Applying for Police Clearance in Nigeria is a procedure many individuals may have to go through for various reasons, such as visa applications or job requirements. However, many people find the process daunting and time-consuming. This guide aims to provide a clear, step-by-step process for applying for police clearance in Nigeria, taking into account factors such as costs, required documents, and procedures.
Introduction
Acquiring a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) in Nigeria is an essential requirement for numerous undertakings like international travel, employment screening, or legal compliance. However, the procedure is often marked by complexities that discourage many. This comprehensive guide will streamline the entire process for you, detailing every step from start to finish.
Everything You Need to Know About Getting a Police Clearance Certificate in Nigeria
If you’re planning to work or reside in another country, you may need to obtain a police clearance certificate to meet the character standards. A police clearance certificate is an official document that verifies that you have no criminal record. In Nigeria, the police clearance certificate is also known as the criminal history record check or police character certificate.
To apply for a police clearance certificate in Nigeria, you must visit the Police Central Criminal Registry in Lagos or your present state of residence. The following are the steps to follow:
1. Tell the person in charge at the criminal registration office that you want to get a “Police Character Clearance Certificate.
2. Pay the application fee and collect the application form. The application form can only be filled out with a blue or black pen and attached to a passport picture.
3. Fill out the form properly and submit it with all required documents.
4. Collect your certificate when it’s ready.
The certificate is usually issued within 14 working days after submission of all required documents.
Required Documents
Before beginning the application process, ensure you have the following documents ready:
1. National Identification Card or Valid Passport
2. Two recent passport-sized photographs
3. Completed application form
4. Proof of payment for the Police Clearance Certificate
Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Visit the Nearest Police Station
– Head to your local police station or the one closest to your area of residence.
Step 2: Obtain the Application Form
– Request the Police Clearance Certificate application form and fill it out completely.
Step 3: Submit Required Documents
– Attach all required documents and submit them along with the filled-out application form.
Step 4: Make Payment
– Make the requisite payment either via bank draft or electronic payment methods.
Step 5: Fingerprinting
– The police will take your fingerprints as part of the identification process.
Step 6: Verification Process
– Your application and attached documents will undergo a verification process, which may take several days.
Step 7: Issuance of Police Clearance Certificate
– After successful verification, you will receive your Police Clearance Certificate, either via pick-up or by mail.
How To Go About Registration Processes
1. Visit the Police Specialized Automation Services (POSSAP) Portal and click on the “Request Service” or “Get Started” button to access a page to request a service. You might be required to create an account if you don’t already have one.
2. Select the service you want to request, which in this case is Police Extract.
3. Fill out the form with your details and submit it.
4. Pay the required application fee, which can be made against an invoice at any bank branch, mobile banking, POS, or online with debit cards (MasterCard, Visa, Verve).
5. Wait for approval of your application.
6. Once your application is approved, you will receive a notification via email or SMS.
7. Collect your police clearance certificate from the Central Criminal Registry in Lagos or your present state of residence.
The cost of obtaining a police clearance certificate in Nigeria varies depending on where you are getting the document from. Based on recent trends and reports, you should expect to spend anything between N3,500 – N10,000 to complete the whole process. However, some applicants have even paid up to N30,000 for the process due to certain circumstances. Please note that these prices are not fixed and may vary depending on your financial status and other factors.
Conclusion
Applying for Police Clearance in Nigeria need not be a strenuous task if you are armed with the right information and documents. By following this guide, you can navigate the process smoothly and obtain your Police Clearance Certificate hassle-free.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about the process of applying for a police clearance certificate in Nigeria:
Q: How long does it take to get Police Clearance in Nigeria?
A:The standard processing time can range from 1-3 weeks, but expedited services are available at an additional cost.
Q: Can I apply for Police Clearance online?
A:Some states in Nigeria offer an online application process, although the fingerprinting step will require an in-person visit.
Q: Is the Police Clearance Certificate valid internationally?
A: Yes, the Police Clearance Certificate from Nigeria is generally recognized internationally for visa and employment purposes.
Q: What is a police clearance certificate?
A: A police clearance certificate is an official document issued by the Nigerian Police Force that certifies that an individual has no criminal record.
Q: What is the importance of a police clearance certificate?
A: A police clearance certificate is important for individuals who want to change their country of residence or occupy sensitive positions in Nigeria.
Q: . Who is eligible for a police clearance certificate?
A: Any Nigerian citizen or foreign national residing in Nigeria can apply for a police clearance certificate.
Q: . What are the requirements for obtaining a police clearance certificate?
A: The requirements for obtaining a police clearance certificate include personal identification documents, proof of address, and payment of the application fee.
Q: . How do I get a police clearance certificate in Nigeria?
A: To get a police clearance certificate in Nigeria, you need to visit the Police Specialized Automation Services (POSSAP) Portal and select the service you want to request, which in this case is Police Extract. You will then need to fill out the form with your details and submit it. Once your application is approved, you will receive a notification via email or SMS. You can then collect your police clearance certificate from the Central Criminal Registry in Lagos or your present state of residence.
Q: . How much does it cost to obtain a police clearance certificate in Nigeria?
A; The cost of obtaining a police clearance certificate in Nigeria varies depending on where you are getting the document from. Based on recent trends and reports, you should expect to spend anything between N3,500 – N10,000 to complete the whole process. However, some applicants have even paid up to N30,000 for the process due to certain circumstances.
Q; How long does it take to obtain a police clearance certificate in Nigeria?
A; The processing time for obtaining a police clearance certificate in Nigeria varies depending on the location and other factors. However, it usually takes between 2-4 weeks to complete the process.
Q: Where can I download the police clearance certificate form?
A; You can download the police clearance certificate form from the Police Specialized Automation Services (POSSAP) Portal.
Q: Do I have to travel to the Criminal Registry in Lagos to obtain the certificate?
A:Yes, you will need to travel to either the Central Criminal Registry in Lagos or your present state of residence to collect your police clearance certificate.
Q: When will I be asked to provide my police clearance certificate?
A:You may be asked to provide your police clearance certificate when applying for visas, employment opportunities, or other official purposes.
Q:What is the expiry date of a police clearance certificate?
A:The expiry date of a police clearance certificate varies depending on the issuing authority and other factors.
Q:Can a police clearance certificate be obtained by proxy?
A:No, you cannot obtain a police clearance certificate by proxy as it requires biometric data collection and verification.
Q: Is a police clearance certificate transferable?
A: No, a police clearance certificate is not transferable as it is issued based on individual records and biometric data.
By adhering to these steps and being prepared, you can make the process of obtaining your Police Clearance Certificate in Nigeria a straightforward and hassle-free experience.
