Guidance on Applying for a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) in Canada
When applying for Canadian immigration or citizenship, one of the key documents often required is a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC). Whether you are seeking to become a permanent resident, planning to study, or applying for a work permit, this certificate plays a vital role in the background verification process.
This page offers practical information on who needs a PCC, when to submit it, and how to obtain one from India and other countries.
What is a Police Clearance Certificate?
A Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) is an official document issued by police or government authorities to confirm whether or not an individual has a criminal record. It helps immigration authorities assess if the applicant poses any security or admissibility concerns. In Canada, the PCC is used by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to determine eligibility under various immigration programs.
A different name may be used to refer to the document, depending on the issuing country. Alternative terms include:
- Police clearance certificate
- Certificate of Good Conduct
- Judicial record extracts
- Good behaviour certificate
Suppose the certificate is issued in a language other than English or French. In that case, it must be submitted along with a certified translation.
Who Needs a Police Clearance Certificate?
A police certificate is usually required from:
- The principal applicant
- Spouse or common-law partner
- Dependent children aged 18 or older
These individuals must provide PCCs from:
- Each country they have lived in for 6 months or more since turning 18, and
- Their country of citizenship, regardless of the time spent there
Note: The specific requirements may differ depending on the immigration or citizenship program under which the application is submitted.
When Should You Submit a Police Clearance Certificate?
Each immigration pathway has its timing for PCC submission. Some examples include:
Express Entry
Candidates have 60 days from receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) to submit all documents, including the PCC. It is advisable to start the process early ideally, as soon as you enter the Express Entry pool.
International Experience Canada (IEC)
Most IEC participants are required to submit a PCC at the time of applying for a work permit.
Other Immigration or Citizenship Applications
For all other cases including family sponsorship, study permits, work permits, or citizenship—follow the guidance provided in the specific instruction guide for the application category.
Where and How to Apply for a PCC
In most countries, you can apply for a police clearance certificate through local law enforcement agencies or government departments responsible for public safety. Requirements typically include:
- Completed application form
- Valid identification documents
- Recent photographs
- Fingerprints (in some cases)
- Residential history (addresses and dates)
- Applicable fee
Processing times vary by country and organization. It’s important to factor in wait times when planning your application submission.
How to Get a Police Clearance Certificate from India
Suppose you are an Indian citizen or have lived in India for more than six months. In that case, you must obtain a PCC from Indian authorities. The certificate can be obtained from one of the following:
- Local District Police Station
- Regional Passport Office
- Indian Embassy or Consulate (if applying from abroad)
- BLS International Centre (outsourced service partner for Indian consulates in some countries)
Steps to Apply:
- Complete the PCC application form (available online or in person).
- Provide proof of identity (passport copy, Aadhaar card, etc.).
- Submit the required photos and address proof.
- Pay the applicable processing fee.
- Undergo a background verification check (if needed).
- Receive the certificate by mail or pick it up, depending on the issuing authority.
It is essential to verify with the issuing body whether the certificate will be valid for immigration purposes, as IRCC does not accept certain types of PCCs (e.g., Certificates of Character).
Special Considerations and Common Mistakes
When submitting a PCC for Canadian immigration, make sure to review the following:
- Certificates of Character are not acceptable in place of police clearance certificates.
- The document must cover the full-time period you lived in that jurisdiction.
- Ensure that the PCC is country-wide and not restricted to a single state or district.
- If the certificate is incomplete or restricted, IRCC may request a new one or consider the application incomplete.
- PCCs have validity periods depending on the issuing country and IRCC requirements. Typically, they must be issued within six months prior to submission unless otherwise noted.
What If You Can’t Obtain a PCC?
In certain situations, it may not be possible to obtain a PCC for example, due to political issues or lack of local administrative infrastructure. In such cases, IRCC allows you to submit:
- A detailed explanation letter outlining the efforts made to obtain the document
- Supporting evidence, such as official correspondence, payment receipts, or rejection letters
While this does not guarantee exemption, it helps immigration officers thoroughly assess the case.
