Overview
A police clearance certificate (PCC) apostille is one of the most commonly requested documents for South Africans emigrating or working abroad. The apostille authenticates your SAPS-issued police clearance for use in Hague Convention countries.
Quick Facts
- Apostille Type: DIRCO (government document)
- Processing Time: 1-2 weeks
- Document Required: Original SAPS police clearance certificate
- Issuing Authority: SAPS Criminal Record Centre
- Validity: Typically 6 months (check destination country requirements)
What is a Police Clearance Certificate?
A Police Clearance Certificate (PCC), also known as a "good conduct certificate" or "criminal record check," is an official document issued by the South African Police Service (SAPS) that confirms whether you have any criminal convictions in South Africa.
This document is required by most countries for:
- Immigration and visa applications
- Work permit applications
- Citizenship applications
- Overseas employment
- Professional registration abroad
The Process
Obtain SAPS Police Clearance
Apply for your PCC at any SAPS station or the Criminal Record Centre. You'll need your fingerprints taken. Processing takes 2-4 weeks.
Check Validity Period
Ensure your PCC is within its validity period. Most countries require certificates less than 6 months old, some less than 3 months.
DIRCO Submission
Your original PCC is submitted to DIRCO in Pretoria for apostille authentication.
Collection & Delivery
Once apostilled, we collect your document and deliver it to you via courier or collection.
Important Timing Considerations
Plan Ahead for Validity
Police clearance certificates have a limited validity period. Plan your timeline carefully:
- SAPS processing: 2-4 weeks
- DIRCO apostille: 1-2 weeks
- Total: 3-6 weeks minimum
Apply for your PCC as close to your submission date as possible to maximize validity.
Common Uses
- Australian visa applications - Required for most visa categories
- UK visa applications - Standard requirement
- Canadian immigration - Required for all applicants over 18
- European work permits - Required in most EU countries
- UAE employment visas - Standard requirement
- New Zealand immigration - Required for residency applications
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a police clearance apostille take?
DIRCO apostille processing takes 1-2 weeks. If you need to obtain the SAPS police clearance first, add 2-4 weeks for that process. Total timeline: 3-6 weeks.
How long is a police clearance valid?
Police clearance certificates are typically valid for 6 months from date of issue. Some countries require certificates less than 3 months old. Always check your destination country's specific requirements.
Can I get a police clearance if I no longer live in South Africa?
Yes. If you're abroad, you can apply through the South African embassy or consulate in your country, or use a service provider in South Africa to apply on your behalf with a signed authorization.
What if I have criminal convictions?
The PCC will reflect any criminal convictions on record. This can still be apostilled. Whether it affects your visa application depends on the destination country's immigration policy and the nature of the conviction.
Do you offer nationwide service?
Yes! While we're based in Johannesburg, we serve clients throughout South Africa. You can courier your documents to us, and we'll handle the entire process and courier the apostilled documents back to you.