SAPS Police Clearance Certificate

Need a Police Clearance Certificate from South Africa (SAPS PCC) for a visa, residency, employment or immigration application? Road2Asia handles the full process end-to-end so you get a correct, apostille-ready Police Clearance Certificate without the usual delays.

A South African Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) is the official document issued after a criminal-record check by the South African Police Service (SAPS). It confirms whether convictions are recorded against an individual and is commonly required for visa and immigration applications, overseas employment, study and professional registration.

What Road2Asia does for you

• Complete submission & follow-up: We check your completed application, submit to the Criminal Record Centre in Pretoria on your behalf, and proactively follow up until the certificate is issued.

• Fingerprint processing: We guide you on correct fingerprint capture (black ink on SAPS forms) and we also accept couriered fingerprint sets so there’s no need to return to South Africa.

• Secure collection & verification: Once issued, we collect the original PCC, verify details with a high-resolution scan, and only dispatch after your confirmation.

• Apostille & legalisation options: If your destination requires an apostille or further legalisation, we arrange DIRCO legalisation processing and embassy authentication services so your PCC will be recognised overseas. (DIRCO legalisation are the internationally accepted route for South African public documents.)

• Certified translation & courier: Need a translated PCC or expedited courier? We coordinate sworn translations and worldwide delivery to your address via DHL Express.

Turnaround and validity

Processing times vary depending on SAPS systems and current volumes. While fast-track options are available, government processing can extend timelines; applicants should expect variability and plan accordingly. A Police Clearance Certificate is typically considered valid for around six months for many immigration authorities — always confirm the exact validity requirement with your receiving authority. However, some countries only accept Police Clearance Certificates of no older than three months.

Why South Africans choose us

Road2Asia specialises in immigration documents and apostille services for South Africans applying to Asia and all other continents. Our team combines hands-on document handling with clear guidance on embassy, consulate and Home Affairs requirements — reducing rejected applications, avoiding common fingerprint or form errors, and saving you time. We keep you updated at every step and provide a single point of contact from submission through delivery.

How to track your status

(1) Visit the Official SAPS Dashboard.

(2) Insert your reference number received via SMS on your South African (+27) number.

(3) Insert your South African ID number or Date of Birth if you are a foreign national.

(4) Submit your request to receive an update on the status of your Police Clearance Certificate.

Frequently Asked Questions

(1) How do I get my Police Clearance Application started?

Download the SAPS 91 (a) Application Form and SAPS 91 (a) Fingerprint Form.

Get your fingerprints done at your nearest South African Police Station or South African Embassy.

After we confirm that all is in order, have it couriered to our offices in Pretoria, South Africa.

(2) How long does it take?

We can get your Police Clearance Certificate in the specified time frame that you select. The quickest time frame is 7-14 days.

(3) Can I apply from Abroad?

Yes, you can apply from anywhere abroad by couriering your fingerprints to us in Pretoria, South Africa.

(4) What documents does SAPS need for fingerprints?

You have to take a certified copy of your ID with, along with R200 (fees as of 2026) for the Application.

(5) I am a foreigner, can I still apply for a Clearance?

Yes, you can. As long as you have proof that you are residing in South Africa.

(6) How long is my Police Clearance valid for?

It is valid for no longer than six months. However, some Embassies require Police Clearance Certificates that are no older than three months.

(7) Can I apply for a Visa with a Clearance from Postnet?

No, you can not. Embassies and International Authorities only accept physical SAPS 91(a) Police Clearances.

(8) How will I receive my Police Clearance?

We will send you digital scans and also have the physical Police Clearance couriered to the address specified on your order.