A SAPS Police Clearance Certificate confirms whether you have a criminal record in South Africa. Visa authorities usually ask for it for work, residence and some long-stay visas, and sometimes during other applications.
Not every visa applicant needs this document. Whether you need it depends on the destination, visa type and your circumstances - check the official checklist first.
Tell us the destination and deadline for your police clearance.
Get Police Clearance QuotesHow It Works
- Complete the application form and fingerprint form.
- Have fingerprints taken at a police station or approved provider.
- Pay the SAPS fee.
- Submit to the SAPS Criminal Record Centre in Pretoria.
- Receive the certificate.
- Apostille it if the destination requires.
Police Clearance Fees
| Service | Amount | Type |
|---|---|---|
| SAPS application fee | R190 | Official |
| Agency or managed courier service | R1,200 - R2,850 | Optional assistance fee |
| DIY courier to Pretoria and back | R450 - R850 | Third-party |
| Apostille add-on | R1,250 - R1,850 | Optional assistance fee |
Fees may change and should be confirmed with the relevant government, embassy, consulate or authorised visa application provider before applying. Rand amounts are approximate conversions and assistance fees are indicative market ranges, not quotations.
Processing Time
Direct applications have commonly taken several weeks. Processing times are estimates and can change. Many visa systems only accept recently issued certificates, so check the age limit before applying.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a police clearance certificate in South Africa?
The SAPS fee is R190. Courier, agency and apostille costs are extra.
Which visas need a South African police clearance?
Usually work, residence and some long-stay visas. Tourist visas rarely need one unless requested.
How long is a police clearance valid for visas?
Each authority sets its own age limit, often 3 to 6 months.
Requests sent through Visa Application go to independent providers who handle police clearance applications regularly.
Related Pages
Visa approval is solely at the discretion of the relevant immigration authority. Visa Application is not a government department, embassy, consulate or visa application centre, and no provider can guarantee approval, appointment availability or processing time.
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