If you’re applying for a job, immigration, higher studies, residency, or even certain licensing procedures, you will almost certainly be asked for a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) or Criminal Clearance Certificate from the UAE.

Table of Contents

This guide explains, in plain language:

What the certificate is and what it shows
Who can apply (citizens, residents, visitors, ex-residents abroad)
Documents required in each case
Step-by-step application methods (MOI, Dubai Police, Abu Dhabi Police, smart kiosks, centres)
Fees, processing time, validity and attestation
Practical FAQs and common mistakes to avoid

✅ Important: The UAE Ministry of Interior now issues the Criminal Clearance Certificate in line with Ministerial Decision No. (600) of 2024, with a validity of 30 days from the date of issuance for the MOI-issued certificate.
Always double-check with the requesting authority (embassy, employer, immigration department) how “fresh” they require the certificate to be, as many still treat 2–3 months as the practical validity window.

What Is a Police Clearance / Criminal Clearance Certificate in the UAE?

A Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) – also called:

Criminal Clearance Certificate
Certificate of Good Conduct
Certificate of No Criminal Conviction

is an official document issued by UAE police authorities confirming your criminal status during your stay in the UAE. It may:

Confirm that you do not have any criminal record, or
Indicate if you have criminal restrictions or judgments registered under your name.

According to the Ministry of Interior (MOI), the certificate is an official, certified document that shows your criminal record and compliance with the law, or any involvement in actions that affect honour and integrity, for the period you have lived, worked or visited the UAE.

It is typically required for:

Employment in the UAE or abroad (especially sensitive or regulated roles)
Immigration and permanent residence applications
Study visas and university admissions
Professional licensing and registration with certain regulators
Marriage registration or some family law procedures abroad
Business, investment and some government approvals

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Who Can Apply for Police Clearance Certificate in Abu Dhabi, UAE?

You can apply for a UAE Police / Criminal Clearance Certificate if you fall into one of these categories:

UAE citizens
UAE residents (expatriates with a residence visa)
Visitors and GCC nationals who stayed temporarily in the UAE
Former residents who previously lived in the UAE and are now abroad

Note: If you have never lived in or visited the UAE, you cannot obtain a UAE PCC, because there is no UAE-based record to certify.

Legal Basis & Validity (Ministerial Decision No. 600 of 2024)

The issuance of criminal clearance certificates through the MOI is regulated by Ministerial Decision No. (600) of 2024, which governs:

Conditions for issuing the certificate
Data used to generate it
Period covered by the certificate
Official validity period

From the MOI’s official e-service page:

The certificate is issued in Arabic and English only.
It is issued based on your data for:
- the period of residence (for residents), or
- the period of visit (for visitors and GCC nationals).
Validity: The MOI criminal clearance certificate is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance.

Some other police portals and practical guides still refer to 90-day or 3-month validity as a general rule of thumb.

Best practice:

Treat 30 days as the formal validity for MOI-issued certificates.
Always confirm with the requesting authority (embassy, employer, immigration department) how recent the certificate must be.

Official Authorities & Channels to obtain Police Clearance Certificate ?

You can obtain a PCC / Criminal Clearance Certificate through:

Ministry of Interior (MOI) – Federal Service

Applies mainly to residents of Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah and Umm Al Quwain, and for federal criminal record checks across the UAE.

MOI UAE smart app (iOS & Android)
MOI website (e-services) – Issuance of Criminal Clearance / Clear Criminal Record Certificate
MOI smart kiosks and service centres
Customer Happiness Centres (during working hours)

Dubai Police

For applicants who need a Dubai Police PCC specifically, especially if requested by a Dubai-based employer or when the recipient authority specifies Dubai Police.

Dubai Police website
Dubai Police smart app
Police stations and Customer Happiness Centres within Dubai emirate

Abu Dhabi Police

For applicants focusing on Abu Dhabi Police PCC (e.g. older requirements, Abu Dhabi-specific employers):

Abu Dhabi Police website
Abu Dhabi Police app
Customer service sections in Abu Dhabi police stations

Documents Required For Police Clearance Certificate (By Applicant Type)

Below is a consolidated list, combining MOI requirements and current practice across major emirates:

UAE Citizens & Residents (Inside UAE)

Valid Emirates ID (original + copy)
Passport copy (including residence visa page, if applicable)
Recent passport-sized photograph (white background is standard)
Active email address and UAE mobile number
UAE Pass account for logging in (recommended / often required)

Visitors & GCC Nationals (While in UAE)

Valid passport (original + copy)
Copy of visit visa / entry stamp
Completed fingerprint procedure for the application (at a police station or authorised centre)
Recent passport photo
Contact email and phone number

Former Residents (Outside the UAE)

If you lived in the UAE before and are now abroad, you can still obtain a PCC. You typically need:

Passport copy (must be valid)
Copy of your old UAE residence visa or visa cancellation page
Proof of current residence abroad (e.g. local ID, utility bill – depends on the channel)
Fingerprint card:
- Taken at the police station or authorised fingerprint centre in your current country
- Attested / legalised by the UAE Embassy and often your local Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Two passport-sized photographs
Application form specifying purpose (immigration, work, study, etc.)

Former UAE residents abroad often face challenges in obtaining fingerprint cards, embassy attestations and remote submissions.
➡️ Let our UAE criminal lawyers manage your entire PCC application from overseas.

Fees for UAE Police / Criminal Clearance Certificates

Based on the official MOI service description and recent practical guides:

MOI Federal Service Fees

AED 50 – Service fee when the certificate is used inside the UAE
AED 100 – Service fee when the certificate is used outside the UAE
AED 50 – Fingerprinting fee for visitors and GCC citizens
AED 300 – MOFA attestation fee if the certificate will be used abroad

Payment channels: MOI payment portal (credit card, Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, Google Pay).

Typical Dubai Police Fees (Indicative)

Dubai Police fees vary depending on nationality, language and service speed, but many guides report:

Around AED 100–200 for residents
Higher brackets for ex-residents applying from abroad (often around AED 300), plus:
- Translation, if required
- MOFA attestation
- Courier / delivery charges

Because fees change frequently, always check:

the MOI UAE app
the Dubai Police or Abu Dhabi Police websites
before you apply.

🔺 Non-refundable: Once you submit your application, fees are not refunded, even if the certificate cannot be issued because of restrictions on your record.

How to Apply For Police Clearance Certificate? Step-by-Step

MOI Online Application (Citizens, Residents, Visitors & GCC)

This is the federal route and now the most common method.

Step 1 – Log in via UAE Pass

Download the MOI UAE app or visit the MOI website.
Sign in using UAE Pass (recommended) or create an account.

Step 2 – Select the Service

Go to “Police Services” or “Certificates” section.
Choose “Issuance of Criminal Clearance Certificate / Clear Criminal Record Certificate”.

Step 3 – Complete the Application Form

You’ll be asked to provide:

Emirates ID number (for citizens & residents)
Passport number and details
Contact mobile and email
Purpose of certificate (immigration, work, study, etc.)
Whether the certificate is for inside or outside the UAE

Step 4 – Upload Documents

Emirates ID and passport copies
Visa / residency page
Recent passport photo
For visitors / GCC nationals: ensure your fingerprint procedure is completed as instructed.moi.gov.ae

Step 5 – Pay the Fees

Pay securely using credit/debit card or supported wallets.
Ensure you select the correct usage (inside vs. outside UAE), as fees differ.

Step 6 – Receive Your Certificate

The certificate is usually issued within 24–72 hours for applications inside the UAE, depending on the emirate and workload.
You can receive it:
- as a digital certificate (PDF)
- via email
- or collect a physical copy if you chose that option.

Dubai Police Online Application

For a Dubai-issued Good Conduct / Police Clearance Certificate:

Channels:

Dubai Police website
Dubai Police mobile app

Steps (high level):

Log into your user profile / UAE Pass.
Select Police Clearance / Good Conduct Certificate service.
Fill in personal details and select language (Arabic / English).
Upload the required documents (Emirates ID, passport, photos).
Pay the prescribed fees.
Receive the certificate electronically, or request hard copy delivery through approved courier services.

Abu Dhabi Police & MOI Service Centres

In Abu Dhabi, you can apply:

Online through MOI UAE app / website
Via Abu Dhabi Police website/app
In person at Customer Happiness Centres or police station customer service counters, where staff can help you submit the application electronically.

You will:

Submit documents
Pay the fees via e-payment
Receive the certificate via email, MOI / Abu Dhabi Police account, or courier, depending on the chosen option.

Applying from Outside the UAE (Former Residents)

If you are abroad but need a UAE PCC, the process is slightly different:

Step 1 – Obtain a Fingerprint Card

Visit the nearest police station or authorised fingerprinting centre in your current country.
Have your fingerprints taken on an official fingerprint card.

Step 2 – Legalise the Fingerprint Card

Have the fingerprint card attested / legalised by:
- your country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (if required), and
- the UAE Embassy or Consulate in that country.

Step 3 – Prepare Your Documents

Attested fingerprint card
Passport copy
Old UAE residence visa / cancellation page (if available)
Recent passport photos
Proof of current residence
A letter stating the purpose of the certificate (immigration, employment, etc.)

Step 4 – Submit to UAE Authorities

You can usually:

Apply online via MOI UAE with scanned copies, or
Send the documents to the competent UAE police authority (e.g. Abu Dhabi Police or Dubai Police) as per instructions on their websites, or
Work through a licensed attestation / PRO service provider who can handle the submission and collection on your behalf.

Step 5 – Receive the Certificate

Once approved, your PCC will be issued electronically and can also be couriered, if you choose that option.
If required for use in a foreign country, you may need MOFA attestation and embassy legalisation in that destination country.

Language, Attestation & Use Abroad

Languages

MOI certificates are issued in Arabic and English only.
If your destination country requires another language, you can:
- Obtain a legal translation by a sworn translator, and
- Legalise both the certificate and translation as required.

MOFA & Embassy Attestation

If the certificate will be used outside the UAE, most jurisdictions require:

Attestation by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) in the UAE.
Legalisation / attestation by the embassy of the destination country.

This step confirms that:

The certificate is genuine, and
The signatures / seals are officially recognised abroad.

Processing Time & Practical Tips for Obtaining Police Clearance Certificate?

Typical processing times:

Inside UAE:
- Often within 24–72 hours through MOI or local police portals.
Outside UAE:
- Allow 5–7 working days or more, depending on:
  - embassy / consulate processing
  - MOFA and embassy attestation
  - courier timelines

Practical tips:

Apply close to your document submission date, since formal validity is short (30 days) and many immigration bodies require fresh certificates.
Ensure your name and passport number match exactly across:
- passport
- Emirates ID
- application form
  Any mismatch can delay or block issuance.
Keep soft copies safely stored; many authorities now accept digital certificates if verifiable.
If you have any prior police case, seek legal advice before applying, especially when timing your immigration or job process.

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Obtaining Police Clearance Certificate?

Applying with expired ID / passport
– Update your Emirates ID / passport before applying, if necessary.
Choosing the wrong usage (inside vs. outside UAE)
– Fees and attestation requirements differ; always select the correct option.
Assuming validity for 6–12 months
– Official MOI validity is 30 days; many authorities informally accept up to 3 months, but you should confirm with the recipient.
Not legalising the certificate for foreign use
– For immigration or foreign employment, MOFA + embassy attestation is often mandatory.
Delaying fingerprinting (for visitors and ex-residents abroad)
– Absence of a properly attested fingerprint card is one of the main reasons for rejection or delay.

UAE Police Clearance – Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the difference between a Police Clearance Certificate, Good Conduct Certificate and Criminal Clearance Certificate?

These are different names for the same underlying document: an official certificate confirming your criminal record status in the UAE. Terminology varies by emirate and institution, but the purpose is identical.

2. Can I apply if I am a visitor or GCC national?

Yes. Visitors and GCC nationals who have stayed in the UAE can apply through MOI, but they must complete the fingerprint procedure and hold a valid passport recorded in the system.

3. Can I apply from outside the UAE?

Yes. Former residents can apply from abroad by providing an attested fingerprint card, passport, old visa details and other supporting documents, and by applying through MOI or the relevant emirate police portal.

4. How long is the certificate valid?

Under Ministerial Decision No. (600) of 2024, MOI-issued certificates are formally valid for 30 days from the date of issuance.
Some entities informally treat them as valid for up to 3 months, but you must confirm this with the requesting authority.

5. In which language can I get the certificate?

The MOI issues the criminal clearance certificate in Arabic and English only.
If you need another language, you must arrange an official translation and attestation.

6. Are the fees refundable if my application is rejected?

No. Both the MOI and local police authorities clearly state that fees are non-refundable, including cases where the certificate cannot be issued because of criminal restrictions.

7. Can I amend or correct my certificate after issuance?

If there is a clear data error (e.g. spelling of your name), you should contact the issuing authority (MOI / Dubai Police / Abu Dhabi Police) immediately with supporting documents. Corrections are handled on a case-by-case basis, and in many situations you may be asked to submit a new application.

8. Do I always need MOFA attestation?

For use inside the UAE: generally no.
For use outside the UAE: in most immigration, study and employment cases yes – MOFA and the relevant embassy will usually need to attest the certificate for it to be recognised abroad.

9. Can a third party or agency apply on my behalf?

Yes, subject to:

A proper Power of Attorney (PoA), and
Compliance with local laws and ethical standards.

Many people use licensed attestation or PRO companies to handle fingerprinting, attestations and courier logistics, especially when they are already abroad.

10. Does having a minor traffic fine affect my PCC?

Minor, paid traffic fines typically do not prevent issuance of a PCC, as the certificate focuses on criminal records and restrictions rather than basic administrative violations. However, unpaid fines or outstanding criminal cases may affect issuance; if in doubt, clear all pending obligations first or seek legal advice.

Final Note

This guide is based on the most recent official MOI service description and reputable explanatory sources as of December 2025, but:

Fees, procedures, and platforms can change without prior notice.
Requirements may differ by emirate, issuing authority, and destination country.

👉 Always check the latest instructions on the MOI UAE, Dubai Police or Abu Dhabi Police portals, and confirm specific requirements with the embassy, employer or immigration authority requesting the certificate.

Don’t risk delays or rejections. Let a specialist handle the process from start to finish.

➡️ Call us now or submit an inquiry to begin your PCC application.

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