A Police Clearance Certificate, also known as a “Good Conduct Certificate”, is often a mandatory requirement for both UAE nationals and expatriates who are either applying for jobs, seeking immigration to another country, or fulfilling other legal obligations. It essentially serves as a record of an individual’s criminal history (or lack thereof) and is an essential part of background checks for government and private institutions alike. The process of obtaining a PCC is straightforward, but it involves certain steps that must be carefully followed to ensure smooth completion.
The PCC is not only required by residents but also by individuals who have previously lived in Dubai and are now applying for residency or a work permit in other countries. In many cases, former Dubai residents are required to provide this document as part of their immigration or employment applications to prove that they have no criminal history in the UAE.
Getting a PCC in Dubai might seem somehow stressful, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the process. However, it’s a relatively straightforward procedure once you know the steps. In this blog, we’ll break down the entire process, explain who needs a PCC, and provide you with a detailed step-by-step guide on how to apply for one.
What is a Police Clearance Certificate?
A Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) is an official document issued by the Dubai Police, confirming that the applicant has no criminal convictions during their time in the UAE. It is also commonly referred to as a “Good Conduct Certificate.” The purpose of this certificate is to confirm that an individual has not been involved in any unlawful activities or criminal offenses while residing in Dubai. The certificate is used for various purposes, such as:
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Job applications (especially for high-security or government positions)
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Immigration and visa applications to certain countries
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Marriage registration in Dubai
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Business set-up or government-related activities
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Adoption applications
The certificate can be issued in either Arabic or English, depending on the applicant’s needs, and it serves as a testament to the individual’s clean record during their stay in Dubai.
Why Might You Need a Police Clearance Certificate?
There are several reasons why individuals might need to obtain a Police Clearance Certificate in Dubai:
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For employment: Many employers in Dubai, especially in government and semi-government sectors, require a PCC to ensure that the candidate has no criminal background.
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For immigration purposes: When applying for a visa or residency in certain countries, applicants may need to provide a PCC to confirm their good conduct.
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For study abroad: Some educational institutions require applicants to submit a PCC as part of the admission process, especially for programs with strict background checks.
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For setting up a business: Entrepreneurs seeking to establish businesses in Dubai may be required to provide a PCC to authorities during the licensing process.
Both residents and former residents of Dubai, including those who have moved back to their home countries, may need to provide this document depending on their current or future needs.
Now that we understand the importance of the Police Clearance Certificate, let’s see how you can get one in Dubai.
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a Police Clearance Certificate in Dubai
Step 1: Gather the Required Documents
Before starting the application process, it’s important to make sure you have all the necessary documents. The required paperwork can vary depending on whether you are currently residing in Dubai or applying from abroad as a former resident.
For UAE Residents:
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Emirates ID (both original and a copy)
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Passport copy
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Recent passport-sized photograph
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Completed application form
For Former Residents or Non-Residents:
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Passport copy
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Two recent passport-sized photos
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Previous UAE visa copy (to verify your stay in Dubai)
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Fingerprint records (If applying from abroad, you will need to get your fingerprints done by your home country’s police department or any authorized center. The fingerprints should then be attested by the UAE embassy in your country.)
Ensuring that all your documents are valid and up-to-date is crucial for a smooth application process.
Step 2: Choose Your Preferred Application Method
There are several ways to apply for a Police Clearance Certificate in Dubai. You can submit your application online, through the Dubai Police mobile app, in person at a service center, or at authorized typing centers. Each option has its advantages, and we’ll explain how each method works.
1. Applying Online
One of the most convenient ways to apply for a Police Clearance Certificate is through the Dubai Police’s official website.
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Step-by-Step Online Process:
1. Visit the [Dubai Police website](https://www.dubaipolice.gov.ae) and look for the section titled “Certificates of Good Conduct.”
2. Register an account using your Emirates ID or email address.
3. Fill out the application form, providing personal details such as your full name, passport number, and Emirates ID number.
4. Upload required documents like your Emirates ID, passport copy, and a recent photo.
5. Choose the preferred language (Arabic or English) for the certificate.
6. Pay the application fee (approximately AED 220 for residents, AED 320 for non-residents) using a credit or debit card.
7. Submit your application and wait for an email or SMS notification about the status of your certificate.
2. Applying via the Dubai Police Smart App
If you prefer using your mobile phone, the Dubai Police Smart App is available on both Android and iOS platforms.
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Step-by-Step Process on the App:
1. Download the Dubai Police Smart App from the App Store or Google Play.
2. Log in or create an account using your Emirates ID or email.
3. Navigate to the “Certificates” section and choose “Police Clearance Certificate.”
4. Complete the required fields and upload your documents, just as you would on the website.
5. Make the payment and submit your application.
The app offers the convenience of applying from anywhere, and the process is relatively quick.
3. Applying in Person at Dubai Police Service Centers
For those who prefer face-to-face interactions, you can visit any Dubai Police service center or authorized typing center to apply.
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In-Person Process:
1. Visit a nearby Dubai Police service center with your documents.
2. Fill out the application form and submit it along with the required paperwork.
3. Pay the applicable fee at the service center.
4. You will be informed when the certificate is ready for collection or will be emailed to you.
Step 3: Pay the Application Fee
The cost of applying for a Police Clearance Certificate varies depending on whether you are a UAE resident or a former resident:
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For UAE residents: The fee is around AED 220.
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For non-residents/former residents: The fee is approximately AED 320.
Payments can be made online, through the app, or at the service center via credit card or other available payment options.
Step 4: Processing Time
Once you submit your application, the Police Clearance Certificate usually takes about 3 to 5 working days to process. However, if you’re applying from outside the UAE, the processing time might be slightly longer due to additional verifications.
Step 5: Receive Your Certificate
After processing, the certificate will either be emailed to you (if applied online) or you can collect it in person from the service center (if you applied there). The PCC is issued as a digital copy or physical document, depending on your application preference.
Note: Dubai has made it easier that when you apply for a police clearance certificate, a reference number is automatically generated, with which you can track the status of your application.
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