Excerpt from the debit register
In this section we explain everything you need to know about Extracts from the charge register and why they usually need to be stamped with an Apostille
What is an extract from the criminal records register?
An extract from the criminal record is a document issued by the Police Authority and contains information about whether you have previously been convicted or reasonably suspected of a crime. It is common that you need to show an extract from the criminal records extract in connection with applying for a job in the school system, healthcare or the like. It is also common that you need to show this extract to foreign authorities, banks or universities.
Is an Apostille stamp required on my criminal records extract?
Foreign authorities, schools, banks and so on usually require you to be able to present an extract from the criminal records extract and that they must be provided with an Apostille stamp. In order to get an Apostille stamp on your extract, you must contact a Notary Public who can help you with this. The police authority cannot issue an Apostille, only the Notary Public can do this.
How do I order an extract?
You can order an extract from the criminal records extract via the police’s website.
What is the criminal records register?
In short, a criminal records extract is a register that collects information about criminal convictions, approved penalty orders and administrative fines that have been registered against you. The register contains your name, address details and information about the offenses you have been convicted of.
According to law, the Police is obliged to keep a criminal records extract and the register is also used by other authorities such as the Customs, courts and the Coast Guard. The manner in which the register is kept is regulated in the Act (1998:629) on criminal records extracts .
How to get an Apostille on your criminal records extract
Order the extract from the Swedish Police Authority and choose the version intended for use abroad, so that it carries the Police Authority’s stamp and signature in original. The Police cannot issue an Apostille; in Sweden only a Notary Public can. Bring or send the original extract to us, and we attach the Apostille that makes it valid in all Hague Convention countries.
When is it needed?
- Work and visa applications abroad, where employers or migration authorities require a clean criminal record
- Residence permits, citizenship applications and adoptions in other countries
- Foreign professional licenses, for example in healthcare or education
Visit our drop-in in Stockholm or handle the whole matter by post or from abroad. Does the receiving country require the extract in another language? We also arrange authorised translation before the Apostille is attached.
Frequently asked questions
Can the Police issue an Apostille on the extract?
No. Since 2005 only Notaries Public may issue Apostilles in Sweden. Order the extract from the Police, then bring it to a Notary Public.
Does the extract have to be unopened?
The Notary Public needs the original document with the Police Authority’s stamp and signature. Check with the receiving party whether they have additional requirements, for example a sealed envelope.