How to Get a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) as a Foreign National

If you’re living in Australia but you’re not an Australian citizen, and you need a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) for visa, immigration, or employment purposes, the process may feel overwhelming — but it’s actually quite straightforward once you know what to do.

This step-by-step guide will help you understand what documents you need, how to fill out the forms, and where to submit your application. (This article is based on personal experience and is not legal advice — please consult official sources or a migration agent for professional guidance.)



📝 Forms You Need to Fill Out

1. Miscellaneous Services Application Form

  • Select the option to apply for a Police Clearance Certificate.
  • Mention the country for which you need the PCC and the reason (e.g., immigration).
  • Fill in your full name, parents’ names, current address, job, date and place of birth, and passport number.
  • Provide details of your last visit to India (if applicable): visa number, duration of stay, type of visa, etc.

2. Personal Particulars Form

  • Include details such as full name, DOB, job, and how long you’ve lived abroad.
  • Provide current and previous addresses (if you’ve lived at your current address less than a year).
  • Include names of two referees in India.
  • Add your current passport number.

📑 Getting Your Passport Attested

You must include a certified copy of your passport. You can do this in two ways:

  • Justice of the Peace (JP) – You’ll find JPs at libraries or councils. Some may charge a fee.
  • Document Signing Stations – These are often free. Use your state or territory’s justice department website to locate one by suburb or postcode.

📷 Additional Requirements

  • Two 2×2 inch passport-sized photos
  • PCC Checklist – Download and tick off each item to ensure you’re submitting a complete application.

📬 How to Apply

You have two options to submit your PCC application:

🔹 In Person

Visit your nearest VFS Global center. You can either:

  • Book an appointment online
  • Walk in (check if available at your center)

🔹 By Post

Send your full application to the VFS Global PO Box listed on their website.

What to Include:

  • Miscellaneous Services Form
  • Personal Particulars Form
  • Certified passport copy
  • PCC Checklist
  • 2 photos
  • Proof of renunciation of Indian citizenship

Renouncing Indian Citizenship

As a foreign national, you must provide proof of Indian citizenship renunciation. You can:

  • Include your renunciation certificate/letter, OR
  • Provide a reference number if your renunciation is in progress, OR
  • Write a letter explaining why you haven’t renounced yet

💰 Fees and Charges

Fees depend on your state and whether you’re applying in person or by post. Visit the VFS Global Fee Calculator to get an estimate based on your situation.


⏳ Processing Time

The PCC is typically issued within 1–2 weeks. Indian Consulate in Melbourne processes most applications quickly.


ℹ️ Need More Info?

Visit the official VFS Global India PCC page for the latest information, forms, and instructions.


Have questions or need help? Drop them in the comments below.

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