How to Apply for Police Clearance Certificate in Abu Dhabi Online 2026

Quick answer

Apply for an Abu Dhabi Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) online via the Abu Dhabi Police website or the TAMM app. The process takes 3–7 working days, costs AED 100 for the standard service, and requires a valid Emirates ID, passport copy, and a recent photo. You can collect it digitally or pick it up from designated centres.

Why you might need a police clearance certificate in Abu Dhabi

Most expats need a PCC when renewing a visa, applying for a new job, enrolling children in schools, or moving to another country. The Abu Dhabi version is issued by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) and is recognised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MOFAIC) for attestation.

Who can apply?

Any resident or visitor who holds a valid Emirates ID can apply. Minors under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who signs the application. If you left the UAE more than six months ago, you must apply in person at the Criminal Records Department in Abu Dhabi.

Documents you need before you start

• Valid Emirates ID (front and back scan)
• Passport copy showing the visa page
• One recent passport-size photo with white background
• Reason for the PCC (job, visa, school, etc.)
• AED 100 for standard service or AED 200 for urgent (same-day) service

Step-by-step: how to apply online

Step 1 – Create or log into your ICP account

Visit icp.gov.ae or open the ICP Smart Services app. If you already have a UAE Pass, use it to sign in; otherwise create an account with your Emirates ID number and mobile number registered in the UAE.

Step 2 – Access the Abu Dhabi Police e-services portal

From the ICP homepage, search “Police Clearance Certificate” or go directly to abudhabipolice.gov.ae. Choose “Individuals” then “Certificates” then “Police Clearance Certificate”.

Step 3 – Fill in the online form

Enter your personal details exactly as they appear on your Emirates ID. Select the purpose of the certificate and upload the required documents. Double-check the spelling of your name; mismatches are the top reason for rejection.

Step 4 – Pay the fee

Pay AED 100 (standard) or AED 200 (urgent) using a debit or credit card. Save the receipt; you will need the application number for tracking.

Step 5 – Biometric verification (if prompted)

Some applicants are asked to visit an Amer centre or ICP kiosk for fingerprinting. You will receive an SMS with the location and time slot. Bring your original Emirates ID and passport.

Step 6 – Receive and download the certificate

Once approved, the digital PCC appears in your ICP account and is emailed to you. Print it on A4 paper or save it to your phone. The certificate is valid for six months from the date of issue.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Using an expired Emirates ID – the system will reject the application automatically.
• Uploading a photo that does not meet ICAO standards (white background, recent, 4.5 cm × 3.5 cm).
• Selecting the wrong purpose, which can delay attestation later.
• Forgetting to collect the physical copy if your destination country requires wet-ink stamps.

Urgent vs standard service – which should you choose?

If you need the PCC for a same-day visa application or a last-minute job offer, pay the extra AED 100 for urgent service. Otherwise the standard three-to-seven-day turnaround is sufficient and cheaper. Note that urgent service still requires biometric attendance within 24 hours.

What to do after you receive the PCC

Most foreign embassies in Abu Dhabi require MOFAIC attestation. Book an appointment on the MOFAIC portal, pay AED 150 per document, and submit the original PCC. Processing takes one working day. Keep both the digital and attested copies for your records.

Where to get help if something goes wrong

Call the Abu Dhabi Police contact centre on 800 2626 or use the live chat inside the TAMM app. For ICP-related issues, dial 600 522222. Keep your application number handy; agents can usually resolve upload errors or payment failures within minutes.

Key takeaway

Applying for an Abu Dhabi Police Clearance Certificate online is straightforward in 2026 if you prepare the correct documents, use your UAE Pass login, and double-check every field. The whole process can be completed from your living room, saving you hours of queueing at service centres.