If you’re planning to live, work, study, or start a business in the UAE, a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) is one of the key documents you’ll need.

This official certificate confirms that you have no criminal record in the country, and it’s often required for visa applications, job placements, immigration, or legal procedures.

In this 2025 guide, we walk you through the complete process of obtaining a police clearance certificate in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or other emirates.

You’ll learn what documents are required, how to apply online or from abroad, and how G12.ae can help streamline the process for you.

Why Do You Need a Police Clearance Certificate in the UAE?

A Police Clearance Certificate is a legal document that verifies your criminal record status in the UAE. It’s often requested by employers, government departments, and foreign embassies.

Common reasons for needing a PCC include:

• Applying for a UAE residence or employment visa

• Immigrating to countries like Canada, Australia, or the UK

• Registering a new business in the UAE

• Obtaining a work permit or professional license

• Enrolling in university or higher education institutions

• Completing marriage or legal documentation

Most police clearance certificates are valid for 30 to 90 days, depending on the organization requesting them.

Required Documents for UAE Police Clearance Certificate

The documents you’ll need vary depending on whether you’re applying from within the UAE or from abroad.

For UAE Residents:

• Valid Emirates ID

• Passport copy (including visa page)

• Recent passport-size photograph

For Former UAE Residents (Applying from Abroad):

• Passport copy (with pages showing your UAE visa history)

• Passport-size photograph

• Fingerprint card issued by your local police station

• Fingerprint card attested by the UAE Embassy

• Optional: Copy of your old Emirates ID

The fingerprint card is used to verify your identity outside the UAE and must be attested to ensure legal validity.

How to Apply for a Police Clearance Certificate in Dubai

Dubai residents and former residents can apply online via the Dubai Police website or smart app, available on both iOS and Android. The process is fully digital and user-friendly.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Visit the Dubai Police Portal
   Go to dubaipolice.gov.ae and log in using UAE Pass or a registered account.

2. Access Certificate Services
   From the main menu, select “Certificate Services.”

3. Choose Police Clearance Certificate
   This will open the application form.

4. Identify Your User Type
   Select whether you’re a resident in the UAE or an overseas applicant.

5. Enter Emirates ID (if applicable)
   This is mandatory for residents.

6. Specify the Purpose of the Certificate
   Choose from employment, immigration, education, etc.

7. Select the Requesting Organization
   Options include government, embassy, or private sector.

8. Choose Certificate Language
   Select English or Arabic based on where the certificate will be used.

9. Enter Your Email Address
   This is where your certificate will be sent.

10. Accept Terms and Verify Captcha
    Agree to the terms and complete the security check.

11. Upload Required Documents
    Ensure the files are high-resolution JPEGs or PDFs.

12. Pay the Application Fee

• AED 100 for UAE citizens

• AED 200 for residents

• AED 300 for overseas applicants

• Add AED 20 for knowledge and innovation fees

• Additional AED 100 if applying in person at a service center

13. Receive Your Certificate
    Processing usually takes 1 to 2 working days. Certificates are emailed or available for download from your Dubai Police account.

How to Apply for a Police Clearance Certificate in Dubai or Other Emirates

Residents in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, and other emirates can apply through the Ministry of Interior (MOI UAE) website or smart app.

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Log In with UAE Pass
   Visit MOI.gov.ae and log in with your UAE Pass or register using your Emirates ID or passport.

2. Select ‘Issuance of Clear Criminal Record Certificate’
   Find this option under the Criminal Status Services section.

3. Choose the Purpose
   Select why you need the certificate: work, study, immigration, etc.

4. Select Usage Location
   Choose whether the certificate is for use inside or outside the UAE.

5. Choose the Language
   Pick either Arabic or English.

6. Enter Personal Information
   This includes your Emirates ID, passport number, mobile number, and email.

7. Upload Documents
   Requirements vary by residency status and include passport, visa page, Emirates ID, and fingerprint card (if abroad).

8. Pay the Fees

   • AED 50 for UAE use

   • AED 100 for international use

   • AED 50 biometric fee (if Emirates ID is missing)

   • Optional: AED 300 for MOFA attestation

9. Submit Application
   Confirm your details and proceed to payment.

10. Receive Your Certificate
    You’ll typically receive your PCC within a few hours to two business days via email or in your MOI dashboard.

Using Your UAE Police Clearance Certificate Abroad

To make your certificate valid outside the UAE, you’ll need to go through attestation and legalization steps.

1. MOFAIC Attestation

Use the MOFAIC website or visit a Customer Happiness Center.
Fees: AED 150 to AED 300

2. Embassy Legalization

After MOFAIC attestation, submit the certificate to the embassy or consulate of the destination country.
Requirements and fees vary by country.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these errors to ensure a smooth application:

• Uploading blurry or unsupported file types

• Entering incorrect personal details

• Submitting expired certificates (most expire after 90 days)

• Forgetting attestation for overseas use

• Losing your application reference number

What If You Make a Mistake?

If you submit incorrect or incomplete information, your application could be rejected or delayed. In most cases, you’ll need to reapply and repay the fees. For international use, even small errors like a spelling mismatch can cause your certificate to be rejected by authorities.

Double-check everything before you submit.

How G12 Can Help

At G12, we offer expert assistance to make your police clearance process fast and hassle-free.

Our services include:

• Step-by-step guidance for UAE and non-UAE applicants

• Assistance with fingerprinting and attestation

• Professional translation of documents

• Help with visa, residency, and business setup procedures

Whether you’re an expat, investor, or student, we’ll handle the paperwork so you can stay focused on what matters most.

Need help getting your Police Clearance Certificate in the UAE?
Contact G12 today and let our PRO team manage the entire process for you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I apply for a police clearance certificate without an Emirates ID?
Yes. If you’re applying from abroad, you can apply using your passport and a fingerprint card attested by the UAE embassy.

Do I need separate certificates for each emirate I lived in?
No. A single certificate issued via the MOI portal covers the entire UAE.

How can I verify a police clearance certificate’s authenticity?
Certificates include a QR code or reference number that can be verified on the official website.

Can someone apply on my behalf?
Yes. A notarized power of attorney is required, along with your documents.

Can I use one certificate for multiple purposes?
Sometimes. But some institutions request that the certificate be addressed specifically to them. Always confirm first.