches the identity documents, including all forenames and any previous surnames. If something is missing we add it or return the application to the applicant.Countersigning
Once satisfied, the signatory countersigns the application and submits it to AccessNI.Certificate
AccessNI issues a digital certificate to the applicant's nidirect account. For employer applications, we tell the employer it has been issued and whether it contains information.
If you're the applicant
- Use the link we send you to open the application on nidirect. Create a nidirect account, or log in if you already have one. You may be asked to upgrade it.
- nidirect verifies your current name, date of birth and address. You'll upload identity documents and take a selfie.
- Enter our PIN at step 1 of the application.
- Give every name you have used: all forenames, even ones you don't use, and every previous surname. Missing names can delay an application.
- Upload two documents from AccessNI's list of acceptable identity documents (opens in a new tab). Where you can, use your birth certificate and a document showing your current name and photograph.
- Confirm and date the declaration. Your application then comes to us.
Read the applicant information leaflet before you start.
Keep your nidirect login details. You'll need them to view and share your certificate.
Your identity documents
You upload them to nidirect, not to us. AccessNI destroys them 90 days after your certificate is issued. Please don't email identity documents to us.
Trouble with your nidirect account?
Contact nidirect on 0300 200 7868 or nida@nidirect.gov.uk.
How long it takes
Processing times are set by AccessNI and vary by level of check. Some applications are referred to the police, which takes longer. AccessNI publishes current turnaround times (opens in a new tab) every week.
Applicants can track their application (opens in a new tab) in their nidirect account.
Ready to start?
Tell us who needs a check and what the role involves.