When to Use Which Sanctions Checks

Choosing the right type of sanctions check can make the difference between a compliant, efficient process and one that’s risky, costly, or ineffective.

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1. Onboarding New Customers or Vendors

When first engaging with a new client, supplier, or partner, a comprehensive (full list) check is the safest approach.
This ensures the subject is screened against all relevant sanctions lists, even if you operate in only one jurisdiction.

Pro Tip: Combine with PEP (Politically Exposed Person) screening during onboarding.

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2. Ongoing Monitoring

For customers and partners you already work with, real-time or periodic rescreening keeps your database compliant as sanctions lists change.
If regulations in your sector change often (e.g., fintech, crypto, trade), real-time monitoring is strongly recommended.

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3. Jurisdiction-Specific Operations

If your business operates exclusively in a certain jurisdiction, targeted checks can help cut down false positives.
For example, an EU-only business might focus on EU Consolidated Lists.

⚠️ Ensure you still comply with any cross-border sanctions obligations if you have foreign clients.

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4. Large Data Imports

When migrating data or onboarding a large group at once, batch screening via CSV upload or API is efficient.
This is also ideal for periodic "whole book" reviews.

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5. Investigations and One-Off Checks

If you receive a suspicious payment or need to screen a one-time supplier, ad-hoc/manual checks are appropriate.
These are quick, targeted lookups without affecting your entire customer base.

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Summary Table

Scenario	Recommended Check Type
Onboarding	Comprehensive check
Ongoing monitoring	Real-time / periodic
Single jurisdiction	Targeted checks
Data migration	Batch screening
Special investigation	Ad-hoc/manual

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Using the right type of sanctions check for the right scenario improves compliance accuracy, reduces noise, and optimizes operational costs.