Are you looking for information on how to apply for a police clearance certificate? Then you've come to the right place!
Whether for a new job, proof of volunteer work, or other reasons, obtaining this important document can be easier than you think. In this article, we'll guide you through the process step by step, offer practical tips, and explain how Certification24 can help you.
What is a police clearance certificate?
In short, a police clearance certificate is an official document that provides information about a person's criminal convictions. There are different types of certificates, depending on their purpose, such as for private use, submission to an authority, or specifically for working with children and young people.
Why do I need a police clearance certificate?
A police clearance certificate is often required by employers, particularly in the education or social services sectors, as well as for visa applications or for volunteer work. It serves as proof that you have no relevant criminal convictions.
How do I apply for a police clearance certificate?
Step 1: Personal preparation
Before you begin, make sure you have a valid identity card or passport. These documents are necessary to confirm your identity when applying.
Step 2: Application on site or online
You can apply for the police clearance certificate either in person at your local registration office or online via theonline portal of the Federal Office of Justice .
Important: For the online application, you need a new identity card with online identification function and a corresponding reader.
Step 3: Pay fees
Applying for a police clearance certificate incurs a fee, payable upon application. The fee is approximately €13 (as of April 2023). However, this fee is subject to change, so it is advisable to check the current fee before applying.
Step 4: Processing time
Processing times can vary, but you will usually receive your police clearance certificate within two to three weeks of applying. Therefore, please allow sufficient time if you need the document by a specific date.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I obtain the police clearance certificate in English?
Yes, that's possible. You can specify in your application whether you also need an international version of the certificate of good conduct.
What do I do if I need my certificate of good conduct for use abroad?
In this case, it is often necessary to have the certificate of good conduct certified. Beglaubigung24 can help you with this. We offer a fast and reliable document certification service to ensure your certificate of good conduct is internationally recognized.
Is there a way to shorten the processing time?
The processing time is standardized and cannot usually be shortened. However, it's always a good idea to submit the application as early as possible to avoid delays.
Police clearance certificates in different languages and their local meanings
German: Police clearance certificate
In Germany, in addition to the standard certificate of good conduct, an extended certificate of good conduct may also be required, especially for professions where the focus is on working with children and young people.
English: Criminal Record Certificate
In the US and the UK, this document may also be called a "background check" or "police clearance certificate." In the US, there is the FBI Criminal Background Check, which provides a detailed list of federal convictions.
Spanish: Certificado de Antecedentes Penales
In Spain and many Latin American countries, it is important that this document is updated regularly, as its validity is often limited to a few months.
French: Extrait de Casier Judiciaire
In France, this document can be applied for online via the Ministry of Justice website, which simplifies the process. For certain positions, particularly in the civil service, a more detailed document may be required.
Italian: Certificato Penale
In Italy, it is often important that the Certificato Penale be authenticated by a court for official purposes, which can delay the process.
Portuguese: Certidão de Antecedentes Criminais
In Brazil, when applying for this document, special attention must be paid to ensuring that it is issued by the Federal Police (Polícia Federal) if it is to be used for international purposes.
Russian: Справка о наличии (отсутствии) судимости
In Russia, this document can be applied for directly at the Ministry of Internal Affairs or via its website. Notarization may also be required.
Chinese: 无犯罪记录证明 (Wú fànzuì jìlù zhèngmíng)
In China, the document often has to be requested through the local police department, and it may subsequently need to be legalized by the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Arabic: شهادة السجل الجنائي (Shahadat Al-Sajl Al-Jina'i)
In many Arab countries, including Egypt and the United Arab Emirates, the document must be applied for in person, and there may be additional requirements depending on the intended use.
Japanese: 犯罪歴証明書 (Hanzai Reki Shōmeisho)
In Japan, this document is issued by the police department and often requires a personal application. For non-Japanese citizens, the process can be complex and usually requires additional documentation.
A police clearance certificate is an important document for many situations. With the right preparation and the information in this article, you can make the application process smooth and efficient.
