SAPS PCC Express Application Service Pretoria

Q: How long is a police clearance certificate valid for in South Africa?

The PCC is valid for six months from the date of issue.

Q: What is the fastest way to get a police clearance in South Africa?

Using Global Apostille’s express service is the fastest and most reliable method.

Q: When will a PCC not be issued?

SAPS may reject the application if the fingerprints are illegible, documents are incomplete, or fraudulent details are submitted.

Q: Do I need to get a new PCC if I have previously applied?

Yes. You need a new certificate for each visa or immigration application, especially if the previous one has expired.

Obtaining a SAPS Criminal Record certificate also known as Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) is an essential step for individuals seeking employment abroad or with multinational companies. Whether you are applying for a work permit, professional licensing, or a corporate employment contract, a PCC serves as proof of good conduct and confirms whether or not an individual has a criminal record in South Africa. However, securing your PCC directly through the South African Police Service (SAPS) can be challenging due to processing delays and backlogs, which may interfere with tight employment deadlines. To assist applicants in meeting these timelines, Global Apostille offers a 7-working-day Criminal Record certificate priority Service in South Africa, providing full support from submission to delivery and ensuring your certificate is ready when you need it most.

What is a Criminal Record Certificate ?

A Criminal Record Certificate also known as Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) is an official document issued by the Criminal Records and Crime Scene Management (CR & CSM) Division of SAPS in Pretoria. The certificate is based on fingerprint verification and indicates whether an individual has a criminal record in South Africa. For employment purposes, the PCC is a critical requirement for local and international job applications, professional registrations, and compliance with corporate human resources policies. Employers, licensing bodies, and government authorities often require a PCC to confirm the applicant’s integrity and legal standing. By providing verified proof of your criminal record status, a PCC ensures your eligibility for employment opportunities both within South Africa and overseas.

Why is a Criminal Record Certificate (PCC) Required for Employment?

Most employers, particularly those hiring individuals for positions that involve security, finance, healthcare, education, or international assignments, require a PCC as part of their background checks. The certificate demonstrates good conduct and reliability and allows employers to make informed decisions about potential hires. In addition to corporate requirements, many professional licensing bodies also mandate a PCC before granting registration or certification, ensuring that the applicant complies with ethical and legal standards. For applicants pursuing employment abroad, immigration authorities frequently request a PCC to confirm that the individual poses no legal or security risk. Having a valid PCC ready in advance helps prevent delays in recruitment processes, contract finalisation, and employment start dates.

Common situations where a PCC is required for employment include:

Work visa applications for international assignments
Corporate employment with multinational organisations
Professional licensing and certification in sectors such as healthcare, education, and engineering
Compliance checks for government or security-sensitive positions
Background verification for local and overseas employment

Who Can Apply for a Criminal Record Certificate?

Any South African citizen or foreign national who has previously lived in South Africa is eligible to apply for a PCC. Applicants do not need to be physically present in Pretoria, as we accept international submissions and provide comprehensive support for express applications. To apply, the following documents are required:

A fully completed Criminal Record Certificate (downloadable from our website)
A certified copy of your South African ID or valid passport
A full set of ink fingerprints completed on a SAPS 91a Form
A formal request submitted via info@apostillelegalisation.co.za

These documents are submitted to the SAPS CR & CSM Division in Pretoria for processing. Ensuring the documents are accurate and complete before submission is essential to prevent delays or rejections.

How to order your Criminal Record Certificate Application service?

Step-by-Step Process

Step 1:
Email your documents to info@apostillelegalisation.co.za, including:

Certified ID/passport copy
Completed PCC form
SAPS 91a fingerprint form
Your contact details

Step 2:
Our team will check your documents and send a quotation.

50% deposit required upfront
50% balance due upon collection or dispatch

Step 3:
Processing begins upon receipt of payment. Your PCC will be ready within 7 working days.

Processing Time & Fees

Processing Time: 7 working days
Service Fee: R2,750.00
Delivery Options:
- In-person collection (Pretoria)
- Courier (nationwide or international; additional fees apply)

Frequently Asked Questions – Criminal Record Certificate

1. What is a South African Criminal Record Certificate?

It is an official document issued by SAPS confirming whether you have a criminal record in South Africa also known as a Police Clearance Certificate

2. How long is a SAPS Criminal Record Certificate valid for in South Africa?

The PCC is valid for six months from the date of issue.

3. How long does it take to obtain a PCC?

With standard SAPS processing: 8 to 16 weeks.
With Global Apostille Express Service: 7 working days.

4. What is the fastest way to get a Criminal Record Certificate in South Africa?

Using Global Apostille’s express service is the fastest and most reliable method.

5. I have a criminal record. Will I still get a PCC?

Yes. The PCC will include details of any convictions or charges. The Saudi embassy or employer will assess your eligibility based on that.

6. What if my fingerprints are damaged or unclear?

You may be required to retake your fingerprints. Clear prints are essential for processing.

7. If I am a foreigner in South Africa, can I still apply for a criminal record?

Yes. Any foreign national who has lived in South Africa can request a PCC for the period they stayed in the country.

8. When will a PCC not be issued?

SAPS may reject the application if the fingerprints are illegible, documents are incomplete, or fraudulent details are submitted.

9. I've lost my PCC. Can I get a replacement?

No. A new application must be submitted, including fresh fingerprints and ID.

10. Do I need to get a new PCC if I have previously applied?

Yes. You need a new certificate for each visa or immigration application, especially if the previous one has expired.

We offer one of the fastest turnaround times in the industry so that you can get PCC application quickly and without any stress. if you cannot find the answers to your questions from our Q&A, simply contact us and we will provide you with feedback.