A criminal record can significantly affect your future in Rijswijk. For work, internships or volunteer work, a Certificate of Conduct (VOG) is often required. What is on your criminal record and when is a VOG not issued?
What does a criminal record entail?
A criminal record is an overview of your criminal convictions, recorded in the Judicial Documentation System (JDS) of the judiciary.
Which data are stored?
- Convictions (including conditional sentences)
- Penal orders by the Public Prosecution Service
- Settlements and transactions
- Conditional dismissals
- Temporary registration of acquittals
How long are data retained?
Criminal record registrations are not retained permanently.
Retention periods
| Type of sentence | Retention period duration |
|---|---|
| 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 problem for a specific function or role.
When is a VOG required?
- Work in sectors such as education, healthcare or childcare
- Financial or positions of trust
- Security functions
- Taxi drivers
- Volunteer work with vulnerable persons
- Internships or training programmes
How is a VOG application assessed?
Justis, the screening authority, examines whether your criminal record is relevant to the application.
Assessment criteria
- Function-relatedness: Is the offence relevant to the function?
- Time span: How long ago did the offence take place?
- Recidivism risk: Is there a pattern of 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 | No limit |
| Young people under 23 years | 2 years |
What if a VOG is refused?
In case of refusal, you will receive a reasoned decision from Justis.
Objection possibilities
- Submit a view before the final decision
- File an objection after the decision
- Appeal to the District Court of The Hague
Criminal record for young people
For minors, shorter retention periods often apply and a milder assessment for VOG applications.
Practical tips for Rijswijk
- Check in time whether a VOG is needed for your situation
- A criminal record does not always lead to refusal of the 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 Rijswijk 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 overview from the Judicial Information Service via an application form on the website of the Custodial Institutions Agency (DJI). This extract shows your convictions and other relevant registrations.
Does a criminal record always mean a refused VOG?
No, Justis looks at the relevance of the offence to the function, the time elapsed and whether there is repetition. An old or irrelevant offence need not be a problem.
How long does a conviction remain on my criminal record?
This depends on the sentence. A fine expires after 5 years, while heavier sentences are retained for up to 30 years or longer.
What if I am suspected of an offence?
You have the right to legal assistance, the right to remain silent and the police must inform you of your rights. Being suspected does not mean you are guilty.
Can I get legal help in Rijswijk?
Yes, you can contact the Juridisch Loket Rijswijk for free advice or referral to a lawyer.