As travel COVID-19 induced restrictions across the globe are opening, more and more people can either be seen moving to another country. This has led to an increase in the number of people applying for Police Clearance Certificates (PCC) for one reason or the other. Central government has decided to include the facility to apply for PCC services at all online Post Office Passport Seva Kendras (POPSK) across the country. The External Affairs Ministry said, this will improve the citizen’s experience while availing passport related services.
“The Ministry of External Affairs is pleased to announce yet another step to improve the citizen’s experience while availing passport related services. To address the unanticipated surge in demand for PCCs, the Ministry has decided to include the facility to apply for PCC services at all online POPSKs across India, starting from Wednesday 28 September 2022” said a MEA press release.
“This step would significantly add to the availability of PCC appointments slots, and at an earlier date” it added.
The MEA press release further said, “The action taken by the Ministry in extending this PCC application facility to POPSKs, would not only help Indian citizens seeking employment abroad, but also meet the demand for other PCC requirements, such as in the case of education, long term visa, emigration etc.”
What is a Police Clearance Certificate?
Police Clearance Certificate is issued by the High Commission, certifying the person’s criminal record with the Indian police. It is generally required when a person applies for a visa or permanent residency.
It is issued to Indian Passport holders in case they have applied for Residential Status, Employment or Long term visa or for immigration. PCC cannot be issued for persons going abroad on Tourist Visa.
Why is it important?
This is done to make sure the applicant is residing at the address listed on the application and to make sure only true information is provided to the passport office.