Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) - Complete Information

Whether you are applying for a visa, a job overseas, or permanent residency, a police clearance certificate will be required.

This document is used globally to prove that you have no criminal record in the country you reside in or previously lived in.

This article provides complete information about the PCC process, requirements, uses, and how authorized private providers like RealScan Biometrics can assist you with fingerprinting and documentation for PCCs in India.

What is a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC)?

A police clearance certificate is an official document issued by a police department or authorized body stating that you have no criminal background or pending legal issues during your period of stay in that country.

It is known by different names in each country, like:

• Good Conduct Certificate
• Criminal Record Check
• Certificate of No Criminal Conviction (CNCC)
• Police Character Certificate

Why is a PCC Required?

A PCC is usually required for:

• Immigration or permanent residency (PR)
• Overseas employment and work visas
• University or student visa applications
• Family sponsorship or adoption cases
• Professional licensing (medical, legal, finance, etc.)
• Marriage or court-related matters abroad

Many countries now mandate PCCs to ensure that applicants meet security and integrity requirements.

Countries That Commonly Require a PCC

• USA (FBI)
• Canada (RCMP)
• United Kingdom (ACRO)
• United Arab Emirates (UAE MOI)
• Australia (AFP)
• Singapore, South Africa, Qatar, the Philippines, Nigeria, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and more

Each country has a specific fingerprint format, document checklist, and embassy process—making it essential to get it done correctly the first time.

How to Apply for a PCC: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Determine the Country & Authority

Check which country you're applying to and identify the responsible authority:

FBI (USA) – FD-258 card

RCMP (Canada) – C-216C card

UAE MOI – Country-specific fingerprint form

ACRO (UK) – Police Certificate application

And so on

Step 2: Fingerprinting

You will need to submit fingerprints on the required form. This step is crucial, as errors can lead to rejection.

RealScan Biometrics in Delhi offers certified fingerprinting services for all major formats, including FD-258, C-216C, UAE, AFP, and ACRO cards.

Step 3: Documentation

Prepare the necessary documents:

• Valid passport (original and copy)
• Photographs (passport-size, as per country guidelines)
• Completed fingerprint card
• Application form or cover letter
• Attestation or notarization (if required)

Step 4: Submission

Submit the documents to:

• The respective police authority abroad
• A local embassy or consulate
• An authorized channeler or agency

Courier or digital submission methods may vary by country.

Step 5: Receive Your PCC

Once processed, the certificate will be:

• Emailed to you
• Posted to your Indian or foreign address
• Handed over to your authorized representative

Processing times range from 7 days to 4 weeks, depending on the country.

Why Choose RealScan Biometrics for PCC Services?

RealScan Biometrics is a top-rated fingerprinting and PCC service provider in Delhi, trusted by thousands for:

International Fingerprint Formats: We cover the USA (FBI), Canada (RCMP), UAE, UK, Australia, and more.

Error-Free Fingerprinting: Our trained experts capture clear, accepted fingerprints in 15–30 minutes.

End-to-End PCC Assistance: We help with form filling, embassy guidelines, attestation, courier, and follow-ups.

Fast and Professional Service: Same-day appointments and processing available for urgent cases.

Final Thoughts

A police clearance certificate is not just a formality; it’s a crucial part of your background verification. One mistake in fingerprinting or documentation can cause delays or rejections in your visa, job, or PR application.

With RealScan Biometrics, you get reliable, fast, and expert support for all your needs.

Contact us today to get your PCC processed quickly and correctly.