Last updated on April 11th, 2022
I was not asked to provide PCC while filing my citizenship application. However, my wife was asked to provide one. So here is her account of how she got the Indian PCC for Australian citizenship application.
Once I prepared Australian citizenship application, I was asked to provide a list of supporting documents. Police Clearance Certificate a.k.a. PCC was one of them. If you were out of Australia for 12 months or more and if you stayed in any country for 90 days or more, you need to provide PCC for each such country.
Please note that this has nothing to do with whether you are the primary or secondary applicant. Since I was in India for more than 6 months after I got my visa and stayed in India for 6 more months after my validation trip, I had to provide PCC.
Don’t worry, you don’t have to manually calculate PCC eligibility. Once you file your citizenship application, the system will tell you whether you need to provide one.
PCC Online Application
One important thing to know before applying for PCC is that your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of the PCC application.
Indian PCC can only be applied through VFS Global in Australia. Getting Indian PCC is a two-step process. First, you need to complete an online application form on the Indian embassy site – https://embassy.passportindia.gov.in/. You need to register on the site first before you can fill the application form.
The online application is divided into 7 sections:
1. Passport details. One tricky detail here is File number. Don’t worry, you will find it on the last page of your passport, below the address and starts with PN.
2. Applicant details
3. Family details such as the name of your parents and/or spouse
4. Your permanent address in India and current residential address in Australia with contact details. If you don’t have Indian phone number active, provide a number of your parents or sibling. You also need to select relevant police station for your address in India.
5. A simple yes/no about your criminal background
6. A Review of Details which will be printed on your PCC letter
7. Review of the entire application form
Tip
Use the address mentioned on your Indian Passport as the permanent address in the application unless it is changed. This will avoid any unnecessary queries and delays in processing your PCC.
At any point during application, you can save the application and resume later. Once you submit the application, you need to download the form, print and sign it. Along with the application, you need to manually fill and sign below 2 documents:
1. PCC Checklist – This is simply a checklist of documents that you need to submit along with the PCC application. Just tick the ones which are relevant to you and sign at the end.
2. Personal Particulars form – You need to provide your name, address, permanent India address and current Australian address. You also need to provide the name of the police station near your permanent address in India. This is same as what you chose in the online application form.
You also need to give name, address and contact details of two references who can vouch for your addresses. I provided one reference for each address – one for Indian address and one for Australian address. It’s a good idea to let both references know that you provided their contact details in the PCC form, though usually they won’t be contacted.
Apart from the documents, you need to provide two passport size photographs. You can try to take photos as per VFS guidelines but I prefer Australia post. It costs a little but I prefer the peace of mind over money.
How To Submit Documents
Once I had these two documents ready along with the application form, I had two options:
1) send them via Australia Post or courier or,
2) submit them in person
Though VFS recommends sending them via express post or courier, I didn’t do so for two reasons:
1) It adds an unnecessary delay in the process and,
2) If there is any query about any of the document, there might be a delay in going back and forth with VFS. In the worst-case scenario, your application might be rejected altogether.
Maybe I am paranoid, but I like to play safe. So I chose to visit the VFS office in person.
Visiting VFS Facility
To visit the VFS office, you need to book an appointment. So once I had everything ready, I went to VFS Online Booking system to book an appointment.
Booking an appointment is simple. All you need is a passport number and your contact details. Once the booking is confirmed, I downloaded and printed the appointment letter.
I carried below documents for my appointment to the VFS Melbourne centre:
1. Latest Indian passport
2. Signed application form
3. Signed PCC checklist
4. Personal particulars form
5. Two photographs (I carried the photographs separately without pasting them on the form)
6. Appointment letter
Depending on your VFS centre, you might be asked to submit the passport. So keep in mind that if you have a citizenship interview scheduled, you might not have a passport for the interview. In such a case, it is better to reschedule the interview. Since you must carry all the documents in original and passport is one of the important documents, you will be asked to reschedule your interview if you don’t have the passport with you. In my case, I had just submitted the citizenship application so I had plenty of time to submit PCC.
Tip
If you submitted the passport for PCC and have citizenship interview scheduled in the near future, either reschedule the interview or call DIBP explaining your circumstances. This will help you avoid problems during the citizenship interview.
Cost of Indian PCC
Indian PCC cost varies slightly depending on many factors:
1) How are you going to submit an application – in person or by courier?
2) How are you going to collect documents – in person or by courier?
3) How do you pay – cash, credit card, debit card or postal order?
4) Do you need SMS notification?
5) Which state do you live in?
In my case, I opted to submit in person and collect by courier. Also, I opted for SMS notifications. Since I paid with a debit card, it cost me approximately 67$ AUD (66.82 AUD to be exact). You can find out how much it will cost using the online calculator.
Indian PCC Processing Time
You may receive PCC within 5 – 45 working days according to VFS website. One of my friend’s wife got her PCC in just 2 days as her Indian passport was renewed from Australia. In my case, it took a little more than a month to get my PCC.
To conclude, PCC is a time-consuming process. But the good thing is that you don’t need PCC before submitting citizenship application. That way you can save time and have PCC ready by the time case officer asks for it.
Freqently Asked Questions
Since I received so many questions on this article, I could see that a lot of people are not clear about certain aspects of this process. Hence I decided to get in touch with various VFS offices to clarify some of these questions. Below are some of the answers I received from them.
In Personal Particulars form, what should be the Permanent address in question 8(a) and what should be the Residential address in question 8(b)?
The permanent address should be your Indian address and the residential address should be your current Australian address.
What needs to be filled for Question 9 if I haven’t lived at the current residential address for one year?
There seem to be different interpretations by different VFS offices. So I will mention their responses as is.
Adelaide VFS: If you have not lived at the current address in Australia for more than a year, please fill your previous address in 9A (you will need 3 photos and two personal particulars form).
If in the 9A address you have not lived for more than a year, please fill the previous address in 9B (you will need 4 photos and 3 personal particulars form). (This is by far the most logical answer!)
Melbourne VFS: Form says you need to fill the additional form but a single form would suffice. Please do not fill additional forms. (My most favourite answer – no fuss!)
Sydney VFS: Keep Q9 blank. (WTF! Didn’t expect this. I guess they don’t want any hassle)
In Personal Particulars form, if I lived on the address given in question 9(a) for more than a year, do I still need to provide another address in question 9(b)?
No
Should I paste the photos on the form or should I send them with the application?
Melbourne VFS: No need to paste the photos. We will paste it for you.
Sydney VFS: You can either paste the photos or send them with the application. Either way is fine.
Do I need to send original passport along with the application or I can send a photocopy? I am not comfortable sending original passport via post.
You must send the original passport. Photocopy or prints are not acceptable, even if they are attested by the notary. On the other hand, all the centres except VFS Melbourne are accepting in-person applications at the moment. So if you are not comfortable sending via post, book an appointment and visit in person.
In Personal Particulars form, should the references in question 10 be from India or Australia?
You need to provide two references from India who are not your parents or siblings. References can be your uncle/aunt, neighbours or friends.
So that was my experience of getting Indian PCC and it was relatively smooth compared to the other stories I heard. What was your experience? Did you face any delays or multiple round-trips for PCC? Let me know in the comments below.
Read other articles in this series:
- My Journey To Australian Citizenship : Getting Eligible
- My Journey To Australian Citizenship : Gathering Documents
- My Journey To Australian Citizenship: Citizenship Application
- My Journey To Australian Citizenship : Citizenship Test Preparation
- The Australian Citizenship Test: My Experience
- Virtual Citizenship Ceremony: An Incredible Experience
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FAQs
How long does it take to get Indian police clearance certificate in Australia? ›
At CVCheck, we're connected directly to international databases, so your Indian Police Clearance certificate could be completed in as little as 5 business days*. Order on the go via our website by simply submitting your personal details and providing copies of your identification.
Can I get PCC from India while living in Australia? ›All the Indian students who are currently studying or have completed studies in Australia will get their PCC certificate from Indian High Commission located in Australia. The applicant's passport must be valid for 6 months. To submit an application for PCC, there are various forms to be submitted.
How long does it take to get PCC from Indian Embassy? ›What is the processing Time? PCC can be issued only after receipt of a 'Clear' report from Police authorities in India which is to be made available in the system by the concerned Passport office. This process may take 8 weeks. PCC can be issued earlier provided a 'Clear' report is received.
Is PCC mandatory for Australia visa? ›All visa applicants aged 16 and over require a police clearance if they are applying for permanent entry to Australia, and most other applicants require a clearance if their stay in Australia will exceed 12 months.
Is Indian PCC required for Australian citizenship? ›You need an overseas penal clearance certificate if, in the last 10 years: you lived or travelled overseas since the age of 18 years, and. the total time you spent overseas adds up to 12 months or more, and. the total time you spent in any one country adds up to 90 days or more.
What is the processing time of PCC? ›120 business days
In some cases more time may be required due to the submission of incomplete information or in an effort to clarify parts of the application with local police.
The PCC is valid for a period of 6 months and can be applied before if there is any expectation of its requirement for PR or renewal of work permit/study permit, etc.
Can I get a PCC directly from India? ›You can get PCC only after receiving a 'clear' report from police authorities in India. You can check the PCC status made by the concerned passport office in the official portal. Usually, this process may take up to 1 month.
How long is PCC valid for Australia? ›For Australian immigration purposes a police clearance certificate is deemed to be valid for 12 months from the issue date.
How can I get urgent PCC in India? ›Intended Applicants can book the appointments to the nearest Operational PSK/POPSK. Refer Latest News Section for Operational PSK and POPSK List. In case of emergency/medical cases and if none of the PSKs are operational, applicant may approach the concerned Passport Office.
How can I get PCC from Indian Embassy in Australia? ›
- In Person : Level 12, Suite 4, 55 Swanston St Melbourne Vic-3000.
- By Post : PO Box 23057 DOCKLANDS VIC 3008.
- Working Hours : 8.30 AM to 3.00 PM (Mon to Fri)
- Phone No : 03 9956 3830.
A valid Indian Passport is must for accepting PCC application. Application shall not be accepted from those who are on a Tourist/Visitor visa.
Why does Australia need PCC? ›Police Clearance Certificate is a document that is issued by the Australian Federal Police National Police Check (NPC), certifying that the applicant has never partaken in any criminal activity that led to the involvement of the AFP (NPC), and is also required when a person applies for an immigration status to other ...
Do I need to be physically present for PCC? ›The individual will not have to physically present himself before the concerned authority for submission of application or for collection of the certificate. However, the applicant may be asked to visit the local police station for a brief background check..
Is PCC valid for 2 years? ›If you are an Indian citizen age 16 or older and residing in India, you need to obtain a police clearance certificate from a Regional Passport Office. This certificate is valid for one year from the date of issuance.
Do I have to surrender my Indian passport after getting Australian citizenship? ›Indian passport holders who have acquired foreign citizenship are required to surrender their Indian passports to the nearest India Passport & Visa Services centre immediately after acquisition of foreign citizenship.
What happens when PCC gets rejected? ›If he finds inauthentic detail, he rejects the police clearance. The same report (of rejected or approved verification) of the PCC is sent to the SP office nearby your location. The SP office forwards that inquiry report to the PSK. Once the verification is positively completed, you get a soft copy of your passport.
What happens after PCC application? ›Once your payment is done successfully, your application will be submitted and a unique number of PCC is generated which is mentioned on the certificate and should be used for further references.
What happens after PCC is printed? ›PCC will be dispatched to the current address of the applicant. The applicant would receive an SMS once the PCC is ready for dispatch." on PSK India site. Aug 13 - Status changed to “Police Clearance Certificate has been printed successfully on 13/08/2020 and will be dispatched to your current address.”
Who gives PCC India? ›Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) is issued by the High Commission, certifying the person's criminal record with the Indian police. It is generally required when a person applies for a visa/ permanent residency. Complete one-time registration and create a USER ID.
How can I check my police clearance status? ›
To know the latest status of your application, please write PCC S followed by your application reference number and send an SMS to 26969. The return SMS will provide you the latest application status.
How long is my PCC valid for? ›A PCC is usually valid for one year from the date of issue, but you'll need to provide a PCC that was issued within the past 6 months from your current country of residence.
How much does PCC cost in India? ›How much do I have to pay for Police Clearance Certificate (PCC)? A: The fee to be paid for Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) is Rs. 500/-.
How much does police clearance certificate cost in India? ›The fee for the application form is Rs 500/- and the applicant can make payment using a credit or debit card or with the Internet banking account. Step 6: Then click the “Print Application Receipt” option to print the application form.
Can I reapply PCC? ›For issue of fresh/re-issue of Passport and PCC, applicant should fill in the application form online at www.passportindia.gov.in .
How long does PCC take in Sydney? ›You may receive PCC within 5 – 45 working days according to VFS website.
Can I walk in to get police clearance? ›Personal appearance at a police station is still required, though, for capturing the applicant's biometrics. Before this online system was implemented, a walk-in police clearance application usually took 30 minutes to an hour.
Can I get PCC from any Passport office in India? ›PCC can be issued only after receipt of a 'Clear' report from Police authorities in India which is to be made available in the system by the concerned Passport office.
Can we get PCC in Tatkal? ›Passport Tatkaal Appointment Slots. PCC service Appointments are enabled in POPSKs from Wednesday 28 Sep 2022.Please refer to Appointment Availability status link for further details.
How do I get a police certificate for Australian citizenship? ›Apply for a police certificate
Contact your nearest Australian immigration overseas office if a country you lived in is not listed or you cannot get a certificate. To apply for an Australian police certificate you must submit an Australian Federal Police National Police Check application form.
How long does it take for an Indian to get Australian citizenship? ›
Any adult who became a permanent resident on or after 1 July 2007 must have been lawfully residing in Australia for four years immediately before applying for Australian citizenship. This includes: 12 months as a permanent resident. absences from Australia of no more than 12 months.
Do we need to submit original passport for Indian PCC? ›15 Requirements for Police Clearance Certificate (PCC). Ans. An application form for miscellaneous services duly filled in, original passport and a photocopy of first five and last two pages of the passport, along with one recent passport size photograph need to be submitted.
Does address on passport matters for PCC? ›The PCC is issued to you on the same day at passport office with the address mentioned on the passport. The passport address is the main address.
Is PCC required for Australia PR? ›For Australia, PR country asks for following set of documents: Application Form: Need to fill and sign by the user. PCC (Police Clearance Certificate): PCC is required from all countries that you live in the past 10yrs for more than 12months.
What documents are needed for police clearance certificate? ›The certificate confirms whether you have a criminal record or not. You must provide your full name, surname, date of birth and identity document or passport to the police at the police station where your finger prints will be taken.
Is Indian PCC valid for 2 years? ›INDIAN POLICE CLEARANCE CERTIFICATE: If you are an Indian citizen age 16 or older and residing in India, you need to obtain a police clearance certificate from a Regional Passport Office. This certificate is valid for one year from the date of issuance.
How do I renew my PCC certificate? ›- Submission of the online renewal application with appropriate documentation. ...
- Participation in at least* 40 hours of Continuing Coach Education completed in the three years since the initial award of your credential or since your last credential renewal.
Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) is required by Indian passport holders if they are planning to stay for a long period in a foreign country. A Police Clearance Certificate is issued to Indian Passport holders if they have applied for residential status, employment or long-term visa, or immigration.
How long does it take to get police clearance certificate in Australia? ›Most National Police Checks are completed and posted within 48 hours of the AFP receiving the application. Name and Fingerprint National Police Checks may take 15-30 business days as the fingerprints you supply need to be examined by AFP Forensic services.
How can I get Indian police clearance certificate from abroad? ›- Know your police clearance certificate type and documentation required for Police clearance certificate types. Determine which Police clearance certificate services you need and check the required documentation. ...
- File your application online at government of India website. ...
- Track your application Status.
How long does it take to get a police certificate in India? ›
What Is the Police Clearance Certificate Processing Time in India? You can get PCC only after receiving a 'clear' report from police authorities in India. You can check the PCC status made by the concerned passport office in the official portal. Usually, this process may take up to 1 month.
How do I know if my police clearance is ready? ›TRACK PROGRESS OF YOUR POLICE CLEARANCE CERTIFICATE APPLICATION AT THE CRIMINAL RECORDS CENTRE, PRETORIA. VISIT https://www.saps.gov.za/services/certificate.php .
Can I get a police clearance immediately? ›How long does it take before the Clearance Certificate is issued? The average time is approximately 14 working days from the day that the complete application is received at the Criminal Record Centre until the Clearance Certificate is issued.
Is it fast to get police clearance? ›This process won't take long. Wait for your name to be called for the release of your police clearance. However, if your application got a hit, you'll have to undergo another verification process. Once it's settled, you can already claim your police clearance.
How long is the Indian PCC valid for? ›The PCC is valid for a period of 6 months and can be applied before if there is any expectation of its requirement for PR or renewal of work permit/study permit, etc. Emergency PCC: Please note that there is no emergency PCC.
Do I need to submit original passport for PCC? ›A valid Indian Passport is must for accepting PCC application. Application shall not be accepted from those who are on a Tourist/Visitor visa.
Which countries require PCC from India? ›This clearance is necessary only if the Indian is going to the country for employment, and no other purpose. These 17 countries are Afghanistan, Bahrain, Iraq, Indonesia, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Jordan, Libya, Lebanon, Malaysia, Oman, Qatar, Sudan, Syria, Thailand, UAE and Yemen.
Can I apply PCC from anywhere? ›You can live in multiple states and get PCC from anywhere as long as it is from PSK. They do their verification before issuing the document and officially it is a letter issued by the Ministry of External Affairs. So does not matter if its from Kerala or Karnataka.
What if my PCC is rejected? ›The same report (of rejected or approved verification) of the PCC is sent to the SP office nearby your location. The SP office forwards that inquiry report to the PSK. Once the verification is positively completed, you get a soft copy of your passport.
Does VFS do police clearance? ›This service is only available to applicants who are submitting an application at VFS for a temporary residence visa or a permanent residence permit. Foreign nationals who need to obtain a police clearance certificate for any other purpose should still request such at the South African Police Service.