Here are practical tips for getting a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) for your visa application, especially if you’re applying for a Schengen visa or any long-stay visa:
What is a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC)?
A PCC is an official document that states whether or not you have a criminal record in your country. Visa authorities request it to ensure you are of good character and not a security risk.
Tips for Getting a Police Clearance Certificate for Your Visa
1. Know When It’s Required
Not all visa types need it. It’s usually required for:
- Long-term visas (study, work, family reunification, etc.)
- Some Schengen visa applications (especially for residence permits)
- Immigration visas (Canada, Australia, UK, etc.)
Short-stay tourist visas usually don’t need PCC unless specifically requested.
2. Apply Early
- Processing time can vary (from 1 day to several weeks).
- Apply as soon as you know you’ll need it.
3. Where to Get It
It depends on your country:
- Nigeria: Apply at the CID Headquarters (Alagbon Close, Lagos) or your state police command.
- Ghana: Apply through the Criminal Investigations Department in Accra or regional offices.
- Kenya: Apply via eCitizen portal under DCI services.
- South Africa: Via SAP (South African Police Service)
You can also get one from:
- Your local police station
- The Ministry of Interior or Justice
- Some countries allow online applications
4. Documents You’ll Need
- Valid passport
- Passport photocopy
- Passport-sized photos
- Application form (if required)
- Fingerprint form (some countries require fingerprinting)
5. Use the Correct Address
If the certificate is being sent to an embassy or visa center, double-check:
- The embassy’s name and address
- Whether they need the certificate sealed or just a regular copy
6. Get It Translated (If Not in English)
If your PCC is issued in a local language, you may need a certified translation into English or the destination country’s language (e.g., German, French).
7. Keep Extra Copies
Always keep a copy for yourself, especially if:
- You plan to apply for multiple visas
- It took long to obtain
8. Check Validity Period
- Many embassies accept PCCs issued within 3 to 6 months
- Always check the visa website of the embassy you’re applying to
Bonus Tip:
If you’re applying from abroad, you can often:
- Get a relative or legal rep to apply on your behalf with a signed authorization
- Visit the embassy/consulate of your home country to get it.
PCCs Are Location-Specific
Many embassies require a PCC from every country you’ve lived in for more than 6 months in the past 5–10 years.
Example:
If you lived in Ghana for university and now live in Nigeria, you might need PCCs from both countries for long-stay visas like:
- Work
- Study
- Permanent residency
- Family reunion
Digital vs Physical Certificates
Some countries now issue digital PCCs, especially if you apply through:
- eCitizen (Kenya)
- Police portals in some states in India
- Nigerian Police Force Criminal Registry email service (in some cases)
However, some embassies still insist on an original hard copy, possibly:
- Sealed in an envelope
- With a signature and official stamp
So always check the exact format required by the specific embassy.
Fingerprinting May Be Required
Especially for:
- U.S., Canada, or Australia visas
- Some Schengen long-stay applications
If fingerprinting is needed:
- It must be done at a recognized police office
- Sometimes it has to be rolled fingerprints on a specific card (e.g., FBI format for the U.S.)
Some embassies may reject PCCs that weren’t issued with proper biometric verification.
Embassies Might Verify the PCC
If your visa type is sensitive or high-risk, the embassy may:
- Call the issuing police station
- Ask for a certified copy
- Require you to legalize or authenticate it at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
In Nigeria, for example:
- Some Schengen embassies ask that the PCC be notarized or legalized
Third-Party Agents: Use with Caution
While third-party agencies or consultants offer to help with PCC applications:
- Only use trusted, verified services
- Make sure the PCC is genuine and traceable
- A fake or questionable PCC = automatic visa refusal and blacklisting
PCCs for Minors and Dependents
- Children under 16 usually don’t need a PCC.
- If required, the parent/guardian usually applies on their behalf.
- Some embassies still ask for a PCC for anyone 16 or older, even if dependent.
If You’ve Had a Criminal Record
If you had a past conviction but have since been cleared:
- Be honest about it
- Attach court clearance or rehabilitation documents
- Write an explanatory letter showing how you’ve reformed or been cleared
Trying to hide it can lead to automatic visa denial.
Double Check Visa Country Requirements
Each country has unique expectations.