Australian Federal Police criminal history checks for federal government roles, visa applications, and security clearances.
Overview
An AFP (Australian Federal Police) check is a criminal history check issued directly by the AFP, as distinct from ACIC national checks used for general employment screening. AFP checks are required for specific federal purposes: Commonwealth government positions, security clearances (AGSVA, ASIO, ASIS), visa applications to Home Affairs, federal court matters, and roles requiring NV1/NV2 clearances.
The key distinction: AFP checks are issued under the AFP's own authority and are accepted by the Department of Home Affairs for visa purposes. ACIC national checks are used for private sector and state government employment. If you're unsure which check is required, Refchecks will advise based on the role or visa type. For general employment police checks, see national police check.
What's Included
AFP checks are issued directly by the Australian Federal Police, the only accepted format for Commonwealth government roles and most visa applications.
AFP criminal history certificates are the required format for Australian visa applications including partner, skilled worker, and permanent residency.
Required for Australian Government security clearances at baseline, NV1, and NV2 levels through the Australian Government Security Vetting Agency (AGSVA).
AFP processes checks through their national criminal records system. Results are delivered securely and stored in your Refchecks compliance dashboard.
Process
Provide the candidate's personal details and declare the purpose of the check (visa, government employment, etc). The AFP requires a stated purpose on the application.
The Australian Federal Police searches their national criminal history database and processes the certificate under their authority.
You receive the official AFP criminal history certificate, suitable for visa submission to Home Affairs or government employment screening.
Turnaround & Pricing
Turnaround Time
Within 48 hours
AFP Police Check
$79
Excludes GST. Government and registry fees included. Some checks take longer if a manual review is required.
FAQ
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