For many Nigerians living and working in the UK, especially those who are self-employed, one quiet barrier has always existed in the background: access to the right level of DBS check. That barrier is about to change.
From 21 January 2026, new legislation will allow self-employed individuals and personal employees to apply for Enhanced and Enhanced with Barred List(s) DBS checks for the first time. Until now, this level of background check could only be requested by an employing organisation, leaving many independent workers unable to prove their suitability for certain roles.
The change is particularly significant for Nigerians in the UK who work independently in sectors involving children or vulnerable adults. Under the current system, self-employed people can only apply for a Basic DBS check. If an Enhanced check is required, an organisation must submit the application on their behalf, even if the worker is genuinely self-employed. This has often limited opportunities or complicated hiring arrangements.
From January 2026, that restriction will ease. Self-employed workers and personal employees who are paid for their services will be able to apply for Enhanced or Enhanced with Barred List(s) checks themselves, as long as their role is eligible under existing DBS rules. Applications will be made through a registered DBS umbrella body rather than an employer.
This is expected to benefit people such as private tutors offering lessons directly to children, carers employed through direct payments, and individuals hired via personal health budgets. For many in the Nigerian diaspora, this includes tutors, support workers and care professionals who prefer to work independently rather than through agencies.
While the change opens new doors, some things remain the same. If you work for an organisation or provide services through one, that organisation can continue to apply for DBS checks on your behalf as it does now. The eligibility criteria for Enhanced and Barred List checks have not been expanded, meaning not every role will qualify. The legislation changes who can apply, not which jobs are eligible.
Applications will need to be made through a registered DBS umbrella body. These organisations are authorised to process DBS checks and submit them to the Disclosure and Barring Service. Workers will be able to find suitable umbrella bodies using the official GOV.UK search tool, filtering specifically for those that support self-employed applicants. Standard DBS fees will apply, although umbrella bodies may charge an additional administration fee.
For private individuals looking to hire someone directly, the responsibility remains with the worker. You cannot apply for a DBS check on behalf of a self-employed person or personal employee. However, you are allowed to ask to see the original DBS certificate once it has been issued, and you can use the free DBS Update Service to confirm whether it is still valid.
For Nigerians navigating work and opportunity in the UK, this reform matters because DBS checks often determine access. Without the right certificate, skilled and trustworthy workers can be locked out of roles simply because of how they are employed. Allowing self-employed people to apply directly removes an administrative obstacle that has existed for years.
At Chijos News, we understand how small regulatory changes can have a big impact on diaspora communities. Whether you are a tutor, carer, or independent professional, this update gives you more control over your career and removes reliance on third parties just to prove your suitability.
As January 2026 approaches, we’ll continue to break down what this change means in real terms, how to apply safely, and how to avoid misinformation. For now, the key message is simple: if you are self-employed in the UK and your role qualifies, access to Enhanced DBS checks is finally opening up.