What background checks are required?
Every Camp Leaders participant needs a valid police check (sometimes called a criminal record check or background check, depending on your country). This is a requirement for working with children and for entering the US on a J-1 visa.
Your police check must be in date from July 1st of the year you are applying.
What type of police check do I need?
The specific check required depends on which country you are applying from. The name, process, and cost vary by country. Log in to your Camp Leaders profile and visit the documents section for detailed instructions specific to your location.
How long do background checks take?
Processing times vary by country and by the type of check. In some countries, results come back within a few days. In others, it can take several weeks. Starting early is the best way to avoid delays in your application.
Your Camp Leaders profile will give you guidance on the expected processing time for your country.
How do I upload my police check?
Upload your completed police check in the documents section of your Camp Leaders profile. The file needs to be in PDF or JPEG format, under 2MB. If the document has multiple pages, combine them into a single file before uploading.
What if there is something on my record?
Child and participant safety is the priority. If you have something on your record and are unsure whether it will affect your application, speak to a Camp Leaders team member before paying a deposit or booking your interview. The team is there to help, not to judge, and it's always better to ask early.
The final decision on criminal background is at the discretion of your visa sponsor, and they can decline an application based on any level of offence. This is out of Camp Leaders' control.
Being upfront and honest is always the best approach. Every case is different, so reach out to the team and they'll advise you on your options.