- 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 New Zealand fingerprint form.
- Standard processing is about 15 working days from SAPS registration.
- DPCC can handle submission, follow-up, collection and couriering to New Zealand.
Why South Africans in New Zealand need a PCC
South Africans in New Zealand often need a South African Police Clearance Certificate for visa applications, residency permits, employment or immigration processes.
Applying from New Zealand can be confusing, 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 New Zealand
All South African citizens can apply, especially those who need proof of a clean criminal record for:
- Visa and residency applications in New Zealand
- Employment in New Zealand or other countries
- Immigration or emigration purposes
Documents you need
To apply from New Zealand, submit these originals:
- A full set of fingerprints on SAPS Form 91a, or an official New Zealand 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 New Zealand, step by step
South Africans in New Zealand commonly appoint a facilitation service like DPCC to manage the Pretoria side. Here's how it works with us:
- Get your forms and fingerprints Request the forms from us, then have your fingerprints taken in New Zealand.
- Courier your originals to DPCC We check them for completeness.
- We submit to SAPS in Pretoria You receive proof of submission.
- We follow up and collect We track progress and collect the certificate once it's issued.
- We courier it to you A scan comes first by email. The original follows to New Zealand 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 New Zealand costs
- The SAPS application fee (non-refundable)
- Inbound and outbound courier fees to and from New Zealand
- 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 New Zealand.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a SAPS police clearance take from New Zealand?
Typically about 15 working days from SAPS registration, with expedited options available for urgent cases.
Can I apply online from New Zealand?
No. SAPS requires original documents. DPCC can submit your application on your behalf from New Zealand.
Do I need fingerprints in New Zealand?
Yes. Fingerprints must be taken on either SAPS Form 91a or the official New Zealand 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 or acting on behalf of SAPS. All PCCs are issued solely by SAPS.