United Arab Emirates Police Clearance FAQs

A police clearance certificate (PCC) from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is essential for individuals applying for immigration, work permits, or residency abroad. It serves as proof of a clean criminal record during your stay in the UAE. Whether you are a current or former UAE resident, obtaining a PCC requires proper documentation and adherence to official procedures.

This detailed post answers the most frequently asked questions about the UAE PCC, covering eligibility, application steps, processing time, fees, and requirements for residents and non-residents.

What is a UAE police clearance certificate, and why is it needed?

A police clearance certificate (PCC) is an official document issued by the UAE authorities to verify that an individual has no criminal record during their stay in the country.

It is often required for:

• Immigration and visa applications (e.g., Canada, Australia, USA).
• Employment abroad (especially government and security-sensitive jobs).
• Residency applications in foreign countries.
• Business setup in the UAE or abroad.
• Adoption procedures and other legal matters.

The UAE PCC is issued by the Ministry of Interior (MOI) or Dubai Police, depending on where the individual resides.

Who can apply for a UAE police clearance certificate?

The UAE PCC can be obtained by:

• Current residents of the UAE.
• Former residents who lived in the UAE but have now left.
• UAE nationals applying for international travel or immigration.

If you have never lived in the UAE, you cannot apply for a PCC from the country.

What documents are required to apply for a UAE police clearance certificate?

To apply for a UAE PCC, you will need:

For current UAE residents:

• A valid Emirates ID copy.
• A copy of your passport with a visa page.
• A recent passport-size photo (white background).
• Completed PCC application form.
• Applicable processing fees.

For former UAE residents (applying from abroad):

• A copy of your passport with UAE visa stamps.
• A fingerprint card is attested by the UAE embassy in your current country.
• A recent passport-size photo.
• A cover letter explaining the purpose of the application.
• Payment of processing fees.

How do I apply for a UAE police clearance certificate?

The UAE offers both online and offline methods for PCC applications.

Online application:

• Visit the MOI website (moi.gov.ae) or the Dubai Police website.
• Create an account and log in.
• Fill out the application form.
• Upload the required documents.
• Make the payment online.
• Receive the PCC electronically via email.

Offline application (for those in the UAE):

• Visit the MOI service center or a Dubai Police station.
• Submit the application form and required documents.
• Provide biometric verification (if needed).
• Pay the processing fee.
• Collect the certificate once it is ready.

Applying from outside the UAE:

• Get your fingerprints taken and attested by the UAE embassy.
• Send documents to a representative in the UAE or apply through the MOI website.
• Pay fees via international payment methods.
• Receive the PCC via email or courier.

How much does a UAE police clearance certificate cost?

The cost varies depending on the emirate and mode of application:

• For UAE residents: AED 100 to AED 200 (varies by emirate).
• For non-residents (abroad): AED 300 to AED 500 (plus courier fees).
• Urgent processing may incur additional charges.

Payments can be made via credit/debit card, online banking, or MOI service centers.

How long does it take to process a UAE police clearance certificate?

The processing time depends on your location:

• For applications within the UAE: 2 to 5 working days.
• For applications from outside the UAE: 5 to 10 working days.
• Urgent requests: Some services offer same-day or 24-hour issuance for an extra fee.

If additional background verification is required, processing may take longer.

How can I verify my UAE police clearance certificate?

Once issued, you can verify your PCC by:

• Checking the QR code on the digital certificate.
• Contacting the MOI or Dubai Police for official verification.
• Using the MOI app to authenticate the certificate.

Most government and immigration authorities accept digitally signed PCCs directly from the UAE authorities.

Can I apply for a UAE police clearance certificate if I have left the country?

Yes, former UAE residents can apply for a PCC outside the country. However, you will need:

• A fingerprint card was attested by the UAE embassy.
• Your previous UAE visa details.
• Proof of stay in the UAE (residence visa stamps).
• A local UAE contact (if required for processing).

Does a UAE police clearance certificate expire?

Yes, the validity of a UAE PCC depends on the requesting authority:

• Most countries require a PCC issued within the last 3 to 6 months.
• If your certificate expires, you must reapply.

Can I get my UAE police clearance certificate attested for use abroad?

Yes, if you need your PCC for a visa or immigration purposes, you may need attestation from the following:

• Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) – UAE.
• UAE embassy of the destination country.
• Notary services (if required by the receiving country).

This ensures international recognition of your PCC.

Can I apply for a UAE police clearance certificate if I have a pending case or fines?

If you have an ongoing legal case, unpaid fines, or any criminal record, your PCC application may be delayed or rejected. The authorities conduct a thorough background check before issuing the certificate.

To improve your chances of approval, follow these steps:

• Clear all outstanding fines: If you have traffic violations or unpaid penalties, settle them before applying.
• Resolve pending cases: If you are involved in an active legal dispute, consult a lawyer and obtain clearance from the relevant UAE courts.
• Check your status online: Dubai Police and the UAE Ministry of Interior allow individuals to check their legal status through online portals before applying.

If your application is rejected, you may request a review or provide additional supporting documents.

Can I authorize someone to apply for a UAE police clearance certificate on my behalf?

If you cannot apply in person, you can authorize a representative to apply for your UAE PCC. However, the UAE government has strict requirements for third-party applications:

• The authorized person must have a power of attorney (POA) legalized by a notary and the UAE embassy (if applying abroad).
• A copy of the applicant’s passport, visa pages, and Emirates ID must be submitted.
• The representative must provide their own Emirates ID and contact details.
• In some cases, a personal authorization letter signed by the applicant may also be required.

Using a legal representative can help expedite the application process, especially for former UAE residents.

What happens if my UAE police clearance certificate application is rejected?

If your application is rejected, it could be due to the following reasons:

• Incomplete or incorrect information provided in the application.
• Unpaid fines or legal cases that need resolution.
• Insufficient proof of residence in the UAE.
• Issues with fingerprint verification (for applicants outside the UAE).

To resolve this, you should:

• Review the rejection reason: Contact the issuing authority (MOI or Dubai Police) to understand why your application was denied.
• Correct errors and reapply: Ensure all documents are accurate and resubmit your application.
• Seek legal assistance: If you suspect a legal issue, consult a lawyer to clear your records before reapplying.

Reapplying with the proper documentation can increase approval chances significantly.

Can I use my UAE police clearance certificate in multiple countries?

Yes, a UAE PCC can be used for multiple purposes in different countries, but it must be adequately attested for each use.

• If applying for immigration (e.g., Canada, Australia, UK), you need to check specific country requirements. Some require PCCs issued within the last 3–6 months.
• Employers may request additional verification from UAE authorities if using it for employment.
• A notarized and apostilled PCC may be required if needed for legal matters.

For worldwide validity, it is recommended to get the PCC attested by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) and the relevant embassy of the destination country.

Can I request a UAE police clearance certificate in Arabic or English?

Yes, UAE PCCs are available in both Arabic and English.

• An Arabic version is typically required if you need it for official use in the UAE.
• If you are applying for immigration or employment abroad, an English version is preferred.
• Some countries may request a bilingual version or an officially translated copy.

If your PCC is in Arabic but needed in English, you can get it translated by a certified legal translator and have it attested by UAE authorities.

What should I do if I lost my UAE police clearance certificate?

You do not need to reapply from scratch if you lose your original PCC. Instead, follow these steps:

• Check your email: A digital copy may be available in your email inbox if you apply online.
• Log into the MOI or Dubai Police portal: You may be able to download a duplicate copy using your application reference number.
• Visit the issuing authority: If you applied in person, you can request a reprint by providing identification.

Some reissuance requests may involve additional fees. It is advisable to store your PCC safely once received.

Can I get my UAE PCC delivered to my home address?

Yes, UAE authorities offer home delivery services for PCCs via:

• MOI UAE official courier service for local applicants.
• International delivery services for applicants residing outside the UAE.
• Email delivery for digital PCCs, which can be printed and used immediately.

Delivery timelines depend on the selected service and destination country.

Do I need a fingerprint card for my UAE PCC application?

A fingerprint card is required only for applicants outside the UAE. If you are applying from abroad, you need to:

• Visit a police department in your current country to have your fingerprints taken.
• Get the fingerprint card attested by the UAE embassy in that country.
• Submit it along with your PCC application online.

Applicants inside the UAE do not need a fingerprint card, as their biometric data is already stored in government records.

Is there a deadline to apply for a UAE police clearance certificate after leaving the UAE?

There is no fixed deadline, but applying within six months to a year after leaving the UAE is best. The longer you wait, the more complicated the process may become.

• If you apply within a few months, you can often retrieve records easily.
• If you wait several years, you may need to provide additional proof of your stay in the UAE.
• If your records are archived, processing may take longer.

Applying as soon as possible after leaving the UAE is advisable to avoid delays.

Can I get a refund if I cancel my PCC application?

Refund policies vary depending on the mode of application:

• For online applications: Most UAE government portals do not offer refunds once the application is processed.
• For in-person applications: If you withdraw before processing begins, you may receive a partial refund after administrative deductions.
• For third-party agencies: Refunds depend on the agency’s policies, and service charges are usually non-refundable.

Before applying, ensure you have all the required documents to avoid unnecessary expenses.

How long is a UAE police clearance certificate valid?

The validity of a UAE police clearance certificate depends on the requirements of the requesting authority rather than a fixed expiry date. Generally:

• For immigration and visa applications, most countries accept a PCC issued within 3 to 6 months.
• Companies may request a recent PCC issued within the last 3 months for employment purposes.
• The validity period for legal or residency-related applications varies based on the country or institution.

Always check the specific validity period required before submitting your PCC to ensure it is accepted.

Can a UAE police clearance certificate be used for multiple applications?

Yes, you can use the same UAE PCC for different applications if it meets the required validity period. However:

• Some organizations may require a freshly issued PCC.
• If the PCC has been stamped and attested for a specific purpose, it may not be accepted for another use.
• Certain immigration authorities may ask for a country-specific version of the certificate.

It’s always best to check with the receiving institution whether they will accept an existing PCC or require a new one.

What should I do if my name is misspelled on my UAE PCC?

If there is a spelling error or incorrect details on your UAE police clearance certificate, you should:

• Contact the issuing authority (Dubai Police or Ministry of Interior) immediately.
• Provide supporting documents (passport, Emirates ID, or any legal document proving the correct name).
• Request a correction and reissue of the certificate.

Corrections are usually processed within a few days but may involve a small administrative fee.

Is a UAE police clearance certificate needed for a UAE visa renewal?

A PCC is not usually required for a UAE visa renewal unless:

• You are applying for a new job with a different employer in the UAE.
• You are applying for UAE citizenship or long-term residency programs.
• You have been involved in any legal case or security check requiring police verification.

Authorities verify your records internally for standard visa renewals without requiring a separate PCC.

Can I apply for a UAE PCC if I overstayed my visa in the UAE?

If you overstayed in the UAE and later left the country, you can still apply for a PCC, but:

• You must clear all overstay fines before applying.
• Authorities may check for immigration bans or pending legal cases.
• If you left on a temporary travel ban, you may need special clearance from UAE immigration before your PCC is processed.

Overstaying in the UAE does not automatically disqualify you from obtaining a police clearance, but unresolved violations can delay or impact approval.

What is the cost of obtaining a UAE police clearance certificate?

The cost of a UAE PCC varies depending on the application method:

• For UAE residents: AED 100–300 (depending on the emirate).
• For former residents applying from abroad: AED 300–500, plus additional fingerprint verification and attestation fees.
• Courier charges: Additional fees apply for international delivery.
• Third-party service providers: Agencies may charge AED 800–1,500 for assistance with documentation and attestation.

Always check the official UAE government portals for the latest fee updates.

Can I apply for a UAE police clearance certificate for my family member?

Yes, you can apply on behalf of a family member if:

• You have legal authorization (power of attorney).
• The applicant is a minor, and you are their parent or legal guardian.
• The person cannot apply themselves and you provide supporting medical documents.

Without proper authorization, you cannot apply for a UAE PCC on behalf of another adult family member.

How do I verify if my UAE police clearance certificate is authentic?

To verify the authenticity of your UAE PCC:

• Check the QR code or barcode on the certificate, which links to the issuing authority’s database.
• Visit the official portal of the Ministry of Interior (MOI) or Dubai Police and enter your PCC reference number to confirm its validity.
• Contact UAE authorities directly to verify the document if you have doubts.

Never rely on third-party agents for verification—always use official UAE channels.

Do I need a UAE police clearance certificate if I stayed in the UAE for less than 6 months?

Most countries do not require a PCC if you live in the UAE for less than 6 months. However:

• Some immigration authorities may still request it if you have a valid residence visa during your stay.
• If you had a criminal record or police case during that time, it might be required.
• Specific jobs (especially government or security-related roles) may request a PCC even for short stays.

Check with the specific country’s requirements before applying.

Can I get my UAE PCC if I was deported from the UAE?

If you were deported from the UAE, obtaining a PCC can be difficult but not impossible. It depends on:

• The reason for deportation (criminal offense, overstay, labor dispute, etc.).
• Whether you have unresolved legal cases or fines in the UAE.
• Your ability to provide valid fingerprints for verification.

In cases of deportation due to minor violations, you may still obtain a PCC by submitting a special request with legal documentation.

Does a UAE police clearance certificate mention past offenses?

A UAE PCC only states whether or not you have a criminal record. It does not include specific details of past offenses.

However, certain government agencies or security-sensitive jobs may request a detailed report requiring additional approval.

Can I use my UAE police clearance certificate to remove a travel ban?

A PCC alone does not lift a travel ban. If you have a travel restriction, you must:

• Check the reason for the ban (financial case, legal dispute, unpaid fines, etc.).
• Contact UAE authorities to settle any pending issues.
• Obtain a clearance letter from the relevant UAE department (immigration, court, or police).

Only after resolving the issue can you reapply for a travel clearance.

How do I request an urgent UAE police clearance certificate?

For urgent processing, apply through:

• Dubai Police Express Service (available for faster processing at an additional fee).
• Third-party agencies offer VIP services, which can speed up attestation and delivery.
• In-person applications at police headquarters may process requests within 24–48 hours for urgent cases.

Urgent applications cost more, but they can reduce waiting times significantly.

Can I apply for a UAE police clearance certificate if I have unpaid fines in the UAE?

If you have unpaid fines in the UAE, you may face delays or rejections when applying for a PCC. Authorities will check for pending traffic fines, visa overstay penalties, or legal fines before issuing the certificate.

• Your minor fines (such as parking violations) may not affect the PCC application.
• If you have outstanding legal fines (related to court cases or serious offenses), you must clear them before your PCC is processed.
• You may need a clearance letter from UAE courts or the relevant authority for major financial penalties.

Permanently settle any pending dues to avoid delays in obtaining your PCC.

Do I need to get my UAE PCC attested before submitting it?

In most cases, you must get your UAE police clearance certificate attested before using it for official purposes outside the UAE.

• For employment or residency abroad: PCC must be attested by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).
• For immigration to another country: Some countries require embassy attestation as well.
• For use within the UAE: No attestation is needed if it’s for local employment or visa applications.

Check the specific requirements of the organization or country you submit the PCC to.

What happens if my UAE police clearance certificate application is rejected?

If your PCC application is rejected, it is usually due to:

• Incomplete or incorrect documents (wrong passport details, missing Emirates ID, etc.).
• Pending legal issues or police cases in the UAE.
• Fingerprint verification failure (if applying from abroad).

To resolve the issue, you should:

• Contact the issuing authority (Dubai Police or Ministry of Interior) to understand the reason for rejection.
• Correct any errors in your documents and reapply.
• Settle any outstanding fines or legal matters before submitting a new request.

If you are unsure why your PCC was rejected, seek legal assistance for clarification.

How do I obtain a UAE PCC for a work permit in another country?

If you are applying for a work permit abroad, you will typically need a UAE police clearance certificate as part of your documentation.

• Apply for the PCC through the Dubai Police or MOI online portal.
• Get the PCC attested by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
• Obtain embassy attestation if required by the country you are applying to.
• Submit the attested PCC to the employer or immigration authorities.

Checking specific requirements with your employer or visa consultant is best to avoid processing delays.

Can I get a UAE PCC if I live in multiple emirates?

Yes, you can obtain a single PCC covering all Emirates where you live. The Dubai Police and Ministry of Interior (MOI) databases are centralized, meaning:

• If you apply in Dubai, your record will be checked for all emirates (Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, etc.).
• Any past legal issues in another emirate may need to be resolved before the PCC is issued.

This ensures your PCC is valid for use across the UAE and internationally.

Is it possible to obtain a UAE PCC without a passport?

A passport is mandatory for applying for a UAE police clearance certificate. However, if your passport is lost or expired, you can:

• Provide a copy of your old passport and proof of renewal or replacement.
• Submit an official identification document (Emirates ID if you are still a UAE resident).
• Attach a police report if your passport was stolen.

Without a valid passport or an alternative official document, your PCC application will not be processed.

Does a UAE PCC include details about civil cases?

A UAE police clearance certificate only confirms whether you have a criminal record. It does not include details about:

• Civil disputes (such as business conflicts, rental disputes, or financial disagreements).
• Family law cases (like divorce or child custody cases).
• Immigration matters (visa rejections, residency denials, etc.).

An organization may ask for additional court records or legal clearances if it requires detailed background checks.

Can I get a UAE PCC if I change my name after leaving the UAE?

If you changed your name after leaving the UAE, you must apply using your old name (the one on your UAE visa or Emirates ID).

• Attach official name change documents (like a marriage certificate or legal affidavit).
• Ensure your fingerprints match your old records for verification.
• Some authorities may require an affidavit confirming your name change.

Always clarify with the issuing body whether additional documents are required.

Do I need to be present in the UAE to apply for a police clearance certificate?

No, you need not be physically present in the UAE to apply for a PCC. If you are outside the UAE:

• You must submit fingerprint verification through a recognized police station in your current country.
• You can apply online through the MOI or Dubai Police portal.
• Your PCC will be sent digitally, or you can request a hard copy couriered to your location.

However, the process may take longer than applications submitted within the UAE.

How do I apply for a UAE PCC if I left the UAE years ago?

Even if you left the UAE several years ago, you can still obtain a PCC.

• Ensure you have your old passport number and Emirates ID (if applicable).
• Complete a fingerprint verification process at an authorized center in your current country.
• Apply online through the UAE Ministry of Interior or Dubai Police.
• Request a courier service if you need a hard copy of the PCC.

Authorities will verify your records from the period you resided in the UAE before issuing the certificate.

Can an employer request a UAE PCC on my behalf?

An employer cannot directly apply for your PCC unless:

• You provide a power of attorney authorizing them to do so.
• The employer is handling visa and security clearance for government jobs.
• You are still in the UAE and provide written consent for them to apply on your behalf.

For most private sector jobs, individuals must apply for their own PCC.

Can a UAE police clearance certificate be issued in multiple languages?

Yes, UAE PCCs can be issued in Arabic or English, based on your preference.

• If you need it in another language (French, Spanish, etc.), you must get it legally translated and attested.
• Some embassies or employers require PCCs to be translated before submission.
• The UAE Ministry of Justice must approve certified translations.

Check whether your receiving authority accepts the English version or requires translation.

Conclusion

A UAE police clearance certificate is essential for many legal, employment, and immigration purposes. You can obtain your PCC hassle-free by understanding the correct process, avoiding mistakes, and ensuring proper documentation.

If you need expert help with your application, attestation, or fingerprint verification, contact our expert team today for a smooth experience and quick process!