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Whether you’re applying for a job, immigrating to the UAE, or setting up a business, a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) is a vital document. It proves that you have no criminal record in the country. In Dubai and across the Emirates, this certificate is issued by the police authority of your emirate or via the Ministry of Interior (MOI).
In this article, we outline the step-by-step process of applying for a police clearance certificate online in Dubai or Abu Dhabi. We also cover the required documents, common mistakes to avoid, and how ExpressPRO can support you throughout the process.
Why Do You Need a Police Clearance Certificate in the UAE?
You may need a police clearance certificate in the UAE to:
- Apply for a residency, employment visa or an investor visa.
- Migrate to another country (e.g., Canada, UK, Australia).
- Obtain a business license or work permit.
- Register for higher education or professional licensing.
- Complete marriage or legal documentation.
A police clearance certificate verifies that the applicant has no criminal record during their stay in the UAE. Most certificates are valid for 30 to 90 days, depending on the authority that requests them.
Documents Required to Apply for a Police Clearance Certificate
Before applying, ensure you have the necessary documents ready. Requirements vary depending on whether you are applying from within the UAE or from abroad.
For Current UAE Residents:
- Emirates ID (valid).
- Passport copy with residency visa page.
- Recent passport-size photo.
For Former Residents Applying from Abroad:
- Passport copy (including pages showing previous UAE visas).
- Passport-size photo.
- A fingerprint card issued by the local police in your country.
- Fingerprint card attested by the UAE embassy.
- Optional: Old Emirates ID copy.
Fingerprint cards allow UAE authorities to verify your identity if you’re no longer in the country. The attestation ensures the document is legally accepted.
How to Apply for a Police Clearance Certificate in Dubai
You can apply online through the Dubai Police website or the Dubai Police smart app (available on iOS and Android). The process is straightforward, allowing residents and citizens to apply digitally from within or outside the UAE.
1. Visit the Dubai Police Portal
Visit dubaipolice.gov.ae and log in using your UAE Pass or a registered account.
2. Click on “Certificate Services”
From the homepage menu, select Certificate Services to access a list of available certificates.
3. Select “Police Clearance Certificate”
This will open the application form.
4. Choose Your User Type
Select whether you are a citizen/resident inside the UAE or an applicant outside the country.
5. Enter Emirates ID
Mandatory for current residents.
6. Specify the Certificate Purpose
Options include employment, immigration, education, etc.
7. Choose the Type of Requesting Party
For example, a government entity, an embassy, or a private organization.
8. Select Certificate Language
Choose either English or Arabic based on where you will use the certificate.
9. Enter Your Email Address
Add and confirm a valid email where the certificate will be delivered.
10. Accept the Terms and Verify the Captcha
Agree to the terms and conditions and complete the visual captcha (e.g., select the happy face).
11. Upload the Required Documents
These include:
- Emirates ID (front and back).
- Passport with a visa page.
- Passport-size photo.
12. Pay the Applicable Fees
- Citizens: AED 100 (USD 27).
- Residents: AED 200 (USD 54).
- Outside UAE: AED 300 (USD 82).
- Knowledge and innovation fee: AED 20 (USD 5.50).
- Optional: AED 100 (USD 27) if applying at a police service center.
13. Receive Your Certificate
Processing time is usually 1 to 2 working days. The certificate is sent via email or can be downloaded from your Dubai Police account.
If needed, you may visit a Dubai Police station or the General Department of Criminal Investigation (CID). This method includes a service fee of AED 100 (USD 27) in addition to standard charges.
Source: Dubai Police
How to Apply for a Police Clearance Certificate in Abu Dhabi
Residents in Abu Dhabi and other emirates (such as Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, etc.) can apply for a police clearance certificate through the MOI UAE website or the MOI UAE smart app.
1. Log In Using UAE Pass
Visit the MOI Services page and log in with your UAE Pass credentials. If you do not have a UAE Pass, you must register using your Emirates ID or passport.
2. Select “Issuance of Clear Criminal Record Certificate”
From the list of e-services, choose “Issuance of Clear Criminal Record Certificate” under the Criminal Status Services section.
3. Choose the Purpose of the Certificate
Examples include employment, immigration, education, or licensing.
4. Select the Intended Use
Indicate whether the certificate is for inside the UAE or outside the UAE.
5. Choose Certificate Language
Select between Arabic and English, depending on the authority requesting it.
6. Enter Personal Details
This includes the Emirates ID (for residents), passport number, mobile phone number, and email address.
7. Upload the Required Documents
Depending on your application type (resident or non-resident), you may need to upload:
- Emirates ID.
- Passport copy with visa page.
- Passport-size photograph.
- Fingerprint card attested by a UAE embassy (if applying from abroad).
8. Pay the Service Fee
- AED 50 (USD 13) for certificates used within the UAE.
- AED 100 (USD 27) for certificates used abroad.
- AED 50 (USD 13) biometric processing fee (only if the Emirates ID is not available).
- Optional: AED 300 (USD 82) for MOFA attestation if selected within the MOI service.
9. Submit the Application
After reviewing the information and confirming the fee payment, submit the request.
10. Receive the Certificate
The digital certificate is typically issued within a few hours to two business days and is sent via email or is available for download from your MOI user account.
Source: Ministry of Interior
Using Your Police Clearance Certificate Outside the UAE
If you’re submitting the certificate to a foreign government or institution, attestation is required.
1. MOFAIC Attestation
- Complete the attestation here via the MOFAIC website or at Customer Happiness Centers.
- Fee: AED 150–300 (USD 41–82).
2. Embassy or Consulate Legalization
- Submit the MOFA-attested certificate to the embassy of the destination country.
- Additional requirements and fees vary by country.
This process ensures international authorities recognize your certificate.
Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Common Mistakes That Delay Police Clearance Certificate Processing
Avoid the following to prevent application delays:
- Incorrect file format: Upload only high-resolution JPEGs or PDFs.
- Inconsistent personal details: Double-check your name, ID, and passport number.
- Expired certificate: Many authorities require PCCs issued in the past 30–90 days.
- Missing attestation: For international use, attestation is mandatory.
- Failing to track the application: Always save your reference number for follow-up.
What Happens If You Make a Mistake?
If your police clearance certificate application contains errors or missing documents, it may be rejected outright or experience significant delays. In many cases, applicants are asked to reapply and pay the service fees again.
For certificates intended for use outside the UAE, even minor issues, such as a mismatch in name spelling or an incorrect document, can result in the certificate being refused by foreign authorities. Taking the time to double-check your application before submission helps you avoid unnecessary delays and extra costs.
How ExpressPRO Can Help With Your Police Clearance Certificate Application
ExpressPRO simplifies the entire police clearance process for both UAE-based and overseas applicants. We provide:
- End-to-end PRO services for document processing.
- Help with fingerprinting, translations, and attestation.
- Guidance for expatriates and foreign investors.
- Support for residency, visa, and company setup applications.
Need assistance applying for your police clearance certificate?
Contact us today and let us manage the paperwork so you can focus on your goals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I apply for a police clearance certificate without an Emirates ID?
Yes. If you’re applying from abroad or have never held an Emirates ID, use your passport. Include a fingerprint card attested by the UAE embassy.
Do I need to apply separately for each emirate where I’ve lived?
No. A single certificate issued through the MOI portal covers all emirates.
How can I verify the authenticity of a police clearance certificate?
Each certificate includes a QR code or reference number. Verify it on the Dubai Police or MOI website.
Can someone else apply for my police clearance certificate on my behalf?
Yes. You’ll need a notarized power of attorney and all required documents.
Can I use the same police clearance certificate for multiple purposes?
Possibly. However, some institutions require a certificate addressed to them. Check with the requesting party.
