When applying for international professional registration, especially for New Zealand (APC), background verification is a crucial requirement. One of the most important steps in this process is the International Criminal History Check (ICHC).
What is ICHC (International Criminal History Check)?
The International Criminal History Check (ICHC) refers to the process of verifying your background from the countries where you have stayed for more than one year during the last seven years.
During the IQN application, you would have answered a question about the countries you have lived in for more than one year within the past seven years. The countries you listed in that section are the ones for which ICHC is mandatory.
It is very important to ensure that the information provided in your IQN application is accurate, as the ICHC process is directly based on those details.
What is the ICHC Process?
The ICHC process is used to check whether you have any criminal records in the countries where you have lived during the past seven years.
Key points about the process:
- It is not the same as a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC)
- It is a fully online verification process
- It is conducted through an authorized platform
This process is mandatory for obtaining New Zealand registration (APC). Without completing ICHC, your application will not move forward. All verification is carried out through the official Fit2Work portal, ensuring a secure and standardized process.
What is the Fit2Work Portal?
Fit2Work is one of the largest and most reliable providers of:
- Police checks
- Background screening
- Identity verification services
It is an Australia-based company known for its efficiency and credibility in handling international verification processes. The entire ICHC procedure is completed through this portal.
How Does the ICHC Process Work?
The ICHC process follows a systematic approach:
Step 1: Submission of Country Details
The countries you listed in your IQN application are considered for verification.
Step 2: Process Initiation via Fit2Work
The verification process is initiated through the Fit2Work portal.
Step 3: Verification Through Local Agents
Fit2Work has authorized agents in each country, and the police checks are conducted through these agents.
Step 4: Compilation of Results
The collected information is reviewed and compiled into a final report.
This ensures that the process is accurate, reliable, and internationally accepted.
Portal Payment
To proceed with the ICHC process, payment must be made through the Fit2Work portal.
Cost Details:
- Fee: 163 AUD per country
Note: The total cost will depend on the number of countries included in your verification.
Processing Time
After completing the payment and submitting all required details:
Timeline:
- Estimated Processing Time: Approximately 1 month
However, the processing time may vary depending on:
- The number of countries involved
- The response time of local authorities
- Verification procedures in each country
Important Considerations
The International Criminal History Check (ICHC) is an essential step in the New Zealand registration process, ensuring that applicants meet the required legal and professional standards.
Although the process may seem detailed, it is straightforward when you understand the requirements. By providing accurate information in your IQN application, completing the Fit2Work process on time, and ensuring proper payment, you can avoid unnecessary delays.
Completing it carefully and correctly will help you move forward smoothly in your journey toward New Zealand registration (APC).
Common Concerns
- Do I need PCC if I'm doing ICHC? No, ICHC is a separate online process and replaces the traditional police clearance requirement.
- What if I made an error in my IQN country listing? Contact the nursing council immediately to clarify. Discrepancies can cause delays.
- Can I start this before IQN approval? No, ICHC can only be initiated after your IQN application is received and processed to a certain stage.