Police Clearance Certificate Application in South Africa

A Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) is an official document issued by the South African Police Service confirming an individual’s criminal record status, essential for emigration, travel, or employment abroad.

Police Clearance Certificate South Africa 2025

Table of Contents

Overview

The Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) in South Africa is an official document issued by the South African Police Service (SAPS) that confirms whether an individual has any criminal convictions recorded against them. It is primarily required for purposes such as emigration, travel, or employment abroad. As of 2025, there is a backlog in processing, which may extend waiting times.

A Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) in South Africa is an official document issued by the South African Police Service (SAPS) that confirms whether an individual has a criminal record. It’s often required for various purposes, especially when traveling or working abroad, for immigration, or for certain types of employment within South Africa.

For the most current details, visit the official SAPS website (www.saps.gov.za) or contact the Criminal Record Centre at Tel: 012 393 3928 or E-mail: [email protected].

Eligibility

  • Available to anyone who needs to prove their criminal status for emigration, travel, or work abroad.
  • Both South African residents and non-residents can apply, with processes adapted for those abroad.
  • Note: If an applicant is identified as “Wanted” by SAPS, a PCC will not be issued.

Requirements

  • A full set of fingerprints taken on the official SAPS 91(a) form (for South African residents) or an equivalent form (for those abroad).
  • Completed application form (available for download on the SAPS website).
  • Certified copy of your South African ID document or passport (original must be presented for verification if applying in person).
  • Documentary proof of any maiden or other surnames (e.g., marriage certificate) if required to be included on the certificate.
  • Proof of payment.
  • For applicants abroad, fingerprints can be taken at a local police station or South African Embassy.

How to Apply

  1. Prepare Documents: Gather all required items, including fingerprints, completed form, ID copy, and proof of payment.
  2. Submit Application:
    • In South Africa: Visit your nearest police station to submit and have them forward it to the Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management (CR & CSM) in Pretoria (no extra cost), or deliver it directly to the CR & CSM office.
    • From Abroad: Send the application via mail or courier directly to CR & CSM.
  3. Track Status: Use the online enquiry system on the SAPS website with your reference number. SMS updates are sent if a South African cell number is provided.
  4. Collect Certificate: Once ready, collect in person, nominate someone, or use a courier. Certificates not collected within 3 months are destroyed.

Processing time is approximately 15 working days from receipt of complete documents, excluding postal time, but delays are expected due to the 2025 backlog.

Fees

  • R190 per application (non-refundable).
  • Payable in cash at a police station or via electronic transfer to the SAPS ABSA account (Account No: 4054522787, Branch Code: 632005, Swift Code: ABSAZAJJXXX). Reference: “PCC” followed by your initials and surname.

What does a PCC show?

The certificate will state one of two things:

  1. “No criminal record” or similar wording, indicating that the individual has no recorded criminal convictions in South Africa.
  2. Details of any previous convictions, including the offence, date of conviction, and sentence received.

When is a PCC typically required?

  • International Travel/Visas: Many countries require a PCC for long-term visas, work permits, or permanent residency applications.
  • Immigration: For those emigrating from South Africa.
  • Employment: Certain job sectors (e.g., education, finance, security, working with vulnerable persons) may require a PCC.
  • Adoption: As part of the screening process for prospective parents.
  • Professional Registrations: For certain professional bodies or licenses.

How to Apply for a Police Clearance Certificate in South Africa

The application process can be done in person or by post.

  1. Application in South Africa (in person):
    • Fingerprints: The applicant must have their fingerprints taken at any local police station in South Africa. The police official will complete the application form (SAP-91(a) or similar, also known as the “Request for a South African Police Clearance Certificate” form).
    • Required Documents:
      • Completed fingerprint form (SAP-91(a)).
      • A certified copy of your South African Identity Document (ID) or passport.
      • Proof of payment of the prescribed fee (the fee changes periodically, so it’s best to confirm the current amount with SAPS or their website). This can often be paid at the police station or through an EFT/bank deposit, requiring proof of payment.
      • A letter from the requesting authority (employer, embassy, etc.) stating why the PCC is needed, if available.
    • Submission: The completed form, documents, and proof of payment are then submitted to the Criminal Record Centre (CRC) in Pretoria. You can submit it in person or send it via courier/registered mail.
  2. Application from Outside South Africa (by post):
    • Fingerprints: The applicant must have their fingerprints taken at the nearest police station in their country of residence or at a South African embassy/consulate. The police/official will complete the application form.
    • Required Documents:
      • Completed fingerprint form.
      • A certified copy of your South African ID or passport (certification done by a recognised authority in your current country, e.g., police, notary public).
      • Proof of payment of the prescribed fee (paid via international bank transfer or according to SAPS instructions).
      • A letter from the requesting authority, if available.
    • Submission: All documents are then sent via reliable courier or registered mail directly to the Criminal Record Centre (CRC) in Pretoria, South Africa.

Key Details and Tips

  • Processing Time: Processing times can vary significantly, from a few weeks to several months, depending on the volume of applications and whether there are any complexities. It’s advisable to apply well in advance of when you need the certificate.
  • Tracking: SAPS usually provides a tracking number or a way to enquire about the status of your application.
  • Validity: A PCC does not have an expiry date as such, but the validity period is often determined by the requesting institution (e.g., an embassy might only accept a PCC issued within the last 3 or 6 months).
  • Expediting: There is generally no official expedited service, although some third-party agencies claim to assist with faster processing (be cautious and verify their legitimacy).
  • Criminal Record Expungement: If you have a minor criminal record and meet certain criteria, you might be able to apply for expungement of your record before applying for a PCC. This is a separate legal process.

It is highly recommended to visit the official SAPS website or contact the Criminal Record Centre directly for the most up-to-date information, forms, fees, and submission addresses.