If you are applying for a passport or planning to travel abroad, you may need a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC). This certificate is proof that you have no criminal record or pending cases in India. It is often required for getting jobs overseas, applying for long-term visas, or immigration purposes.
The good news is that getting a Police Clearance Certificate for passport in India is now much simpler because the process is mostly online. Here’s everything you need to know.
Table of Contents
What is a Police Clearance Certificate?
A Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) is an official document issued by the Passport Office under the Ministry of External Affairs, with the help of your local police station. It confirms that you are a law-abiding citizen with no criminal background.
How to Apply for a PCC in India
The process to get a PCC is very straightforward. You just need to follow a few steps:
1. Apply Online
Go to the official Passport Seva website, log in (or create a new account), and choose “Apply for Police Clearance Certificate (PCC)”. Fill out your details carefully and pay the fee of ₹500.
2. Book an Appointment
After applying, book a slot at your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Regional Passport Office (RPO). You’ll receive an appointment slip that you need to carry with you.
3. Visit the Passport Office
On the appointment day, visit the Passport Seva Kendra with your original documents and photocopies. The most important ones are:
- Your valid passport
- Proof of current address (Aadhaar, Voter ID, Driving License, etc.)
- Appointment confirmation slip
The officials will check your documents and take your biometrics and photograph.
4. Police Verification
Your application is then sent to the local police station for verification. A police officer will either visit your home or call you to the station to confirm your identity and address.
5. Get Your PCC
Once the police give clearance, your Police Clearance Certificate is issued by the Passport Office. You can track the status online, and in most cases, you will receive the certificate by post or you can download it online.
How Much Time Does It Take?
The time to get a PCC usually ranges from 7 to 21 days, depending on how quickly police verification is completed in your area. In big cities, the process is often faster.
Key Things to Remember
- Always apply through the official Passport Seva Portal.
- Double-check that your personal details match the details in your passport.
- Police verification is mandatory in most cases.
- PCC is usually valid for 6 months, though some countries may accept it for a longer or shorter period.
FAQs
Q1. Is Police Clearance Certificate required for all passports?
No, for fresh passport applications PCC is usually not required. But it is needed for certain categories such as work visas, immigration, and jobs abroad.
Q2. What is the fee for getting a PCC in India?
The fee for a Police Clearance Certificate is ₹500, payable online during application.
Q3. How long is a Police Clearance Certificate valid?
In most cases, PCC is valid for 6 months. However, some embassies and employers may have their own rules.
Q4. How much time does it take to get a PCC?
On average, it takes 7–21 days, depending on police verification speed in your area.
Q5. Can I apply for a PCC offline?
No, the application must be made online through the Passport Seva Portal, but document verification and police checks happen offline.
Final Words
Getting a Police Clearance Certificate for passport in India is no longer a difficult task. With the Passport Seva Kendra system, you can apply online, attend a short appointment, complete police verification, and get your PCC in just a few weeks.
If you are planning to work, study, or settle abroad, apply for your PCC early so that your travel or visa process is not delayed.
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