How to get a police certificate – South Africa
If you need to give your fingerprints for a police certificate, this isn’t the same as giving your biometrics (fingerprints and photo) for an application.
Name of the document you need
Police Clearance Certificate
Police certificate and IRCC requirements
You must provide a police certificate when you apply for
- permanent residence
- citizenship
- some temporary residence programs
Check your application package or instructions for details.
How to apply
If you live in South Africa
Apply in person at your local South African Police Service office. Check the South African Police Service website for full instructions.
If you live outside of South Africa
You can apply at your nearest South African embassy or by mail to the South African Police Service office (check Contact information for the full address).
Special considerations
Certificates from Ideco Biometrics are not valid for immigration purposes. Applicants should always request the standard Republic of South Africa police clearance certificate.
Contact information
Address for in-person applications
Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management
South African Police Service
Bothongo Plaza West
CRC Client Service Centre
1st floor, room 14
271 Francis Baard Street
Pretoria
Mailing address
Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management
(For attention: Police Clearance Certificates)
South Africa Police Service
Private Bag X308
Pretoria
South Africa
0001
Email and telephone numbers
For more information about your Police Clearance Certificate, contact the South African Police Service.
Email: crc-nameclear@saps.gov.za
Telephone (South Africa): 012-393-3928
Telephone (international): 27 12 393 3928
Fax number (South Africa): 012-393-3909
Fax number (international): 27 12 393 3909
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