How to get your Police Verification Certificate in Pakistan

Employee background checks are an integral part of the recruitment process. Just as we would never trust our valuables or secrets with a stranger without knowing their background, organizations too must ensure that those they hire are trustworthy. Every new employee is given access to sensitive information and resources which, if mishandled, can severely damage the business. Therefore, conducting background checks has become a standard global practice. The process may differ across countries, but the end goal remains the same: building trust.

One important type of background check is the Criminal Record Check. It is carried out to create a safe, reliable and trustworthy working environment. When executed effectively, it supports a sustainable organizational culture by ensuring that no employee has been previously involved in any misconduct that could negatively impact the company’s assets, both physical and human. This helps ensure that no one within the workplace feels unsafe or vulnerable.

In the developed markets, processes are well-established, enabling employers to conduct such checks for all employees, regardless of their designation and this practice is followed rigorously. Due to system integration, employers can initiate criminal record checks independently without requiring the employee’s physical presence.

However, in the subcontinent, the process is different. Employers do not have direct access to centralized databases or digital portals that could provide this information. As a result, employees are often asked to obtain the necessary police clearance certificates themselves. Since most people are only told to “get it done” without proper guidance, here’s a quick step-by-step explanation of how to obtain the certificate individually.

Before we begin, let’s understand what the document actually is and why it matters.

General Police Certificate:

‍A General Police Certificate is an official document issued by local police authorities confirming that the applicant has no criminal record. The basic process is similar across all provinces. You will need to visit your nearest police station or Khidmat Markaz with your original CNIC, its photocopies and a few passport-size photographs. The certificate is typically issued within a week. In case you are residing at an address different from your permanent one, you can provide an affidavit to obtain the certificate.

Here are the links to the resources that could help you in this regard, for each of the provinces:

1. Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT)

Islamabad Police Portal

2. Punjab

‍Good news for residents of Punjab, you can easily apply online using the Punjab Police Mobile App, available on both: App Store and Play Store

Steps:

• Register on the app with your CNIC number and email.
• Navigate to Khidmat Markaz Services > General Police Verification.
• Click on Apply and select “Yes” when asked if the applicant is available in person (when applying personally).
• Upload a recent photo and enter your personal details.
• If you are a public sector employee, a departmental NOC will be required.
• Enter your address and select the police station under which your area falls.
• Provide your date of stay at your current address and the purpose for obtaining the certificate.
• Once completed, a PSID (Payment Slip ID) will be generated. Pay the total amount using an online payment service.
• The certificate will be delivered to your address within a week.

Punjab Police Khidmat Markaz Portal

3. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK)

‍KPK Police Clearance Certificate Portal

4. Sindh

‍Sindh Police Portal

You can apply through the portal by following pretty much the same steps as above. Take the Case ID to your police station with set of documents given above and you'll be able to receive the certificate.

5. Balochistan

Balochistan Police Khidmat Markaz Portal 

6. Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK)

For applicants from Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK), you can visit the nearest police station to apply for the certificate. If you are currently residing outside AJK, you can apply at the police station nearest to your present residence by submitting an affidavit along with your CNIC.

7. Gilgit-Baltistan (GB)

Gilgit Baltistan Police Khidmat Markaz Portal

Next Step:

Once you receive your certificate, ensure that it contains:

• Official stamp and signature
• Tracking ID or reference number
• Issuing date and authority

Submit a digital (PDF) copy of the certificate to your HR department once received.

Pro tips:

• Always use your current residential address for verification.
• Make sure your certificate is not older than six months.
• Keep a scanned copy for your personal records.

Final note:

This process may take a few days, but it ensures a transparent, credible hiring experience for both the employer and the employee.