pakistani.siIndependent general guidance, not a government service or an application portal. Requirements vary by location and circumstances. Confirm current eligibility, documents, fees, processing times and the correct office on the official government website before applying. Never send identity documents, CNIC numbers, passwords or OTPs to this site.
Steps to get started
- Ask the employer, embassy or other receiving organisation what certificate it accepts, which places or periods of residence it needs covered, and whether translation or attestation is required.
- Find the police service responsible for your district or area through its official government website. Confirm which office or online service handles your case. A procedure described for Punjab is not automatically valid elsewhere.
- Ask for the current checklist. Identity documents, a passport where relevant, photographs, address or residence history and the purpose of the request are examples of information you may be asked for, not a universal list.
- Check whether you must attend in person and how overseas applicants or authorised representatives are handled. Submit only through the verified channel and keep the reference and receipt privately.
- Review the issued document and ask the receiving organisation whether any further authentication is needed before sending it abroad.
Before you apply
Do not assume one certificate covers every district, country or purpose. Confirm current documents, fees and processing arrangements with the local police and the requesting organisation; approval is not guaranteed.
Official sources
- Government of Punjab — Dastak police services (Punjab example)
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs — Pakistan
Frequently asked questions
Is a police character certificate required for every visa or job?
No universal rule applies. Ask the specific embassy, employer or receiving organisation whether it requires one and what it accepts.
Can I apply while living abroad?
Ask the responsible local police service about its current overseas or representative procedure. Do not assume a relative can apply without authorisation.
Does a police certificate need attestation?
That depends on the receiving country and organisation. Confirm the document route before paying for translation or attestation.
Related guides
- Attesting Pakistani documents for use abroad
- Lost CNIC or passport: reporting and avoiding scams
- How to avoid citizen-service scams in Pakistan