UAE’s PCC Attestation: Process, Documents & Expenses Explained

Getting a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) is crucial if you intend to live, work, or study in the UAE. However, simply possessing the PCC is insufficient; for UAE authorities to accept it, they must undergo a rigorous Police Clearance Certificate Attestation procedure. Everything you need to know about getting and attesting a PCC is included in this guide, whether you're a first-time applicant or renewing your paperwork, including the steps, the required paperwork, the deadlines, and the expenses.

What is a Police Clearance Certificate?

A Police Clearance Certificate (PCC), also known as a Good Conduct Certificate, is an official document issued by the UAE Police Department. It verifies that the individual has no criminal background or pending legal cases during their stay in the country. Foreign authorities often require it as part of visa applications for employment, immigration, education, or even adoption.

This certificate is usually issued by the UAE Ministry of Interior and is valid for a period of three to six months, depending on the destination country and its regulations.

Why Do You Need a Police Clearance Certificate in UAE?

If you've lived in Abu Dhabi or anywhere in the UAE and plan to relocate abroad, many foreign countries will ask for a police clearance certificate as part of your documentation. But here’s the catch: it usually must be attested before they accept it.

You’ll typically need a police clearance certificate attestation for:

• Employment visas

• University admissions

• Immigration and PR (Permanent Residency)

• Marriage or adoption applications

• Business or investment visas

In short, if a foreign country needs to confirm your criminal background, attesting your PCC is non-negotiable.

Step-by-Step Process to Get Police Clearance Certificate

Obtaining and attesting your police clearance certificate in 2025 involves a structured process. Here's a step-by-step breakdown:

1. Apply for the Police Clearance Certificate

You can apply for the certificate through:

• The official UAE Ministry of Interior (MOI) website or mobile app

• The Abu Dhabi Police website

• Typing centres approved by the MOI

Documents required:

• Valid Emirates ID

• Copy of passport

• Recent passport-size photograph

• Fingerprint card (for applicants outside the UAE)

2. Receive the Certificate

After application and verification, you’ll receive the certificate either in Arabic or English, depending on your request. The processing time is usually 3 to 5 working days.

3. Start the Attestation Process

Once you receive the PCC, you must begin the Police Clearance Certificate Attestation process to legalise it for use abroad.

4. MOFA Attestation (Ministry of Foreign Affairs – UAE)

This is the first and most important step. MOFA UAE verifies and authenticates the PCC before foreign authorities accept it.

5. Embassy Attestation

After MOFA attestation, the certificate must be submitted to the embassy or consulate of the destination country for further attestation. Each country may have specific guidelines, so always check embassy requirements.

6. Translation (If Required)

Some countries may require the certificate in their official language. In such cases, get the document professionally translated and then re-attested.

7. Final Submission

Once all attestation steps are completed, your police clearance certificate attestation is legally valid and can be submitted to the respective international authority.

What Documents Do you need for Police Clearance Certificate Attestation?

To ensure a smooth attestation process, keep the following documents ready:

• Original Police Clearance Certificate

• Valid passport copy

• Emirates ID copy

• Passport-size photos

• MOFA application form

• Embassy-specific forms (if applicable)

• Translated documents (where required)

A simple mistake or missing form can delay the process, so double-check everything before submission.

What Does Police Clearance Certificate Attestation Cost in 2025?

Costs can vary depending on whether you do it yourself or use a professional service, and which country you're attesting the document for. Here's a rough estimate:

• PCC Application Fee: AED 100–200

• MOFA Attestation: AED 150–200

• Embassy Attestation: AED 100–500 (depending on the embassy)

• Translation (if required): AED 100–250

• Service Fees (if using an agent): AED 200–500

Always check the latest fees before starting the process. Some services offer express processing at a higher cost.

Need Help With Your Certificate Attestation?

Whether you're an expat leaving the UAE or a resident applying for a visa abroad, Police Clearance Certificate Attestation is a critical step in the documentation process. It validates your credibility and builds trust with international authorities. Make sure to follow all legal steps, gather required documents, and seek professional help if needed to make the process seamless.