> ## Documentation Index > Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://talent.docs.mercor.com/llms.txt > Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further. # Background Check > Mercor’s background check process ensures every contractor meets the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and compliance through thorough global identity, credential, and criminal history verification. **Mercor background check requirements** Ensuring integrity and excellence across our global talent network. At Mercor, trust and professionalism are at the core of every engagement. Because our contractors partner with top-tier customers across many fields, including engineering, medicine, law, and investment banking, we conduct comprehensive background checks to help ensure the integrity, expertise, and reliability of every professional in our network. Our goal is simple: to protect both customers and contractors by maintaining the highest global standards for ethical and professional conduct. ### **1. Professional identity and education verification** We begin by confirming that each candidate’s professional and academic background is accurate and verifiable. Our checks typically include: * **Identity verification** (legal name, date of birth, and government-issued ID). * **Education and degree verification** through accredited institutions. * **Employment history confirmation**, ensuring listed roles and dates align with verifiable records. * **Professional license or certification verification**, where applicable (for example: legal bar admission, FINRA registration, or engineering certification). This helps ensure that every Mercor contractor presents their credentials honestly and meets the standards our clients expect. ### **2. Criminal history** Mercor conducts criminal background and regulatory checks designed to protect both our customers and the broader professional community.  Depending on your location and area, these may include: * Criminal record checks (local, national, and, if applicable, international databases). * Regulatory compliance checks for roles in finance and legal services, including sanctions lists (OFAC, SEC, FCA, etc.) and professional disciplinary databases. * Civil litigation checks for patterns of fraud, malpractice, or other conduct relevant to professional reliability. * Global watchlist screenings for any disqualifying or high-risk flags (e.g., terrorism, money laundering). Certain serious offences, such as fraud, embezzlement, insider trading, violent crimes, or professional misconduct, may result in disqualification from the Mercor network. * Local regulations may require individual assessment, including consideration of rehabilitation, time elapsed since the offence, or evidence of good character. * The criteria may differ depending on your location and the role you are applying for. ### **3.  How the process works** Once you’re matched or begin onboarding: * You’ll receive a secure background check link from our third-party screening provider. * You’ll be asked to provide basic identifying information and consent to the background check. * Most checks are completed within 5-7 business days for Certn. For Zinc, turnaround times vary by the country where the verification is conducted. You can find the most up-to-date average processing times for each country on Zinc’s official turnaround time page: [https://zincwork.com/turnaround-times/criminal](https://zincwork.com/turnaround-times/criminal) * You’ll be notified once your screening is complete. * In situations where additional documents are required, please keep an eye on your email to make sure the background check is processed quickly. * Once your check is in progress with Zinc or Certn, Mercor cannot expedite processing. For status updates or timeline questions, contact your provider directly. If any discrepancies arise, you’ll have the opportunity to review or dispute the results directly with our background check provider. To check your background check provider, please refer to the [FAQ](https://talent.docs.mercor.com/policies/background-check#faq). If your check requires country-specific documentation or steps, find your provider below: Zinc provides detailed, country-specific criminal background check guidance on their help center. Click to view requirements for your country. Expand your country below to view the check type, how to apply, and required documents. **How to Apply** * **Citizens:** Obtain a Bulletin no. 3 from the local police station or online at the [Ministère de la Justice website](https://www.mjustice.dz/fr/). * **Foreigners:** Obtain a Bulletin no. 3 from the local police station or the Ministry of Justice website. Proof of residency is also required. If you are an Algerian national no longer living in Algeria, you may be able to obtain the certificate online. **Required Documents** Candidate must apply in-country. **Apply Online:** [https://www.mjustice.dz/fr/](https://www.mjustice.dz/fr/) **Check Type** Public source risk database search covering Global Government Sanctions, terrorist watch lists, Global Media, and Politically Exposed Persons (PEPs). **How to Apply** Present your valid passport and the applicable fees at: Criminal Records Office Police Headquarters American Road St. Johns, Antigua Tel: 268-462-0125 **Required Documents** * Copy of birth certificate * List of places and dates of residence in Antigua and Barbuda * Two passport-type photographs * Full set of fingerprints taken by a recognized police authority **Check Type** Criminal record check performed directly with the Bureau of Criminal Records, searching the applicant's criminal records through the collection of a criminal certificate. Results include any serious criminal records except those expunged under rehabilitation laws. **How to Apply** Apply for a Police Clearance Certificate in person at the Regional Court where you are registered, or online at [https://crr-external.mjs.bg/](https://crr-external.mjs.bg/) (a driver's license is required for online applications). For Sofia residents, apply at your local office. More details: [https://srs.justice.bg/bg/14007](https://srs.justice.bg/bg/14007) Additional information: [Bulgarian Ministry of Justice](https://www.justice.government.bg/) **Required Documents** * Identity document * Birth certificate * Power of attorney or certificate of inheritor (when requesting on behalf of another person) * Legal proof of name change, if applicable * Applicable fees **Apply Online:** [https://crr-external.mjs.bg/](https://crr-external.mjs.bg/) **Check Type** Criminal record check searching accessible results held by the Criminal Register. Results include any serious criminal records except those expunged under rehabilitation laws. **How to Apply** Apply at any local or municipal authority office or directly at the Criminal Register office in Prague. Citizens with a recognized electronic signature may apply online through the electronic mailroom of the Criminal Register. **Required Documents** * Full name (current and original) * ID number * Date and place of birth * District * Parents' names (including mother's maiden name) * Address * Passport or ID card **Check Type** Criminal Certificate service via the Ministry of Justice. **How to Apply** Apply online at the [Demande d'extrait de casier judiciaire (bulletin n°3) — Casier judiciaire national — Ministère de la Justice](https://casier-judiciaire.justice.gouv.fr/). After processing, the French Authorities will issue and send your French Criminal Certificate directly. You may choose an online or paper copy. Once obtained, upload the document to the secure Certn link provided to you. **Check Type** Criminal record check involving applicant participation with nationwide coverage. Verification is performed directly with the Federal Office of Justice (Bundesamt für Justiz). Results reveal any serious or recent criminal records except those expunged under rehabilitation laws. **How to Apply** Apply for a certificate of conduct (Führungszeugnis) online, by post, or in person at your local residents' registration authority (Einwohnermeldebehörde) or via [www.fuehrungszeugnis.bund.de](https://www.fuehrungszeugnis.bund.de). For applicants applying from abroad: [Instructions here](https://www.bundesjustizamt.de/EN/Topics/FederalCentralCriminalRegister/CertificateofConduct/CertificateofConduct_node.html) To apply online, you need either a German identity card (eID) or German Residence Permit with an activated online ID function and a smartphone with NFC and the AusweisApp2 installed. Once obtained, upload your certificate via the secure Certn link provided. **Required Documents** * German identity card (eID), or * German Residence Permit with activated online ID function and AusweisApp2 **Apply Online:** [www.fuehrungszeugnis.bund.de](https://www.fuehrungszeugnis.bund.de) **Check Type** Criminal record check with nationwide coverage. Verification is performed directly with the Division of Criminal Records under the Ministry of Justice. Results include any serious or recent criminal records except those expunged under rehabilitation laws. **How to Apply** Apply at any Citizen Service Centre in Greece or by calling 1502 (within Greece only). **Required Documents** * Completed application form * Copy of passport **Check Type** Criminal record check searching the Secretaría de la Unidad de Antecedentes Penales for criminal records. **How to Apply** Apply in person for a Constancia de Carencia de Antecedentes Penales at the Bureau of Criminal Background (Unidad de Antecedentes Penales) of the Supreme Court of Justice: Supreme Court of Justice Bureau of Criminal Background 6 Ave. "A" 9-23 zona 9, Guatemala City Tel: 2248-7365 **Required Documents** * Original and photocopy of your Documento Personal de Identificación (DPI) * Original Boleto de Ornato * Applicable fees **Apply Online:** [https://pnc.gob.gt/](https://pnc.gob.gt/) **Check Type** Criminal record check searching accessible results held by the Administrative and Electronic Public Services Central Office (KEKKH). Results include any serious criminal records except those expunged under rehabilitation laws. **How to Apply** You can apply in one of three ways: 1. **In person** at the Customer Service Centre of the Criminal Records Authority: Közigazgatási és Elektronikus Közszolgáltatások Központi Hivatala, KEKKH Ügyfélszolgálat, 1133 Budapest, Visegrádi utca 110-112 2. **By mail** — send your application form and payment to: Közigazgatási és Elektronikus Közszolgáltatások Központi Hivatala 1475 Budapest, Pf. 172. 3. **Online** — if already registered with the Customer Service Centre and you hold a recognized electronic signature. When completing the application form, under section III select "No" (Nem), and under section V check boxes "B", "C", and "D". **Required Documents** * Applicable fees * Completed application form (available at all post offices) * Postal order (if applying by mail) **Check Type** Nationwide search processed through the District Courts of Iceland (Reykjavik, West Iceland, Northwest Iceland, Northeast Iceland, East Iceland, and Sudurlands). **How to Apply** For the digital record, you must have an Icelandic electronic ID and a kennitala (ID number). Without an electronic ID, you can apply in person at any office of Sýslumaður (District Commissioner). **Apply Online:** [https://island.is/en/criminal-record](https://island.is/en/criminal-record) **Check Type** Public source risk database search covering Global Government Sanctions, terrorist watch lists, Global Media, and Politically Exposed Persons (PEPs). **How to Apply** Apply in person or ask a representative (friend, relative, or colleague in Kuwait) with power of attorney to apply on your behalf at: Ministry of the Interior General Department for Criminal Evidence Department of Identification and Automated Search Farwaniya-Dhajeej area Airport Road 55, opposite Kuwait Airways main building Tel: +965 2 434-6101 Fax: +965 2 434-5790 **Required Documents** * 1 photograph (4×6 cm) * Copy of passport and ID card * Certn request letter (provided by Certn) **Check Type** Criminal record check with nationwide coverage. Verification performed directly with the Service du Casier judiciaire. Results include any serious or recent criminal records except those expunged under rehabilitation laws. **How to Apply** The Service du Casier judiciaire (PdJ) only accepts applications for a Bulletin 3 from the individual themselves. You can order online. **Required Documents** * Copy of ID * Proof of nationality * ID and passport (for non-Luxembourg nationals) **Apply Online:** [http://www.guichet.public.lu/citoyens/fr/citoyennete/certificat-casier-judiciaire/casier-judiciaire/extrait-casier-judiciaire/index.html](http://www.guichet.public.lu/citoyens/fr/citoyennete/certificat-casier-judiciaire/casier-judiciaire/extrait-casier-judiciaire/index.html) **Check Type** Public source risk database search covering Global Government Sanctions, terrorist watch lists, Global Media, and Politically Exposed Persons (PEPs). **How to Apply** Send a request in writing to: Palais de Justice de Monaco Greffe Général 5, Rue Colonel Bellano de Castro 98000 Monaco Tel: (377) 98.98.88.11 Email: [greffegeneral@justice.mc](mailto:greffegeneral@justice.mc) **Required Documents** * Parents' full names, including mother's maiden name * Official identity document * Applicable fees * Non-residents: include dates of residence in Monaco **More Information:** [Monaco public services](https://en.service-public-particuliers.gouv.mc/Justice/Legal-documents-and-services/Parquet-general/Criminal-record) **Check Type** Public source risk database search covering Global Government Sanctions, terrorist watch lists, Global Media, and Politically Exposed Persons (PEPs). **How to Apply** Mongolian nationals must apply at local police authorities. **Required Documents** * Original Mongolian identification card **Check Type** Criminal record check with national coverage performed directly with the Casier Judiciaire. Results include any serious criminal records except those expunged under rehabilitation laws. **How to Apply** * **Moroccan citizens:** Obtain a fiche anthropométrique from your local police station using your national identity card. You may have a representative apply on your behalf with your national ID. * **Non-citizens:** Obtain a Bulletin no. 3 from the Service central des casiers judiciaires at Place de la Mamounia in Rabat. **Required Documents** Moroccan citizens: * National ID card * Applicable fees Non-citizens: * National identity card or photocopies of passport and birth certificate * Information about your stay, employment, and residence in Morocco * Applicable fees **Apply Online:** [https://casierjudiciaire.justice.gov.ma/](https://casierjudiciaire.justice.gov.ma/) **Check Type** Public source risk database search covering Global Government Sanctions, terrorist watch lists, Global Media, and Politically Exposed Persons (PEPs). **How to Apply** Present the required documents and fees at: Namibian Police Criminal Records Centre Private Bag 12024 Ausspanplatz Windhoek 9000, Namibia Tel: 264-220296/7/8 **Required Documents** * ID card * Date of birth * Full set of fingerprints taken by a recognized police authority * Applicable fees **Check Type** Criminal record check via the Norway Police, with results issued via criminal certificate. **How to Apply** The fastest way is to apply online at [https://www.politiet.no/en/english/police-certificate-of-conduct/police-certificate-of-conduct---apply-online/](https://www.politiet.no/en/english/police-certificate-of-conduct/police-certificate-of-conduct---apply-online/). You must log in with your own ID (e.g., BankID or MinID). If unable to apply digitally, fill out the paper application form and mail it with proof of identity and a purpose confirmation form from your employer: [Apply by post](https://www.politiet.no/en/english/police-certificate-of-conduct/police-certificate-of-conduct--apply-by-post/) Digital certificates are typically received within a few hours. Postal certificates take 10–14 days domestically, and longer internationally. **How to Apply** Provide the following documents to Certn. Print all forms in BLOCK LETTERS using black or blue ink only. Each page must be on a separate sheet of paper. Cross-outs and blank-outs are not acceptable. Signatures must be handwritten — electronic signatures are not accepted. **Required Documents** * Completed Letter of Authority (provided by Certn) — clear, bright scan required * PESEL number (for Polish citizens) or passport number (for non-citizens) * Both forms must be hand-signed You will upload documents back to Certn via a secure link provided to you by email. **Check Type** Criminal record check with national coverage performed directly with the Administration of the General Directorate of Justice. Results include any serious criminal records except those expunged under rehabilitation laws. **How to Apply** * **In person:** Present a valid identity card or passport with applicable fees to the Central Registry of the Civil and Criminal Identification Centre in major cities (e.g., Lisbon, Coimbra, Porto). In smaller regions (e.g., Azores, Madeira), apply at the Judicial Delegation or local court. * **Online:** [https://registocriminal.justica.gov.pt/?request\_locale=en](https://registocriminal.justica.gov.pt/?request_locale=en) **Required Documents** * Current residence in Portugal * In person: ID card or passport * Online: Full name and Civil Identification number **Apply Online:** [https://registocriminal.justica.gov.pt/](https://registocriminal.justica.gov.pt/?request_locale=en) **Check Type** Criminal record check including a court record search performed with accessible courts and tribunals of Romania, including the High Court of Cassation and Justice, Courts of Appeal, County Courts, local courts, and the Bucharest Municipal Court. **How to Apply** Apply for a Police Certificate (Certificat de Cazier judiciar) in person at the county police inspectorate in your county of birth or residence. Direcţia cazier judiciar, statistică şi evidenţe operative Tel: 021/316.49.75 or 021/208.25.25 int. 26954 Fax: 021/317.87.90 Address: Şos. Ştefan cel Mare, nr. 13-15, Bucureşti - S2 **Required Documents** * Identity document * A fiscal stamp (available at any post office) * Applicable fees **Check Type** Public source risk database search covering Global Government Sanctions, terrorist watch lists, Global Media, and Politically Exposed Persons (PEPs). **How to Apply** Apply in person with your photo identification, two passport-size photos, and the required fees at: Police Headquarters Castries, St. Lucia Tel: 758-456-3744 **Required Documents** * Photo identification * 2 passport-sized photos * Applicable fees **Check Type** Criminal record check performed directly with the Ministry of Justice. The registry contains records of criminal convictions for offenses described in the Spanish Criminal Code. **How to Apply** Apply online, by post, or at your local Ministry of Justice office. When submitting the online application, leave the "country requiring the certificate" field blank to avoid processing delays. **Apply Online:** [https://sede.mjusticia.gob.es/en/tramites/certificado-antecedentes](https://sede.mjusticia.gob.es/en/tramites/certificado-antecedentes) **Apply by Post:** [https://www.mjusticia.gob.es/en/ciudadania/tramites/certificado-antecedentes](https://www.mjusticia.gob.es/en/ciudadania/tramites/certificado-antecedentes) **Check Type** Criminal record check via the Directorate of National Surete, Identification Service. Results are issued via criminal certificate. **How to Apply** Obtain a Bulletin no. 3 from the local police station. Bring your national identity card or document (original and a copy), your birth certificate, and the applicable fees. **Required Documents** * National ID or national document (original and copy) * Birth certificate * Applicable fees **Check Type** Criminal record check involving applicant participation with nationwide coverage. Verification performed directly with the General Directory of Criminal Records Central Office. Results include any serious or recent criminal records except those expunged under rehabilitation laws. **How to Apply** Apply for a police certificate from the General Prosecutor's office (branches in each city). Present your birth certificate or passport (for foreign residents) and applicable fees. The certificate must include results of a search of "archived" records. Applications can also be made online with an e-Government password or online ID documents. **Required Documents** * Birth certificate or passport (for foreign residents) * Applicable fees **Apply Online:** [https://www.turkiye.gov.tr/adli-sicil-kaydi](https://www.turkiye.gov.tr/adli-sicil-kaydi) ### **4. What you can do to help things go smoothly** * Make sure your application includes accurate personal information (name, date of birth, address, driver’s license number, etc.). * When completing your background check, provide a **7-year address history** of verifiable residences only. Include addresses where you lived or were formally registered — do not add locations you visited temporarily (for example, short trips or holidays). * If you have a complex driving or criminal history, you may wish to review your records ahead of applying (so you can explain or provide documentation if needed). * Please respond quickly to any requests from us or our screening partner for additional documentation or verification. * Know that background-check timelines can vary by location and application volume. ### **5. Data privacy and fairness** Mercor is committed to protecting your data and ensuring fair evaluation throughout the process. * We don't share your background information outside the scope of our vetting process. * All screenings comply with applicable privacy and employment laws, including the **Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA)** in the U.S. and **GDPR** in the EU. * Background results are reviewed in context, considering factors such as the time elapsed, relevance to professional duties, and evidence of rehabilitation. ### **6. Why do we do this** Our clients rely on Mercor to connect them with trusted experts who can contract independently on sensitive, high-impact projects. Background checks help us: * Maintain a trusted global talent network. * Protect client data, finances, and legal interests. * Uphold professional and ethical standards across industries. By joining Mercor as a contractor, you become part of a community built on integrity, accountability, and excellence—values that define how we collaborate and with whom we partner. ### **FAQ** You can check your background check using the Project Dashboard by expanding the "Background check" section, as shown in the screenshot. image.png If you’re facing issues accessing the Certn or Zinc portal, uploading your documents, or haven’t received an email from the provider, please reach out directly to the respective provider’s support team for assistance. * **Certn Support:** [support@certn.co](mailto:support@certn.co) * **Zinc Support:** [https://help.zincwork.com/hc/hm54ky7yrc](https://help.zincwork.com/hc/hm54ky7yrc) They’ll be able to help troubleshoot portal access issues, upload errors, or missing document requests. If you see multiple line items for your background check (for example, two entries under **Certn/Zinc**), this means two separate checks are being processed — typically a **Criminal Background Check** and an **Adverse Media Check**. Your dashboard will only update once **both** checks are complete. If you’ve received a completion email for one of them, please check your inbox (and spam/junk folders) for another email from Certn/Zinc regarding the second check and complete that as well. Screenshot2025 11 24at21 32 09 Pn The turnaround time (TAT) for Zinc background checks varies depending on the **country** where the verification is being conducted. You can find the most up-to-date average processing times for each country on Zinc’s official turnaround time page here: [https://zincwork.com/turnaround-times/criminal](https://zincwork.com/turnaround-times/criminal) Please note that while many checks are completed within a few business days, certain verifications may take longer due to local regulations, public record access times, or additional documentation requirements. Background checks usually take **5–7 business days** to complete, though processing times can vary based on the country, documentation, or verification process. If your check has been in progress longer than expected, Mercor cannot expedite it once it is with Zinc or Certn. Processing is managed entirely by the provider. For a status update or help moving your check forward, contact your provider directly: * **Certn:** [support@certn.co](mailto:support@certn.co) * **Zinc:** [https://help.zincwork.com/hc/hm54ky7yrc](https://help.zincwork.com/hc/hm54ky7yrc) Yes, the background check request is legitimate. Mercor partners with both **Zinc** and **Certn** to complete background checks for users before they are onboarded to a project. These providers support our verification process and help ensure compliance and security standards are met. If you received communication from either Zinc or Certn, it is part of Mercor’s standard background check workflow. The background check cannot move forward without the required documents. These documents are necessary for the provider to complete their verification process, and Mercor cannot waive, replace, or override them. If you do not have the requested documents, contact the background check provider directly to ask whether they can accept alternative documentation or offer another solution. Any exceptions are determined solely by the provider, and Mercor does not have visibility into or control over their internal review process. For assistance, you may reach out to the provider using the contact information below: * **Certn Support:** [support@certn.co](mailto:support@certn.co) * **Zinc Support:** [https://help.zincwork.com/hc/hm54ky7yrc](https://help.zincwork.com/hc/hm54ky7yrc) The provider will be able to guide you on acceptable alternatives, next steps, or whether the check can proceed with different documentation. Any information you provide during the background check is collected and processed directly by the background check provider. Mercor does not store or manage this data. If you’d like to request data deletion or learn more about data retention practices, please contact the background check provider directly: * **Certn:** [support@certn.co](mailto:support@certn.co) * **Zinc:** [https://help.zincwork.com/hc/hm54ky7yrc](https://help.zincwork.com/hc/hm54ky7yrc) No, we do not reimburse any charges incurred for obtaining documents requested by Zinc or Certn.