A criminal record can significantly influence your future in Leiden. When applying for jobs, internships, or volunteer work, a Certificate of Conduct (VOG) may be required. What information is on your criminal record and in which cases is a VOG refused?
What does a criminal record entail?
A criminal record is an overview of your criminal convictions, recorded in the Judicial Documentation System (JDS), an official database of judicial data.
What data is recorded?
- Convictions, including conditional sentences
- Penal orders by the Public Prosecution Service
- Settlements and transactions
- Discontinuances with conditions
- Temporary registration of acquittals
How long are data retained?
Criminal record registrations are not kept permanently and disappear after a period of time.
Retention periods
| Type of sentence | Retention period |
|---|---|
| Fine or community service order | 5 years after payment/execution |
| Prison sentence up to 3 years | 20 years after sentence execution |
| Prison sentence longer than 3 years | 30 years after sentence execution |
| TBS or PIJ measure | 30 years |
| Sexual offences against minors | 80 years |
What is a VOG?
A Certificate of Conduct (VOG) confirms that your past does not pose a risk for the position you wish to perform.
When is a VOG required?
- Work in sectors such as education, healthcare or childcare
- Financial or accounting positions
- Security jobs
- Taxi driver licence
- Volunteer work with vulnerable people
- Internships or training positions
How is a VOG application assessed?
The screening authority Justis examines whether your criminal record is relevant to the application.
Assessment criteria
- Job relevance: Does the offence relate to the position?
- Time since offence: How long ago did it occur?
- Recidivism risk: Are there multiple offences?
- Seriousness of the offence: How severe was the offence?
Look-back periods for VOG
| Category | Look-back period |
|---|---|
| Standard application | 4 years |
| Sexual offences | Unlimited |
| Young people under 23 years | 2 years |
What if a VOG is refused?
In case of refusal, you will receive a written explanation of the reason(s) for the refusal.
Options in case of refusal
- Submit a notice of objection before the final decision
- File an objection after the decision
- Appeal to the court, such as the District Court of The Hague, Leiden location
Criminal record for young people
For minors, shorter retention periods often apply and a more lenient assessment for VOG applications.
Practical tips for Leiden residents
- Check in time whether a VOG is needed for your job or internship
- A criminal record does not always lead to a refused VOG
- The older the offence, the smaller the chance of problems
- Consider filing an objection in case of an unjust refusal; contact the Juridisch Loket Leiden at Stationsweg 46 for advice
Frequently asked questions about criminal record and VOG
How can I find out what is on my criminal record?
You can request an extract of your criminal record from the Judicial Information Service via an application form on the website of the Custodial Institutions Agency (DJI). This extract shows which convictions and other data are registered. Note: some data, such as acquittals, are removed after a period of time.
Is a VOG always refused if there is a criminal record?
No, a criminal record does not automatically mean a refusal. Justis looks at the relevance of the offence to the position, the time elapsed, the seriousness of the offence and whether there is repetition. An old, irrelevant offence may, for example, not be a problem.
How long does a conviction remain on my criminal record?
The retention period varies per sentence. A fine disappears after 5 years, while heavier sentences such as prison sentences remain longer, sometimes up to 30 years. Sexual offences against minors remain registered for 80 years.
What if I am suspected of an offence?
As a suspect, you have the right to legal assistance, the right to remain silent and the police must inform you of your rights. A suspicion does not mean that you are guilty.
Can I get legal help in Leiden?
Yes, you are entitled to a lawyer. For free advice, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Leiden, located at Stationsweg 46. They help with questions about criminal law and VOG applications.