India Police Clearance Certificate

Description of the Document and Its Purpose

A Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) in India is an official document issued by the police department that certifies an individual's criminal record status. It serves as proof of a person's good conduct and is often required for various purposes, including:

• Visa Applications: Many countries require a PCC for visa applications to ensure that the applicant does not have a criminal background.
• Employment: Certain employers, especially in sensitive sectors, may request a PCC to verify the integrity of potential employees.
• Immigration: Individuals seeking to immigrate to another country may need to provide a PCC as part of their application process.
• Adoption: A PCC may be required for individuals or couples looking to adopt a child, ensuring they have no criminal history that could affect the adoption process.

Technical Requirements for the Document

The Police Clearance Certificate typically includes the following technical details:

• Full Name: The applicant's complete name as per official documents.
• Date of Birth: The applicant's date of birth for identification purposes.
• Address: Current and permanent address of the applicant.
• Purpose of Issuance: A brief description of why the PCC is being requested.
• Criminal Record Status: A statement indicating whether the individual has any criminal records.
• Issuing Authority: The name and designation of the police officer or authority issuing the certificate.
• Date of Issue: The date on which the PCC is issued.

Process of Getting the Document

Obtaining a Police Clearance Certificate in India involves several steps. Below is a comprehensive guide to the process:

Step 1: Determine Eligibility

Before applying, ensure that you are eligible for a PCC. Generally, you must be an Indian citizen or a foreign national residing in India.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

You will need to prepare the following documents:

• Application Form: A duly filled application form for PCC.
• Identity Proof: A government-issued ID (Aadhaar card, passport, voter ID, etc.).
• Address Proof: Documents such as utility bills, rental agreements, or bank statements.
• Passport Size Photographs: Usually, two recent passport-sized photographs.
• Purpose of PCC: A letter stating the purpose for which the PCC is required.

Step 3: Submit Application

You can apply for a PCC through the following methods:

• Online Application: Many states in India offer online services for applying for a PCC. Visit the official website of the respective state police department.
• In-Person Application: You can also visit the local police station or the designated office in your area to submit your application.

GUIDELINES FOR CAPTURING PHOTOGRAPHS

• Close up of the head and top of the shoulders such that the face takes up 80-85% of the photograph.

• The photograph should be in color and dimensions should be 630*810 Pixels

• Background of the photograph should be White.

• The photographs must:

  • Show the applicant looking directly at the camera
  • Show the skin tones naturally
  • Have appropriate brightness and contrast
  • Show the applicants eyes open & clearly visible
  • Should not have hair across the eyes
  • Be taken with uniform lighting and not show shadows or flash reflections on the face and no red eye.

• It should have full face, front-view, eyes open.

• Photo should present full head from top of hair to bottom of chin.

• Centre head within frame.

• There should not be any distracting shadows on the face or on the background.

• Head coverings are not permitted except for religious reasons, but the facial features from bottom of chin to top of forehead and both edges of the face must be clearly shown.

• The expression on the face should look natural.

• Exemption may be granted in cases of facial deformity or neurological disorder upon submission of a valid certificate issued by a registered medical practitioner.

Typical error messages

Image Size is not correct. Dimensions should be 630*810 pixels.

Photo is not valid as per ICAO standards

Please use our photo tool to get compliant India Police Clearance Certificate PCC photo

Step 4: Pay the Fee

There is usually a nominal fee associated with obtaining a PCC. The fee may vary by state and can be paid online or in person, depending on the application method.

Step 5: Verification Process

Once your application is submitted, the police department will conduct a verification process. This may involve:

• Background Check: The police will check your criminal record status.
• Home Visit: In some cases, police officials may visit your residence to verify your identity and background.

Step 6: Receive the Certificate

After the verification process is complete, you will receive your Police Clearance Certificate. The time taken to issue the PCC can vary from a few days to several weeks, depending on the state and the complexity of the verification.

Official Links

• Ministry of Home Affairs, India
• State Police Websites
• Passport Seva at Indian Embassies And Consulates

Other Relevant Information

• Validity: A Police Clearance Certificate does not have a fixed validity period, but it is generally recommended to obtain a new PCC for each application, especially for visa or immigration purposes.
• Renewal: If you need a PCC for a different purpose after a certain period, you will need to apply for a new certificate.
• International Applicants: Foreign nationals residing in India may also apply for a PCC through their respective embassies or consulates.

In conclusion, obtaining a Police Clearance Certificate in India is a straightforward process, provided you have the necessary documents and follow the required steps. It is an essential document for various legal and administrative purposes, ensuring that individuals maintain a clear record of conduct.