How common is a criminal background check in European countries?

rnc312: How common is a criminal background check used as a condition of employment in European countries?
An American who has dual citizenship with an EU country wants to start a new life in Europe due to her federal criminal record in the U.S. One Frenchman she talked to said criminal record checks usually aren’t conducted on prospective new employees. I’m not so sure about that, so I’ve come here to ask.
Just to clarify: I’m not inquiring about myself. It’s about an American friend who also has Irish citizenship. Her employment application will be made in Europe — not sure which EU country she’ll be moving to, though.

Answers and Views:

Answer by Majin
It depends on the job. Just like here in the US. If you want a job in a small store, I doubt they will care about your DUI charges. But if you want to work say, at a nuclear power plant, then its a different matter.

Answer by D S
It depends, two of my employers have done one, two others have not.
If you are dealing with legal or sensitive issues, then usually you are checked.
However, the majority of jobs do not require one.

But you have to fill in employment questionnaires at larger companies and if you have a criminal record but do not indicate that when asked, but you are found out later, it is an offense and you can be immediately dismissed.

Answer by The Bricklayer
I never check someones criminal record,if they can do their job,that is enough for me.

However,if is a position of trust or security,then i would imagine that passing a CRB check would be high on the list

Answer by றaறour ø♥ø
Which country are you a citizen of in Europe ?
You are always allowed to go back to your other country without being checked but it totally depends on the criminal records ? drugs ? child pornography anything of that caliber will follow you. Also depends on the Co. employing you..
On your application was it filled in the US ? If so that is where the check will be on your records.. (in the US)

Answer by Maggie
A CRB check is mandatory in the UK when working with children or vulnerable adults. It is also mandatory for certain professions such as law and accountancy. Armed forces, security, police and emergency services personnel are vetted, as well as all medical staff.

In Europe, many countries have reciprocal arrangements as they mostly have similar systems, but if they are not in place you are usually required to produce a good conduct certificate from your country.