A Police Clearance Certificate (PCC), also known as a “Criminal Record Certificate” or “Certificate of Good Conduct” (Politiattest in Norwegian), is an official document issued by the Norwegian Police Service that verifies whether an individual has any criminal record in Norway. This document is often required for various purposes, including visa applications, residency permits, employment applications, adoption processes, and other legal procedures both within Norway and internationally.
This article provides comprehensive guidance on the process of obtaining a Police Clearance Certificate from Norway, detailing the eligibility criteria, application procedures, required documentation, processing times, and other essential information. Understanding these procedures is crucial for individuals who need to prove their clean criminal record status for international document transactions.
Types of Police Clearance Certificates in Norway
Norway issues several types of Police Clearance Certificates depending on the purpose and the requesting entity:
- Standard Certificate (Ordinær Politiattest): Shows convictions for most types of criminal offenses.
- Limited Certificate (Begrenset Politiattest): Shows only specific offenses relevant to particular positions, such as working with children.
- Comprehensive Certificate (Uttømmende Politiattest): Contains all registered criminal offenses without time limitations.
- Extended Certificate (Utvidet Politiattest): Contains information about ongoing investigations and charges in addition to convictions.
The type of certificate required depends on the purpose for which it is needed, and the requesting party must specify which type they need according to Norwegian law.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible to apply for a Norwegian Police Clearance Certificate, you must:
- Have a legitimate purpose for requesting the certificate, as defined by Norwegian law.
- Be at least 15 years old.
- Have lived in Norway or have Norwegian citizenship.
- Have a Norwegian personal identification number (fødselsnummer) or D-number.
- Present proper identification.
Application Process
Online Application
The most efficient method to apply for a Norwegian Police Clearance Certificate is through the online portal:
- Visit the Norwegian Police Service website (politiet.no).
- Navigate to the “Police Certificate” (Politiattest) section.
- Log in using your Norwegian electronic ID (BankID, Buypass, or Commfides).
- Select the type of certificate required.
- Upload the required documentation, including the request letter from the authority requiring the certificate.
- Submit your application.
Paper Application
If you cannot apply online, you can submit a paper application:
- Download the application form from the Norwegian Police Service website.
- Complete the form with all required information.
- Attach all necessary supporting documents.
- Send the application by mail to:Politiets enhet for vandelskontroll og politiattester Postboks 113 9951 Vardø Norway
Application from Abroad
For individuals residing outside Norway:
- The same online process can be followed if you have a Norwegian electronic ID.
- Without a Norwegian electronic ID, you must use the paper application process.
- Your identity must be verified by a Norwegian embassy or consulate, or by a foreign notary public.
- The application must be sent directly to the Norwegian Police Service.
Required Documentation
The following documents are typically required for a Police Clearance Certificate application:
- Proof of Identity: Valid passport, Norwegian ID card, or driver’s license.
- Purpose Statement: A formal letter or document from the requesting authority stating why the certificate is needed.
- Power of Attorney: If someone is applying on your behalf.
- Proof of Residence: If applying from outside Norway.
- D-number or Norwegian Personal Identification Number: Required for processing.
All documents in languages other than Norwegian, Swedish, Danish, or English must be translated by an authorized translator.
Processing Times and Fees
Processing Times
The processing time for a Norwegian Police Clearance Certificate typically ranges from:
- 2-4 weeks for standard applications
- Up to 6-8 weeks during high-volume periods
- Potentially longer for complex cases or applications from abroad
It is advisable to apply well in advance of when the certificate is needed.
Fees
There is generally no fee for obtaining a Police Clearance Certificate in Norway when it is required by law or regulation. However, if the certificate is requested for purposes not specified in Norwegian law, a fee may apply. Current fee information can be found on the Norwegian Police Service website.
Validity Period
Norwegian Police Clearance Certificates do not have an official expiration date. However, most authorities and foreign embassies consider them valid for 3-6 months from the date of issue. It is important to check with the specific authority requiring the certificate about their validity requirements.
Special Considerations
For Former Residents
Individuals who previously resided in Norway but have since moved abroad can still apply for a Police Clearance Certificate following the procedures for applications from abroad.
For Norwegian Citizens Born Abroad
Norwegian citizens who were born and have lived entirely outside Norway may still need to obtain a certificate to confirm they have no criminal record in Norway.
For Refugees and Asylum Seekers
Special procedures may apply for refugees and asylum seekers who cannot contact authorities in their home countries. The Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) can provide guidance in such cases.
Apostille Authentication
For international use, Norwegian Police Clearance Certificates often require Apostille certification:
- After receiving your Police Clearance Certificate, it must be authenticated with an Apostille stamp if the receiving country is a member of the Hague Convention.
- The Apostille is issued by the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Utenriksdepartementet).
- Applications for Apostille certification can be submitted online or by mail.
- There is a fee for the Apostille service.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Missing Documentation
If your application is returned due to missing documentation, promptly provide the requested items and resubmit.
Name Changes
If you have changed your name, provide documentation of all previous names used in Norway.
Criminal Record Issues
If you have a criminal record, it will be indicated on your certificate. The specific information included depends on the type of certificate and the nature and timing of the offenses.
Urgent Requests
The Norwegian Police Service generally does not expedite applications, so plan accordingly. In genuinely urgent situations, you can contact them directly to explain your circumstances.
Conclusion
Obtaining a Police Clearance Certificate from Norway involves a structured process that requires attention to detail and proper planning. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, applicants can navigate the process efficiently and ensure they receive their certificates in a timely manner. For complex cases or specific questions, it is advisable to contact the Norwegian Police Service directly or seek professional legal assistance.
About Soylu Law
Soylu Law specializes in managing international document processes, including obtaining criminal record certificates and apostille certifications from countries worldwide. Our experienced legal team provides comprehensive support for all your international documentation needs, ensuring smooth and efficient processing for business, immigration, and personal purposes.
Contact us for professional assistance with your Norwegian Police Clearance Certificate and other international legal document requirements.
