Why use Apostil for document notarisation?

Saving you time: We queue for you, we apply on your behalf, we call and travel many times to follow up on your applications and then collect once ready. Usually, we receive documents much, much faster than if you had applied alone, especially if you are based outside of South Africa. You save masses of time using our services.

Why use Apostil for document notarisation?

Experience and know-how: We are a reputable firm with an extensive track record. Other providers are typically back-street operators or single operators – be aware as your personal documentation is at stake. If your documentation has errors, we attempt to have this corrected, usually at no extra cost.

Apostil – Where are we based?

Apostil.co.za has various office addresses in the Western Cape and Gauteng. You can only courier them to us, please enquire for the address (depends on your requirement). We also offer a delivery and collection service within SA and globally, through DHL, The Courier Guy and other companies. To reiterate, we only accept documentation, couriered, to our addresses.

Apostille South African police clearance

With emigration and international travel on the rise again, one of the most commonly requested documents for South Africans abroad is the Police Clearance Certificate (PCC). Whether you’re applying for a visa, residency, job, or study permit, you’ll almost always need to apostille South African police clearance certificates before they can be accepted overseas.

This 2025 guide explains how to apostille your South African police clearance, how long it takes, and what’s changed recently in the process.

What a police clearance certificate is

A Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) is issued by the South African Police Service (SAPS) Criminal Record Centre in Pretoria. It confirms whether or not you have a criminal record in South Africa.

Most countries require this as part of their immigration or employment vetting processes, especially for long-term visas like residence, work, or study permits.

Why you need to apostille South African police clearance certificates

If you’re submitting your PCC to another country, it must be recognised as genuine. South Africa is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention, so the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) can issue an apostille certificate verifying its authenticity.

Example scenarios where an apostille is needed

Moving to the UK, Netherlands, or Australia for work or permanent residency.
Applying for a Schengen visa where background checks are required.
Studying abroad in a country that insists on authenticated documents.

Without the apostille, your PCC won’t be accepted internationally.

Step-by-step guide on the process

1. Apply for your PCC at SAPS

You can apply at any SAPS station or via a courier service. You’ll need your fingerprints taken and a certified copy of your ID.

2. Wait for SAPS to issue the certificate

Processing can take 6 to 8 weeks, depending on the backlog. You can request updates from the SAPS Criminal Record Centre by email or SMS once your reference number is issued.

3. Submit the original PCC to DIRCO for apostille

Once you have your original PCC, you must send it to DIRCO’s Legalisation Section in Pretoria to have it apostilled. As of 2025, DIRCO no longer accepts walk-ins, all submissions must be via courier or through a registered agency such as Apostil.co.za

Need assistance?

Handling the apostille of your South African police clearance certificate on your own can be a lengthy and frustrating process, often stretching into months. By working with a specialised document concierge service like Apostil.co.za, you not only save valuable time, since we process your documents in the fastest possible timeframe, but also avoid costly delays that could disrupt your international travel plans.

Let us streamline the process for you, ensuring peace of mind and a smooth, hassle-free experience. Get in touch with our professional team today to learn more about the process, estimated timelines for processing, and pricing options!