VOG look-back periods: avoid simple assumptions

Criminal Law in the Netherlands.

The Dutch certificate of conduct is called a VOG. Its assessment uses look-back rules that can depend on age, the type of information and the purpose of the application.

The ordinary starting point does not cover every profession or offence. Some situations have longer or different periods. Check the current Justis rules for the actual application.

Ask which decision or recording date is relevant under the applicable rules. Calculating only from the date of the incident can give the wrong impression about whether a period has passed.

Read the rules on time spent in detention and any special screening requirements for the role. Do not assume that a period you calculated yourself applies without adjustment.

The end of a VOG look-back period does not erase judicial records. The assessment of the application and the retention of those records follow different rules.

If Justis proposes refusing the VOG, read the reasons and response deadline. Gather information relevant to the role and your current situation. A calendar calculation alone may not answer the concerns.

Read the full explanation on the Criminal Law in the Netherlands website.