Police Character Certificate Guide
A complete step-by-step guide to getting a police character certificate in Pakistan — documents, fee, where to apply — plus a printable checklist you can tick off as you go.
Step by step
- Collect your documents. Keep your original CNIC, two copies of the CNIC, two passport-size photographs and proof of your current address ready.
- Fill the application form. Get the form from the Police Khidmat Markaz or the facilitation center counter, or fill it online on your provincial police website.
- Pay the fee. The fee is usually between Rs 200 and Rs 1,000 depending on the province and whether you choose standard or urgent processing. Keep the receipt safe.
- Submit biometrics. Your fingerprints are taken at the center for the criminal record check.
- Wait for verification. The police verify your record with the local station and district office. This normally takes 3 to 10 working days.
- Collect the certificate. You receive an SMS or call when it is ready, or download it if you applied online. Check that your name and CNIC number are correct.
Where to apply
| Province | Usual counter | Typical fee |
|---|---|---|
| Punjab | Police Khidmat Markaz | Rs 200 - 500 |
| Sindh | Police Facilitation Center | Rs 200 - 500 |
| Khyber Pakhtunkhwa | Police Assistance Line / center | Rs 200 - 500 |
| Balochistan | District police office | Rs 200 - 500 |
| Islamabad | Police Khidmat Markaz | Rs 500 - 1,000 |
Fees and counters change over time. Confirm the current fee at your local center or on the official police website before you go.
Printable checklist 0 of 9
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Important notes
- The certificate is usually valid for 6 months. Check with the organization asking for it.
- For jobs or visas abroad, some embassies need the certificate attested by the Foreign Office — ask before you apply.
- If you have lived at more than one address, bring proof for each address.
- Never pay a middleman extra money; apply directly at the official counter.
Common reasons for delay
- CNIC address does not match your current address — carry a utility bill as proof.
- Fingerprint scan fails — the center will retry or use ink prints.
- Record check with another district — this adds a few days if you recently moved.