South Africa – Police Clearance Certificate Alternative Announced For Some In-Country Applications
Beginning October 1, the Department of Home Affairs in South Africa announced foreign nationals would no longer need to apply for a South African police certificate at a police station, if filing in country, for a temporary residence visa or permanent residence permit. Applicants applying for a temporary residence visa or permanent residence permit out of the country must still obtain a South African police clearance certificate.
Foreign nationals may use a visa center to collect fingerprints, which are required for the temporary residence visa or permanent residence permit, to run a background check. The processing time for the automated check can take 24-36 hours to complete. The current processing time for a police certificate is 3-4 months.