What is a police clearance certificate?
A Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) — also called a Certificate of Good Conduct, Criminal Background Check, or Certificate of No Criminal Record — is an official document confirming whether an individual has a criminal record in a given country. USCIS requires a PCC from every country where you have lived for 6 months or more after the age of 16.
When USCIS requires a police clearance certificate
Applications that require a PCC-
- Form I-485 Adjustment of Status — All countries of prior residence must be documented
- DS-260 Immigrant Visa Application — Required for consular processing abroad
- Form N-400 Naturalization — Applicants with significant foreign residence history
- Refugee and Asylee Adjustment Applications — When available from the country of origin
- VAWA and U-Visa Applications — May be required depending on individual circumstances
What must be translated on a PCC?
Required translation elements-
- Issuing authority name, department, and jurisdiction
- Full name and date of birth of the subject
- The finding statement — whether a criminal record exists or the certificate is clear
- Any criminal offenses listed — including charge, date, and final disposition
- All official seals, stamps, and surrounding text
- Certificate reference number and date of issue
What if my PCC shows a criminal record?
Important — accuracy is critical
USCIS cross-references translated criminal records with FBI databases and international law enforcement networks. Any discrepancy between the original document and the translation — even in dates or charge descriptions — will trigger an immediate RFE or denial. Always consult an immigration attorney if your PCC contains any criminal history before filing.
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