Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) is a document issued by the Indian authorities declaring that the applicant has no criminal record in India. NRIs (Non-Resident Indians) usually need PCC while applying for foreign citizenship, permanent residence, long-term employment, student visa, or marriage registration overseas.
Important Points for NRIs for PCC:
Who Needs PCC:
- NRIs seeking permanent residency, employment, spouse visa, or citizenship in a foreign nation might be asked to provide a PCC obtained from India.
Where to Apply:
- You can apply for PCC online through the official website of the local Indian Consulate or High Commission in your current country of residence.
- PCC can also be applied for through Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) if you are traveling to India.
Application Process:
- Complete the online application form provided on the Consulate/High Commission website.
- Print the form and sign it.
- Include a self-addressed prepaid envelope with your application for return posting.
- Send all the documents required such as a copy of your Indian passport, evidence of present foreign residence, OCI card copy (if any), and passport-size photos.
- If you previously had a canceled Indian passport, authorities might request you to provide a copy for verification.
Delivery of PCC:
- As soon as your PCC is processed and granted, it shall be delivered right to your door step through the pre-paid envelope.
Validity of PCC:
- The validity of PCC remains 6 months from the issue date.
- Ensure your Indian passport remains valid for minimum 3 to 6 months while making a PCC application.
Processing Time:
- The process of releasing PCC takes 7-30 days subject to police verification and the station from where the application is sent.
Purpose of PCC for NRIs:
- It is done for immigration purposes, employment in a foreign nation, study purposes, marriage registration, or grant of permanent residence in a foreign nation.
