Guidance on Obtaining a China Police Clearance Certificate for Non-Residents

For individuals who have previously resided in China and are now applying for visas, immigration, or employment in other countries, obtaining a China Police Clearance Certificate (also known as a Non-Criminal Record Certificate) is a standard procedural requirement.

As a professional legal service provider, we assist clients in navigating the administrative complexities of this process from abroad. Below are the answers to the most frequently asked questions regarding the procedure, documentation, and logistics.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the application depend on the specific city or province of residence? 

While the application process is handled by the local authorities in the city or province where you resided (such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, or other regions), our firm provides nationwide coverage. We coordinate with the relevant local bureaus on your behalf, regardless of your previous location in China.

What documentation is generally required to start the process? 

To initiate the application, the following documents are typically required:

1. Passport Scans: Clear copies of your current valid passport and any previous passports used during your stay in China.

2. Visa/Permit Scans: Copies of Chinese visas or residence permits relevant to your period of residence.

3. Power of Attorney (POA): Since the application is handled by a representative, an original authorized POA is required by Chinese authorities.

How is the Power of Attorney (POA) handled for clients abroad? 

Our firm provides a bilingual (English and Chinese) POA template. By using an integrated bilingual version, applicants generally only need to notarize and legalize a single document in their current country of residence. This document must then be sent in its original physical form to our office in China.

What is the estimated processing timeline? 

Once the original notarized POA is received at our office, the standard processing time for the issuance of the certificate by the authorities is typically 2 to 3 working days. However, because the issuance is subject to the workload of the relevant government departments, we cannot provide a guaranteed timeline; a total window of approximately one week is a common estimate.

Are there additional steps for international use of the certificate? 

The certificate issued by the police department confirms your non-criminal record. However, some foreign institutions may require this certificate to be further notarized and legalized within China. We can assist in coordinating with the notary office for these additional steps, though it is the applicant's responsibility to confirm these requirements with the requesting authority beforehand. Additional notary fees will apply if such services are required.

How is international shipping managed?

Shipping: If the original certificate is required, applicants may arrange for an international courier (such as UPS or FedEx) to collect the documents from our office at a scheduled time. By managing the courier order and paying for it directly, you ensure transparency in shipping costs and logistics.

If you require professional assistance with your China Police Clearance application, please contact us for a preliminary review of your case.

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Siyuan Xu

License No.: 13201202311672894

About the Author:

With a rich background in international trade, Siyuan brings a unique perspective to the legal field. Her extensive experience in trade has equipped her with the ability to provide practical and down-to-earth advice to her clients. Since transitioning to law, she has successfully assisted numerous clients, earning a reputation for her exceptional courtroom skills. Her dedication and expertise make her a trusted advisor and a formidable advocate in court. Her commitment to her clients and her ability to navigate complex legal landscapes ensure that she delivers the best possible outcomes.

Contact: zlxlawyer@bjcelue.com or WhatsApp +86 18362959702

China Police Clearance Certificate, Non-Criminal Record Certificate, visa application, immigration, employment abroad, document legalization.