A Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) is an official document issued by the Indian Police or Passport Office confirming that you have no criminal record (or listing any record). It is often required for:
- Immigration or permanent residency applications (e.g., Australia, Canada, USA, UK).
- Long-term visas (work, study, residence).
- Employment abroad.
- Adoption or licensing processes.
This guide explains who can apply, the types of PCC, and how to get one in India or abroad.
1. Who Can Apply for a PCC?
- Indian citizens — residing in India or abroad.
- Foreign nationals — who lived in India for more than 6 months and need a clearance certificate.
💡 If you’re an Indian passport holder, the process is simpler through the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Indian Mission abroad.
2. Types of PCC
| Type | Who Issues It | Who Usually Needs It |
|---|---|---|
| PCC via Passport Office (PSK/POPSK) | Ministry of External Affairs | Most Indians applying for visas, immigration, jobs abroad |
| PCC via Local Police Station | State Police | Non-passport holders, foreigners, local requirements |
| PCC from Indian Embassy/Consulate | Indian Missions abroad | Indians living overseas who need PCC |
3. Documents Required (Most Cases)
- Valid Indian passport (original + copy).
- Proof of current address (Aadhaar, rental agreement, utility bill).
- Old passports (if any).
- Recent passport-size photos.
- Visa/immigration/job request letter (sometimes needed).
- If abroad: valid visa/residence permit copy and proof of stay.
⚠️ For foreign nationals who lived in India: passport with Indian visa + proof of address during stay.
4. Applying for PCC in India (Passport Holders)
Step 1 — Apply Online
- Visit the Passport Seva Portal: https://portal2.passportindia.gov.in
- Register/log in and select “Apply for PCC.”
- Fill in details, submit, and pay the fee (₹500 in 2025).
Step 2 — Book an Appointment
- Choose your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK).
Step 3 — Visit the PSK
- Bring:
- Appointment receipt
- Passport(s)
- Proof of address
- Supporting documents if asked
- Biometrics and photo will be taken.
Step 4 — Police Verification
- A local police officer may visit your address for verification (if not previously done).
Step 5 — Receive Your PCC
- Usually issued within 7–21 days after police clearance.
- Available as a printed certificate or online download.
5. Applying for PCC from an Indian Embassy or Consulate (Abroad)
Step 1 — Book Online Appointment
- Go to your local Indian mission’s website or use the Passport Seva (Global) portal: https://embassy.passportindia.gov.in
- Complete the application form.
Step 2 — Prepare Documents
- Current passport + copies
- Valid visa/residence permit
- Proof of address abroad
- Old Indian address proof (if available)
- Passport photos
Step 3 — Submit Application
- Visit the embassy/consulate or their service partner (often VFS Global).
- Pay fees: ~USD $20–50 (varies by country).
Step 4 — Processing Time
- Usually 2–6 weeks, as the embassy may request police verification from India.
6. Applying for PCC Without an Indian Passport
- Contact the local police station or state police headquarters where you lived in India.
- Submit proof of stay, passport with visa pages, and a request letter.
- Processing times and fees vary widely.
7. Fees (2025)
| Where You Apply | Fee |
|---|---|
| Passport Seva Kendra (India) | ₹500 |
| Indian Embassy/Consulate Abroad | USD $20–50 (varies by country) |
| Local Police Station | State-dependent (₹500–2,000 typical) |
8. Tips for a Smooth Application
- Apply early: Some immigration programs require PCC issued within 6 months.
- Ensure passport details match: Any discrepancy can delay clearance.
- Be available for police verification: Keep your phone on and address accessible.
- Track application online: The Passport Seva portal shows real-time updates.
- Abroad? Apply through the embassy early: International police verification may take weeks.
- If you moved often: Provide previous addresses; police may check them.
Quick Checklist Before You Apply
- Valid passport with correct address
- Proof of current address (Aadhaar, lease, bills)
- Immigration/job/visa request letter (if required)
- Appointment booked online (PSK or embassy)
- Photos (passport size)
- Keep old passports ready (if any)