Due to distance, lack of relatives to assist with the process and the infamous SAPS backlog, obtaining a South African Police Clearance Certificate from overseas can seem like an overwhelming task. Indeed, for many South African citizens who work, travel and reside abroad, obtaining a South African Police Clearance Certificate from overseas can be a very time-consuming and stressful undertaking. It involves a number of processes such as obtaining supporting documents, completing the application form, having your ink fingerprints taken, paying the application fee, sending the application to the SAPS and finally collecting the actual Police Clearance Certificate.
While the process may seem daunting, we believe that with the right information and planning, it can be a smooth and hassle-free experience. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the process of obtaining your South African Police Clearance Certificate from overseas and explore options for expediting the process.
Understanding South African Police Clearance Certificate from Overseas
- What is the South African Clearance Certificate? The Police Clearance Certificate, also known as a PCC, is an official document that serves as proof that you have not been involved in any criminal activity in South Africa or, if you have, provides a copy of your criminal record. This information can be used by the requesting authority to decide whether you are suitable for the purpose for which you are applying, or if there are any grounds for refusal, such as security issues, violations of international law or human rights, criminal behaviour or organised crime. Police clearance certificates are required for South Africans who work, travel or live overseas for a variety of reasons, including legal obligations, residence permits and job placement.
- Who issue police clearance certificate in South Africa? The Criminal Records and Crime Scene Management (CR & CSM) Division of the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Pretoria is the only official body that issues the South African Police Clearance Certificate. If you are outside the country, you will need to courier all the necessary documents to South Africa to obtain the certificate. It is currently (July 2024) not possible to apply for a South African Police Clearance Certificate online.
Applying for a South African Police Clearance Certificate from Overseas
Now, let’s break down the steps to obtain this vital certificate while you are outside of South Africa:
- Supporting Documents: Gather all the documents you need, such as a copy of your ID card or passport. This must be certified at your local police station or the nearest South African Embassy or High Commission.
- Application Form: The appropriate application form for the South African Police Clearance Certificate is the SAPS 91 form. You can download it here. Complete all sections in black and sign where required.
- Fingerprinting: The South African Police Clearance Certificate can only be issued if the applicant submits his/her fingerprints, preferably taken in ink on a SAPS 91 form or on the official fingerprint forms of the relevant country. Digital fingerprints are not be accepted. This process can be done at a local police station, South African Embassy or High Commission, or fingerprinting services can assist you with this step.
- Fee: The current fee (July 2024) is R180,00 per application. This fee is non-refundable. Visit the SAPS’ website for details here.
- Submission: Submit your application along with the required documents, fingerprints to:
Criminal Records and Crime Scene Management
Tel: 012 393 3928
E-mail: crc-nameclear@saps.org.za
Physical address: Sanlam Plaza West, CRC Client Service Centre, 1st Floor, 271 Schoeman Street, Pretoria
Postal address : South African Criminal Record Centre, Private Bag X308, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
Web address: https://www.saps.gov.za/
Apostille
Apostille for international use: If you plan to use the Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) in another country, you may need an additional legalisation step called an apostille. The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) normally handles apostille applications.
Translation
International law requires that any document intended for official public use must be translated into the official language of the receiving country by a sworn translator. Therefore, after obtaining your South African Police Clearance Certificate from overseas, you may need to have it translated into French, German, Spanish or Portuguese, depending on the official language of the receiving country.
Role of Global Apostille Police clearance Services
Obtaining a South African Police Clearance Certificate from overseas is a detailed process that ensures thorough background checks for various requirements. For those seeking assistance with this process, Global Apostille offers expert services to streamline and simplify obtaining the Police Clearance Certificate in just 7 working days after reception of the application. Our experienced team ensures accurate and efficient handling, providing peace of mind. We offer:
- Professional Advice: Global Apostille have a thorough understanding of the regulations and steps involved in acquiring a South African police clearance certificate for applicants living abroad.
- Document Assistance: We help with compiling and assembling all required paperwork, making sure nothing is missed.
- Application Fast tracking: our experienced team aware of the proper channels and processes to use when submitting your application, which speeds up the process and lowers the risk of mistakes.
- Collection: Global Apostille will monitor the progress of your application, provide updates and ensure prompt collection of the final Police Clearance Certificate and courier delivery to you.
- Apostille & Translation: We can also assist with Dirco express Apostille and certified translation.
Obtain the South African Police Clearance Certificate from overseas in just seven (7) working days by using the services of Global Apostille in Pretoria. For more information, please contact us at: Tel: 012 348 3134; Mobile: 081 347 6060; Email: info@apostillelegalisation.co.za
