- Only SAPS in Pretoria issues a South African Police Clearance Certificate (PCC).
- SAPS doesn't accept electronic applications. Originals must be submitted in person.
- Fingerprints go on SAPS Form 91a or your country's official fingerprint form.
- Standard processing is about 15 working days from registration with SAPS.
- DPCC can submit, follow up, collect and courier your certificate to you.
Why South Africans abroad need a PCC
A Police Clearance Certificate is often required for visas, permanent residency, employment or other immigration approvals. Applying from outside South Africa is hard without guidance, which is why this guide answers the questions expats ask most.
What a South African Police Clearance Certificate is
A PCC is an official SAPS document that confirms whether any criminal convictions exist against a South African citizen. Only SAPS in Pretoria is authorised to issue it. Private companies, DPCC included, don't issue certificates.
Who can apply from abroad
All South African citizens living internationally can apply, especially for:
- Visa or residency applications
- Employment abroad
- Immigration or emigration purposes
Documents you need
You must provide these originals:
- A full set of fingerprints on SAPS Form 91a, or an official fingerprint form from your country
- A completed SAPS Police Clearance application form
- A certified copy of your South African ID or passport
- A certified copy of your marriage certificate, if your maiden name must appear
How to apply from abroad, step by step
Most South Africans abroad appoint a facilitation service like DPCC to handle the Pretoria side. Here's how it works with us:
- Get your forms and fingerprintsRequest the forms from us, then have your fingerprints taken locally.
- Courier your originals to DPCCWe check them for completeness.
- We submit to SAPS in PretoriaYou receive proof of submission.
- We follow up and collectWe track progress and collect the certificate once it's issued.
- We courier it to youA scan comes first by email. The original follows once we've quality-checked it.
Processing times and urgent requests
The standard processing time is about 15 working days from registration with SAPS. Expedited options exist for urgent applications.
Urgent police clearance requests
If you have a tight deadline, you can submit a written motivation and supporting documents for expedited processing. Contact us to request this.
What a PCC from abroad costs
- The SAPS application fee (non-refundable)
- Courier fees to and from South Africa
- A private facilitation fee, if you use a service like DPCC
Total costs vary with your location and provider, so ask for a detailed quote. With DPCC there's no upfront payment: we invoice after your application is submitted to SAPS.
If you have a criminal record
Certain offences may be eligible for expungement, depending on the offence type and sentence. See our criminal record expungement page.
If your PCC is lost
A reprint can be requested if the certificate was issued within the last six months. Older certificates need a new application.
Can you apply online?
No. SAPS doesn't accept electronic applications, so original documents must be submitted in person. DPCC submits, follows up, collects and couriers the certificate for applicants abroad.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a SAPS police clearance take from abroad?
Usually about 15 working days from registration with SAPS, with expedited options available for urgent cases.
Can I apply online from abroad?
No. SAPS does not accept electronic applications and requires original documents. DPCC can submit your application on your behalf from any country.
Do I need fingerprints from abroad?
Yes. Fingerprints must be on SAPS Form 91a or the official fingerprint form of your country.
How do I get my maiden name on the PCC?
Provide a certified copy of your marriage certificate with your application.
What if my Police Clearance Certificate is lost?
A reprint can be requested if the certificate was issued within the last six months. Older certificates require a new application.
Need help?
Phone +27 (0)73 727 7121 or email info@dpcc.co.za.
Related guides
Disclaimer: DACRO Personal Case Consultants is a private facilitation service and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or acting on behalf of SAPS. All PCCs are issued solely by SAPS.