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From 1 September 2025, AccessNI will stop issuing paper disclosure certificates. All criminal record checks processed through AccessNI will now be delivered digitally only.
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What’s changing?
Up until now, applicants could choose between receiving their disclosure certificate by post or accessing it online. After September, all certificates – even those containing criminal history information – will only be issued digitally. Paper certificates dated after 1 September will no longer be valid.
Applicants will log into their nidirect account to view their disclosure, and can share it securely with an employer or organisation via a unique tokenised link. Employers will be able to view the certificate online, and applicants retain full control over who they share it with and when.
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Why the change?
AccessNI has outlined several key benefits of going fully digital:
- Faster hiring decisions – certificates are available instantly once processed, cutting out postal delays.
- Stronger security – no risk of loss, mis-delivery, or forgery; certificates are viewed only via a secure token.
- Applicant control – individuals choose who to share their certificate with, and can re-share it multiple times.
- Greener and more efficient – eliminates the costs and waste of printing, paper and postage.
- Improved accuracy – digital certificates can be updated if errors are found, removing previous versions.
In short: employers get information more quickly, candidates get more control, and the process is more secure.
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What it means for employers
From September, employers should stop requesting or accepting paper disclosure certificates. Instead, ensure your recruitment processes are updated to accept digital certificates via AccessNI’s secure token system.
It’s also important to remind hiring teams that screenshots or printouts of certificates are not valid and should not be accepted. Only certificates accessed via the secure AccessNI link should be relied upon.
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How Rightcheck makes it even easier
While AccessNI’s move to digital is a big step forward, employers still face the challenge of juggling multiple compliance checks – from Right to Work, to criminal records, to identity verification and references.
That’s where Rightcheck comes in. As a Responsible and Registered Body for AccessNI, our platform brings everything into one streamlined system:
- Right to Work checks – Home Office & DSIT certified, with liveness and document validation built in.
- Criminal record checks – fast, and now fully aligned with AccessNI’s digital certificate process.
- Identity and background screening – from referencing to social media to regulated rechecks.
- A unique candidate app – delivering a seamless, modern candidate journey that keeps applicants engaged and informed.
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With Rightcheck, you don’t just get compliance — you get confidence, speed, and a better experience for candidates and hiring teams alike.
👉 Ready to simplify your screening and Right to Work checks in one platform?
Book a demo today and see how Rightcheck helps you hire faster, stay compliant, and create a candidate journey that stands out.
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Note: This article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult with legal professionals for specific guidance.
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