How to Get a Police Clearance Certificate for US Visa Applications

This article was last updated and fact checked on October 7, 2024 by Mani Karthik.

When applying for a US visa, especially for an immigrant visa, one of the documents you might need is a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC). This certificate confirms that you don’t have any criminal record in the country where you’ve lived.

For Indian nationals applying for US visas, obtaining a PCC is an essential part of the process, particularly for family-based or employment-based visas.

But how exactly do you get a PCC in India for your US visa application? Let’s break it down.

What is a Police Clearance Certificate?

A Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) is an official document issued by the police or a government agency. It certifies that the applicant does not have any criminal background. For US visa applications, the PCC is usually required for immigrant visas, such as family-based, employment-based, or diversity visas.

If you’ve lived in any country for more than 6 months after the age of 16, you may need to obtain a PCC from each country you’ve resided in.

Tip: You do not need a PCC if you’re applying for a tourist visa or a non-immigrant visa like the H-1B.

Who Needs a Police Clearance Certificate?

The US Department of State usually requires a PCC from visa applicants over the age of 16 if they are applying for:

• Immigrant visas (family-based, employment-based, or diversity visas)
• Fiancé visas (K-1)
• Certain non-immigrant visas, especially if there are concerns about the applicant’s background.

If you’re applying for an immigrant visa from India, you’ll need a PCC issued either by the Indian Passport Office or the local police station. Let’s take a look at both methods.

How to Get a PCC from the Indian Passport Office

The most straightforward way to obtain a Police Clearance Certificate in India is through the Passport Seva Kendra. If you already have an Indian passport, you can apply for a PCC through the Passport Seva website.

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Visit the Passport Seva Website

• Go to the official Passport Seva website.
• Log in with your credentials or register if you’re a new user.

2. Apply for a Police Clearance Certificate

• Once logged in, select the option to apply for a Police Clearance Certificate.
• Fill out the online application form, providing details such as your passport number, current address, and the reason for requesting a PCC (in this case, for a US visa application).

3. Book an Appointment at the Passport Seva Kendra

• After submitting the form, you’ll need to schedule an appointment at your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK).
• Choose the time and date that works for you and pay the processing fee (around ₹500, though this may vary).

4. Attend the Appointment

• Bring your original passport and proof of address to the appointment. You may also need other supporting documents, so check the Passport Seva website for a full list.
• The PSK will process your application, and if there are no issues, they’ll issue your PCC within a few days.

Pro Tip: Make sure all the information on your passport is up to date before applying for a PCC to avoid any delays.

How to Get a PCC from a Local Police Station

If you need a PCC but can’t obtain one through the Passport Seva Kendra, you can also apply through your local police station. Here’s how:

1. Visit Your Local Police Station

• Go to the police station that has jurisdiction over your current address.
• Ask for the forms needed to apply for a Police Clearance Certificate. Some stations may offer this service online, but many still require an in-person visit.

2. Submit Documents

• You’ll need to provide your passport, proof of address, and any other relevant identification.
• Complete the application form, detailing your request for a PCC for a US visa application.

3. Police Verification

• The police will conduct a background check to verify that you have no criminal record.
• If everything checks out, they will issue your Police Clearance Certificate.

Tip: Getting a PCC from a local police station can take longer than the Passport Seva Kendra route, so apply early if you need it for your visa.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Police Clearance Certificate?

The time it takes to get a PCC can vary based on where you apply:

• Passport Seva Kendra: Typically 7–10 business days, assuming there are no issues with your background check.
• Local Police Station: Processing times can vary, but it may take 2–4 weeks, depending on the region.

Pro Tip: Always apply for your PCC well in advance of your US visa interview to avoid any last-minute delays.

Do You Need a PCC from Other Countries?

If you’ve lived outside of India for more than 6 months after turning 16, you’ll need to provide Police Clearance Certificates from those countries as well.

You can typically get this from the respective country’s embassy or consulate, or by applying directly with the police department in that country.

For example:

• USA: Applicants can request an FBI clearance or a state-level PCC, depending on where they lived.
• UK: You can apply for a police certificate online through ACRO.
• Australia: Apply for a National Police Check through the Australian Federal Police website.

Tip: Each country has its own process for obtaining a PCC, so make sure you follow the specific instructions for the country where you lived.

Final Thoughts

Getting a Police Clearance Certificate for your US visa application is an important step in the process. Whether you’re applying through the Passport Seva Kendra or a local police station, make sure you plan ahead and gather all the necessary documents.

Delays in obtaining a PCC can hold up your entire visa application, so it’s essential to start early.

For more detailed information on visa requirements, visit the official US Department of State or USCIS websites.