- 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 an official Australian fingerprint form.
- Standard processing is about 15 working days from SAPS registration.
- DPCC can handle submission, follow-up, collection and couriering to Australia.
Why South Africans in Australia need a PCC
South Africans in Australia often need a South African Police Clearance Certificate for visa applications, permanent residency, employment or immigration processes.
Applying from Australia can be complex without the right guidance, because all original documents must be submitted to the SAPS Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management Centre in Pretoria.
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 Australia
All South African citizens can apply, especially those who need proof of a clean criminal record for:
- Visa and residency applications in Australia
- Employment in Australia or other countries
- Immigration or emigration purposes
Documents you need
To apply from Australia, submit these originals:
- A full set of fingerprints on SAPS Form 91a, or an official Australian fingerprint form
- 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 a maiden name should be reflected
How to apply from Australia, step by step
South Africans in Australia commonly appoint a facilitation service like DPCC to manage the Pretoria side. Here's how it works with us:
- Get your forms and fingerprintsRequest the forms from us, then have your fingerprints taken in Australia.
- 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 to Australia once we've quality-checked it.
Processing times and urgent requests
Standard processing takes about 15 working days from SAPS registration. Expedited options exist for urgent requests.
Urgent police clearance requests
If you have a tight deadline, you can submit a written motivation and supporting documents to request expedited processing. Contact us to request this.
What a PCC from Australia costs
- The SAPS application fee (non-refundable)
- Inbound and outbound courier fees to and from Australia
- A private facilitation fee, if you use a service like DPCC
Total costs vary with your courier and provider, so ask for a detailed quote before you proceed. With DPCC there's no upfront payment: we invoice after your application is submitted to SAPS.
If you have a criminal record
Certain criminal records may be eligible for expungement, depending on the offence type and sentence. See our criminal record expungement page for guidance.
If your PCC is lost
If your PCC was lost or misplaced, you can request a reprint if it 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 can handle the whole process remotely: submission, follow-ups, collection and couriering to Australia.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a SAPS police clearance take from Australia?
Typically about 15 working days from SAPS registration, with expedited options available for urgent cases.
Can I apply online from Australia?
No. SAPS requires original documents. DPCC can submit your application on your behalf from Australia.
Do I need fingerprints in Australia?
Yes. Fingerprints must be taken on either SAPS Form 91a or the official Australian fingerprint form.
How do I get my maiden name on the PCC?
Provide a certified copy of your marriage certificate when submitting 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.