A PCC is an official document issued by the Indian Passport Authority confirming that the applicant has no criminal record in India. It is commonly required for:

• Immigration/visa applications (Australia, UAE, etc.)

• Work permits and job applications abroad

• Long-term residency or PR applications

• Study visas (for some countries)

• Adoption/legal proceedings

 Who Can Apply?

• Indian citizens residing in the UK with a valid Indian passport

• Individuals requiring police verification from India for official use abroad

 If you are no longer an Indian citizen 

 Documents Required

Additional documents may be required if there are name mismatches or multiple addresses.

 How to Apply – Step-by-Step

 Step 1: Register & Fill Online Application

1. Go to:  https://embassy.passportindia.gov.in

2. Register/log in

3. Select “Police Clearance Certificate (PCC)”

4. Complete the application form

5. Print the completed application form

 Step 2: Book Appointment with VFS

• Visit:  https://services.vfsglobal.com/gbr/en/ind

• Book an appointment at your nearest VFS Global Passport & PCC Centre

• Select Police Clearance Certificate as the service

 Step 3: Prepare Your Documents

• Assemble all required originals and self-attested photocopies

• Ensure your Indian address is accurate (for police verification)

• Sign all documents (black or blue ink only)

 Step 4: Visit VFS and Submit Application

• Submit your application in person at VFS

• Submit biometrics (if required)

• Pay the applicable PCC fee + VFS service charge

• Choose optional services like courier and SMS notifications

 Processing Time

Processing time depends on:

• Whether police verification was done previously

• The correctness of Indian address

• Coordination with Indian police authorities

 Fee Structure

All fees are non-refundable and subject to change.

 Delivery of PCC

• You may collect it in person at VFS (with ID + receipt)

• Or receive it via courier if opted during submission

 Important Notes

• PCC will be issued only after police verification in India, if required

• Any discrepancies in name, address, or documents may cause delays or rejection

• Ensure that your Indian address is current and matches your old passport

• If your passport was issued recently with police verification, processing may be faster

• PCC is usually valid for 6 months, depending on the requesting country’s requirements

 Useful Links

 FAQs – Police Clearance Certificate (PCC)

Q1. Can I apply for PCC if I’ve lost my Indian passport?

No. You must first apply for a reissue of your passport, then apply for PCC.

Q2. How long is the PCC valid?

Generally 6 months, unless specified otherwise by the authority requesting it.

Q3. What if my Indian address is very old?

You must provide police verification for that address or update it via passport reissue before applying.

Q4. Can I apply for PCC if I’m applying for Canadian PR or UAE visa?

Yes. These countries commonly request Indian PCC for immigration.