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Subject access requests

How we use Personal Data (PDF, 55.0 KB)opens new window

How to make a request for information under Data Protection

If you wish to make a request for 'personal data' under the Data Protection Act 1998 you must do so in writing or by completing the form DAT1. (PDF, 38.3 KB)opens new window

In order to process your application, a fee of £10 is payable.  Payment should be made by either cheque or postal order to the Police Service of Northern Ireland.  To establish your identity, your application must be accompanied by copies of at least two official documents, which between them, clearly show your name, date of birth and current address.  For example, driving license, medical card, birth / adoption certificate, passport and any other official document that shows your name and address.

To send a request by post, down load the attached DAT1 (PDF, 38.3 KB)opens new window form and return it to:

Data Protection Unit
PSNI Headquarters
65 Knock Road
Belfast
BT5 6LE

Telephone (+44) 028 9056 1616
Email : accesstoinformation@psni.pnn.police.uk

Pre Employment Criminal History Checks

Access NI was established by a joint programme between a number of government bodies within Northern Ireland.  It enables organisations to make more informed decisions by providing criminal history information about anyone seeking paid or unpaid work in certain defined areas, such as working with children or vulnerable people and for pre employment checks.

Access NI is part of central government and operates under the provisions of Part V of the Police Act 1997.  Since 1 April 2008 the PSNI no longer supplies criminal conviction history information to an employer or individual as part of a pre employment process.  Any requests received from an employer or individual for this purpose will be returned.

This category of personal data should be requested from Access NI who will provide three types of disclosure certificates.  Please use the link provided where you will find all the necessary guidance and an application form : www.accessni.gov.uk

Immigration and Visa Criminal History Checks

If criminal conviction history or police clearance is required for visa or immigration purposes to :

  • Australia
  • Canada
  • New Zealand
  • The United States of America

The ACPO criminal records office will now be supplying a Police Certificate to these embassies.
Please visit the ACPO website where you will find all the necessary guidance and an application form.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland will no longer be supplying criminal conviction history for any of the above countries.  If you have any queries regarding immigration or visa requirements please contact the relevant consul during office hours.

If you are dissatisfied about how your request has been dealt with, you should forward your complaint to the Corporate Information Manager, in writing to the address below.

Corporate Information Manager
PSNI Headquarters
65 Knock Road
Belfast
BT5 6LE

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