Police Character Certificate in Pakistan: How to Apply & Required Documents
A Police Character Certificate (PCC) is an official document issued by the police authorities in Pakistan to verify that the applicant has no criminal record within a specific jurisdiction. It is often required for employment, immigration, visa applications, and business transactions abroad. This guide provides a comprehensive step-by-step process for applying for a PCC in Pakistan, including the required documents, eligibility criteria, and other important considerations.
What is a Police Character Certificate?
A Police Character Certificate serves as an official proof that an individual has no criminal background within the jurisdiction of a particular police station. It is commonly required for:
Overseas employment and visa applications
Immigration and permanent residency applications
Study abroad purposes
Business and trade transactions
Local job requirements for security clearance
The certificate is issued by the police department of the applicant’s residence and may also be verified by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) for international use.
Eligibility Criteria for Police Character Certificate
To apply for a PCC in Pakistan, the applicant must:
Be a Pakistani citizen or a foreign national residing in Pakistan.
Have resided in the relevant police jurisdiction for a specific period.
Have no criminal record in that jurisdiction.
Provide valid identification and supporting documents.
Required Documents for Police Character Certificate
The following documents are typically required when applying for a PCC:
Duly filled application form (Available at the local police station or online portals of respective city police departments)
Copy of CNIC (Computerized National Identity Card) or Passport
Proof of residence (Utility bills, rent agreement, domicile certificate, or any other official address proof)
Passport-sized photographs (Usually 2-4 photos with a white background)
Attested copies of CNIC of witnesses (if required by the police station)
Affidavit stating that the applicant has no criminal record (Some jurisdictions may require this)
Previous Character Certificate (if applicable)
Authorization letter (If applying through a representative)
For those applying from outside Pakistan, additional documents such as a copy of a valid visa, previous PCC (if any), and proof of last residence in Pakistan may be required.
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for a Police Character Certificate in Pakistan
Step 1: Identify the Relevant Police Station
The Police Character Certificate is issued by the police station covering the applicant’s last place of residence. It is essential to determine which police jurisdiction the request falls under before proceeding.
Step 2: Obtain and Fill the Application Form
The application form for a PCC can be obtained from the local police station or downloaded from the official website of the respective city police department. Fill out the form with accurate details and attach the required documents.
Step 3: Submit the Application to the Police Station
The completed application form, along with the necessary documents, must be submitted to the concerned police station. In some cases, NADRA offices or Citizen Facilitation Centers may also accept PCC applications.
Step 4: Police Verification Process
Upon submission, the police authorities will:
Verify the applicant’s identity and residential history.
Check their criminal record database for any previous offenses.
Visit the applicant’s residence (if necessary) to verify address details.
Interview neighbors or references for further verification (if required).
Step 5: Approval and Issuance of Certificate
Once the verification is complete and no criminal record is found, the Police Character Certificate is issued. The applicant can collect the certificate in person or receive it via postal service, depending on the procedure followed by the police department.
Step 6: Attestation by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) (For Overseas Use)
If the PCC is required for international purposes, it must be attested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), Pakistan. The applicant needs to submit:
Original Police Character Certificate
Copy of CNIC/Passport
Visa/Employment Offer (if required)
MOFA attestation ensures that the certificate is recognized by foreign embassies and consulates.
Applying for a Police Character Certificate from Abroad
Pakistani citizens living abroad can apply for a PCC through their respective embassies or consulates. The process typically involves:
Filling out the PCC application form available on the embassy’s website.
Submitting a copy of the CNIC, passport, and last address in Pakistan.
Providing a notarized authorization letter for a representative in Pakistan to process the application.
Sending the documents to the concerned police station via courier or embassy assistance.
Receiving the PCC through embassy or postal services after processing.
Processing Time and Fees
Processing Time: Generally, a Police Character Certificate is issued within 7-15 working days after application submission. However, in urgent cases, expedited processing may be available.
Fees: The application fee varies by province and city, ranging from PKR 300 to PKR 1,500.
Common Reasons for PCC Application Rejection
A Police Character Certificate may be rejected due to:
Incorrect or incomplete application form submission.
Mismatch in the applicant’s residential details.
Failure to provide required documents.
Pending criminal cases or previous convictions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long is a Police Character Certificate valid in Pakistan?
A PCC is typically valid for 6 months from the date of issuance. However, validity requirements may vary depending on the institution requesting it.
2. Can a PCC be obtained online?
Some major cities like Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, and Rawalpindi offer online PCC application services through their respective police department websites.
3. Can I authorize someone to collect my Police Character Certificate?
Yes, if you cannot collect the PCC in person, you can authorize a family member or legal representative through a duly signed authority letter.
4. Do foreign nationals in Pakistan need a Police Character Certificate?
Yes, foreigners residing in Pakistan for study, work, or business purposes may need to obtain a PCC from the local police authorities.
5. Can a PCC be used for multiple purposes?
Yes, but different institutions may require a fresh PCC depending on the time elapsed since issuance.
Conclusion
A Police Character Certificate is an essential document for individuals seeking employment, immigration, or business transactions. By following the correct application process and submitting the required documents, applicants can obtain their PCC smoothly and efficiently. If applying from abroad, coordinating with embassies ensures a hassle-free experience.
For more updates on Pakistani legal procedures, stay connected with Basic Pakistani Laws in Urdu!