How to Apply for a Police Clearance Certificate in Malaysia
Getting a police clearance certificate (PCC) is quite common for certain process, such as legal purposes or immigration. But you may be wondering how to apply for a police clearance certificate in Malaysia and what it is all about.
Whether you need a police clearance certificate or not, it is important to understand all about police clearance certificate. Let’s get to know more about it in this article.
What is a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC)?
A police clearance certificate is to certify whether you have any criminal record in Malaysia. It is an official document issued by the Royal Malaysia Police. You can understand it as a cert that proves you are law-abiding and have not broken any law.
It is usually required for legal and immigration process or any government or private institution which need to assess your background, such as migrating, working abroad, or visa application. It can be straightforward but still involve some requirements to get the police clearance certificate.
Why is a Police Clearance Certificate Required?
A police clearance certificate is a trust document in many countries. Academic institutions, foreign embassies, and even employers use it to verify the criminal history of a person.
Immigration purposes: Police clearance certificate are often needed when a person is migrating to avoid criminal increasing in the country.
Employment: Certain jobs may require a background check, especially roles in government departments or security-sensitive sectors.
Academic admissions: Some universities may ask for a police clearance certificate for international students.
Step-by-step Guide to Obtaining a Police Clearance Certificate In Malaysia
1. Prepare Necessary Documents
Ensure that you prepare your necessary documents before you apply for the police clearance certificate.
Documents include:
- Completed application form
- Recent passport-size photographs
- Passport (Ensure that your passport is valid for at least 6 months or more before the expiry date)
- Proof of your last residential address in Malaysia
Ensure that you have all documents ready. Do double-check with the authority for the documents that are needed for the application. It can help you save time.
2. Submit Your Application and Pay Fees
After you have prepared all the necessary documents, you can submit your application. You are required to pay a processing fee when you are applying for the police clearance certificate.
You can visit a local police station or apply online. Ensure that you keep your payment receipt as proof, in case any follow-up is needed.
3. Collect Certificate
Wait for the police department to verify your documents and cross-check the criminal database. They may contact you if there is any discrepancy. Ensure that you have sufficient time to wait for approval, as it may take up to 60 days for approval.
If you apply online, you are able to download the certificate online. If you apply through a local police station, check with them where to collect the certificate. Usually, you will be notified when the certificate is ready.
Double-check your personal details after you receive the certificate and ensure that all the details are correct.
Applying For A Police Clearance Certificate in Malaysia Through Online Platform
The process of applying for a police clearance certificate is much easier as you can apply through online platform.
You can visit https://ekonsular.kln.gov.my to apply for it. For new users, you will need to register and fill up your details. Log in after that and click the new application under the Certificate of Good Conduct.
Follow the instructions to fill up your personal information and upload the necessary documents. There are certain criteria for your passport-sized photo anda copy of the passport. Remember to read through the criteria.
After filling in the details and uploading the documents, you can submit your application. Ensure that all details are correct before submitting, as you won’t be able to amend the details after submitting.
After submitting your application, remember to print out the application acknowledgement slip. You can check your application status from time to time with the same ID that you used to apply.
Factors That May Delay The Process Of The Application
You wouldn’t want your application to be delayed, but there are a few factors that may delay the process, and you would want to avoid it.
- Missing or incorrect documents: This is the most common factor that will cause your application to be delayed. Double-check with the authority regarding the necessary documents that you need to submit to avoid submitting the wrong documents.
- Poor-quality document scans/photocopy: Whether you are submitting your application in person or through online platform, ensure that the documents are photocopied or scanned in good quality.
- Public holidays: Government departments are usually closed during public holidays, avoid submitting your application during that period, especially Hari Raya, Chinese New Year, or long weekends.
It is best to apply in advance to avoid any delays.
What To Do If Your Police Clearance Certificate Application Is Rejected?
It can be frustrating when your application is rejected and you need to understand what are the reasons that cause your application to be rejected.
Common reasons include incomplete documentation, discrepancy in information, or a criminal record found (which is rare). You may contact the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Malaysia, to understand more.
Usually, if it is administrative issues, you can resubmit quickly. Amend the issues that cause your application to be rejected. Update all the information that is needed and submit your application again. Do include a cover letter referring to your previous application. You may need to pay the fee again.