A Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) is an essential document that proves you have no criminal record in the country where it is issued. In the UAE, this certificate is often required for purposes such as employment, immigration, visa processing, higher education, or starting a business—both within the country and abroad. Whether you are a resident, former resident, or even someone applying from outside the UAE, knowing how to apply for a PCC can save you time and unnecessary stress.
At Al Tawkel Center, we help individuals and companies apply for and obtain their UAE Police Clearance Certificates quickly and legally—without complications. This guide explains what the PCC is, who needs it, and how to get it in the UAE.
What is a Police Clearance Certificate?
A Police Clearance Certificate is an official document issued by the UAE Police Department confirming that an individual has not been involved in any criminal activity while residing in the UAE. It is a crucial requirement for people:
- Applying for permanent residency or immigration to countries like Canada, Australia, the UK, or the USA
- Pursuing higher education abroad
- Starting a new job either inside or outside the UAE
- Launching a business setup or freelance license in the UAE
- Applying for family sponsorship or other visa categories
The certificate is valid for 3 months from the date of issue.
Who Can Apply for a PCC in the UAE?
You can apply for a PCC if you are:
- A current resident living in the UAE
- A former UAE resident who has left the country
- An employer requesting certificates for employees
- A student or job applicant required to submit background verification
Even individuals not currently in the UAE can apply through authorized representatives or embassies, provided they have their UAE Emirates ID or past visa copies.
Documents Required for a Police Clearance Certificate in UAE
To apply for a PCC, you generally need:
- A valid Emirates ID (for residents)
- A copy of your passport with visa page
- Recent passport-size photograph with white background
- Fingerprint card (only for applicants outside the UAE)
- Purpose of application (e.g., immigration, employment)
Al Tawkel Center assists clients in compiling all the required documents and verifying them to ensure there are no delays.
How to Apply for PCC in the UAE
There are three main ways to apply for a Police Clearance Certificate in the UAE:
- Online via the Ministry of Interior (MOI) Portal
Residents can apply through the MOI’s official website or mobile app. You will need a UAE Pass or registered account to access the service.
- Through Dubai Police Smart App or Website
If your residence was in Dubai, you can apply through the Dubai Police portal or app. The service is available in both Arabic and English.
- Through Al Tawkel Center (Offline & Assisted Process)
For those who prefer a hassle-free experience or are no longer in the UAE, Al Tawkel Center provides a complete end-to-end solution. We handle:
- Application preparation
- Document submission
- Fingerprint form (if applying from abroad)
- Payment of fees and official follow-up
- Certificate delivery (digitally or hard copy)
Cost and Timeframe
The cost of a Police Clearance Certificate varies depending on the emirate and method of application. On average:
- AED 100 – 250 (for UAE-issued certificate)
- AED 300 – 500 (for foreign-issued PCC with fingerprint process)
Processing usually takes 2–5 working days if all documents are correctly submitted.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting expired Emirates ID or unclear passport scans
- Applying under the wrong emirate jurisdiction
- Not including a clear reason/purpose for the PCC
- Errors in the fingerprint card submission (for overseas applicants)
To avoid rejections or delays, it’s best to let experienced professionals like Al Tawkel Center handle your application.
Conclusion
Whether you’re applying for immigration, a job, or setting up a business, a Police Clearance Certificate is a critical legal document. Don’t risk rejection or unnecessary delays. Let Al Tawkel Center guide you through the process with full support—online or in person. We provide fast, affordable, and compliant assistance for all UAE emirates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I apply for a UAE PCC if I have left the country?
Yes. You can apply from outside the UAE if you provide a fingerprint card and necessary documents. Al Tawkel Center can handle this for you through our legal representatives. - How long is the PCC valid in the UAE?
The Police Clearance Certificate is valid for 3 months from the date of issue. - Can employers apply for PCC on behalf of employees?
Yes, with proper authorization and documentation. We assist companies in bulk or individual employee applications. - What if I lived in more than one emirate?
You need to apply in the emirate where you last held a valid UAE visa. We’ll help you route it correctly based on your record. - Do I need a UAE mobile number to apply online?
Yes, if you’re using official apps. But with Al Tawkel Center, you don’t need to worry—we apply on your behalf without needing your UAE SIM.