What really is a Police Character or Clearance certificate?

If you have plans of moving to another country and have applied for Residential status, immigration or employment, you will need a Police Character Certificate in order to move there. PCC is also used by companies hiring staff for restaurant chains, logistics, delivery boys etc. However, not every passport holder will have to obtain a Police Character Certificate (PCC) It basically states that the citizen is a bona fide individual with an untainted image. If, however, the applicant was ever detained, the certificate mentions it with the severity of the crime committed.

Is there an eligibility criterion for getting a Police Character Certificate (PCC) or can anybody get one?

Generally, an Indian passport and a valid address proof are referred to in addition to Birth certificates, Bachelorhood certificates (if the applicant happens to be a bachelor), Marriage certificate (if married), evidence of financial sustenance and photographs. The citizen must have completed 18 years of his/her age.

Do tourists also require a Police Character Certificate (PCC)?

Tourists don’t need to apply for a Police Character Certificate (PCC) as their duration of stay in some foreign country is finite.

The process of applying for a Police Character Certificate (PCC)

• • The applicant will be required to visit the official passport website so as to apply for a Police Character Certificate (PCC)

• • Click on the following: https://passportindia.gov.in/AppOnlineProject/

• • Choose the relevant police district and then sign into the Passport Seva online portal.

• • Once you’re redirected to the portal, choose ‘Apply for Police Clearance Certificate’ link.

• • After you’ve completed the formalities of the form, press the Submit button.

• • Next, click on the ‘Pay & Schedule Appointment’ so as to make the necessary payment and also schedule an appointment.

• • The fee is to be paid online using any of the digital payment methods.

• • Take a print out of the application form that you’ve filled which will have an ARN (Application Reference Number).
  • A text message stating your appointment specifics is normatively accepted as proof of appointment at the time of visit to the passport office.

What should you do in case you haven’t received a confirmation from the passport office but have applied online?

You need to re-check the e-mail address that you’ve provided or it could also be that your inbox is too crammed.

You can also get in touch with your district’s police station as they will be equipped to resolve your queries.