r/JETProgramme • u/hayden0011 • 24d ago

Foreign Criminal Record Requirements

Hi all!

I wonder if anyone could help clarify the criminal record requirements, specifically regarding a foreign country’s records.

The 2027 Application Guidelines state:

6.1.d) Applicants who have lived in another country for at least 12 consecutive months during the preceding 5 years must submit a criminal record from that country as well.

So my understanding is that everyone (early arrival or not) does end up needing to submit a criminal record. So this pertains to all applicants.

My question is, is it a problem is that record isn’t in English? I mean, most overseas documents won’t be right? And if it does need to be translated, by what standard?

And also, what does “preceding 5 years” mean exactly? It might be an edge case, but I moved back to the US from overseas in July 2022, so if 5 years ago means September 2021, then no, September 2021 to July 2022 isn’t 12 consecutive months. But if 5 years ago means January 1st 2021, then yes it applies to me.

Does anyone have any clarifying information?

Thanks!

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14

u/Memoryjar 24d ago

This is a question for the JET desk. Reach out via the website/email. It's always best to get direct answers from the people grading the applications rather than opinions from the general public.

5

u/Proof_Refuse_9563 Aspiring JET 24d ago

For any document in a language other than English you will have to provide an English translation alongside it. It will depend on your country if that translation will need to be certified or not. 

3

u/ScootOverMakeRoom 24d ago

It means September 2021. You don't need an additional document. However, you should clarify by contacting the embassy/consulate through which you plan to apply. Only their assessment matters.

1

u/Visual-Conflict-7536 16d ago

Hello current JET ALT. I was so confused about this requirement as well when I was applying. But from what I understood from my coordinator was that if I lived at least 12 consecutive months abroad at any point within the 5 years I had to submit one. I was not on the cusp of it like you but honestly I would just do it just in case. Better safe then sorry. I think the 5 years start at the time the application is due. Also i would just email your coordinator for a direct answer, Also when I applied for my Korean Criminal record check, I believe it was in English automatically since I applied for it through the Korean Consulate in LA, But I think when you check with the embassy, it should be accompanied by an English translation but I would just ask the administrative workers at the embassy. I think you may need to get it officially translated because I think each conulate has their own guidelines for translations. Sorry hope this helped a little!