How to obtain a police certificate

United Kingdom (including England, Channel Islands, Isle of Man, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland)

Do I need to provide a police certificate when applying for permanent residence?
Yes.

How and where do I obtain one?

If you live in the United Kingdom
You must apply through the ACPO (Association of Chief Police Officers) Criminal Records Office.

The ACPO police certificate contains security features and information on criminal records from databases covering England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

To apply, download the instructions, application form and Frequently Asked Questions at: www.acro.police.uk/police_certificates.aspx

The “Standard Service” processing time is 10 working days. For an additional cost, “Premium Service” processing is available in 2 working days.

If you need help with your application, please call the ACPO Criminal Records Office on 0845 6013 999 (between 08:30 and 16:30) Monday to Friday or e–mail acro.policecertificates@acro.pnn.police.uk.

Note: The Data Protection Statement (obtained by Subject Access) is no longer accepted.

If you live outside of the United Kingdom
The same procedures above apply.