Welsh boy

Hello, I've just been offered a hospital job in Dubai but unfortunately I have a police record, and want to find out if this will stop me moving there. I received a police caution for assault in 2012. The charges were subsequently dropped and there was no conviction.

My prospective employer does not know this as yet, because it was never asked and I've not had to fill out any forms as yet. I was headhunted for this job. I will obviously make a full disclosure but am worried. Will I need to disclose my police record when the work permit/residence visa is applied for? Thanks

mikelincs

A police caution in the UK is, in most countries, classed as guilty, as basically you wree saying, OK I did that, but just don't want to go to court. I suspect that it may cause you some problems down the line.

iggle

Not once in my visa process was I asked about criminal history. I am quite sure its against UK data protection laws to even give that information out.

If that's the case should I of told my company about my speeding fine, where I was going 78mph on the m6?

Welsh boy

Thanks - I did actually admit to it because it was the truth, and the circumstances exceptional. That is why the charges were dropped. With regard to this job offer I don't know if I should talk to them about it at the outset so that it does not seem that I'm trying to hide it at a later date (and risk losing the job opportunity) or to tell them when/if asked (and risk being looked upon unfavourably for that). I don't wish to paint myself in a particular light when I am obviously trying to secure a good post.

Welsh boy

I know visa applications in the US, Oz etc will ask for a police certificate which will have details of all cautions, convictions etc. Does this not apply to the UAE then?

scrubbedexpat141

Data Protection classes criminal records as sensitive data which means it has to be kept in a certain (very secure) way.

Companies can ask for CRB checks and disclosure of records though.

Millhouse

What's the job? If a school teacher you may need a good conduct certificate. Otherwise your cheeky headbutt will be OK.

mikelincs

As can individuals, and unless you provide them for any country you have lived in for more than 6 months you certiainly are not going to get an immigrant visa for USA Canada, Australia and New Zealand and others, in fact you have to disclose them even if you just want to visit the USA, there is currently a huge thread about this on the US immigration and visa forum, and it shows that those that apply for a visit visa if they aren't allowed to use ESTA are having to wait 7 or 8 months IF they are recommended for a waiver. Things like parking and speeding fines are NOT included, it's crimes that involve 'Moral Turpitude' which are usually the more serious crimes AND any drug related ones.

Millhouse

Interesting, but highly irrelevant.

Welsh boy

It's medical - I will certainly require a professional good conduct certificate but as this incident occurred in very personal circumstances I am hoping, as it is in the UK, hospital HR department will want to know but will not stop you getting a job. Professionally I have good standing and skills.

This is a difficult topic to discuss as I don't want to be judged as some kind of awful person but I'm glad you guys are helping me find out!

iggle

haha

I doubt any one cares on this forum, of course we will judge you - but more for a laugh. We'd rather be helpful than difficult. My personal experience was (unless someone did it behind my back) I wasn't asked for criminal records

scrubbedexpat141

Can you ask them subtly?

Like;

'If successful, please can you tell me the complete list of documents I will need to have sorted and prepared for the role, such as; Certificates Attested? References? Birth / Marriage Certificates etc?'

I'd be tempted to lump it in the list but also tempted to leave it out and see what they say you'll need.

Welsh boy

Thanks, it's something that would make you laugh but I can't post it here - maybe over a drink when I eventually get to Dubai!

Welsh boy

Scamp, that's a great idea - I'll ask them to send me a complete list and see what they say. Thanks!

iggle

I wouldn't bring up criminal record, let them tell you its required.