Singapore Certificate of Clearance COC | Police Clearance Certificate
A Certificate of Clearance (COC) is an official document issued by the Singapore Police Force (SPF) certifying that an individual has no criminal convictions within a specified period in Singapore. This certificate is often required for purposes such as migration, adoption, overseas employment, or further education.
The Certificate of Clearance (COC) is issued by the Singapore Police Force (SPF) to certify that an individual has no criminal convictions during their period of residence in Singapore and is recognized globally.Also known as the Police Clearance Certificate or Certificate of Good Conduct, it is an essential document for those seeking to demonstrate a clean criminal record for overseas authorities.
It is commonly required for:
- Migration and visa applications
- Overseas employment
- Further education
- Adoption procedures
Why is the COC Important?
The COC is a testament to an individual’s clean legal history in Singapore, ensuring their eligibility for global opportunities. It plays a similar role to the Good Standing Certificate for businesses, which confirms compliance with legal and regulatory obligations in Singapore.
Who Can Apply for a COC?
Singapore Citizens
- Must be at least 16 years old.
- Must provide proof of the need for the COC, such as a letter from an overseas authority.
Non-Singapore Citizens
- Non-citizens who previously lived, worked, or studied in Singapore can apply.
- As of May 16, 2024, non-citizens no longer need to appeal before submitting an application.
- Proof of stay (e.g., Employment Pass, Work Permit, Dependent Pass) is required.
Note: Alternatives to a COC, such as a Statutory Declaration from a Commissioner of Oaths or qualified practitioner, may be considered if acceptable to the requesting authority.
Key Requirements and Document Checklist
Required Documents Checklist
- Passport-sized photograph (borderless, white background, minimum resolution of 400 x 514 pixels).
- Documentary proof of the purpose for which the COC is required.
- Scanned copy of the biometric page of your valid passport.
- NRIC/FIN ID (front and back), if applicable.
- Fingerprint Form (for non-citizens).
Key Documents Required
Singapore Citizens:
- Passport (original and photocopy)
- Proof of Purpose (e.g., a letter from an overseas authority)
- Payment Receipt (generated during online submission)
Non-Singapore Citizens:
- Passport (original and photocopy)
- Proof of Residency in Singapore (e.g., work pass, dependent pass)
- Fingerprint Form (completed at an authorized institution)
- Payment Receipt (generated during online submission)
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Step-by-Step Application Process To Apply for a COC
Step 1: Gather Documents
Ensure all documents are up-to-date and properly scanned.
Step 2: Submit an Online Application
Visit the SPF e-Services Portal.
- Log in using:
- Singpass for Singapore citizens.
- FIN or passport number for non-Singapore citizens.
- Complete the online application form:
- Fill in your personal details.
- Upload the required documents (in PDF format).
- Specify the purpose of your application.
- Provide an accurate email address for notifications.
- Indicate your preferred collection or mailing address.
- Make the application payment (SGD 55).
Step 3: Submit Fingerprints
For Singapore Citizens:
- Fingerprint submission is not required.
For Non-Singapore Citizens:
- Non-citizens must submit their fingerprints. Instructions for this are detailed below.
Send the original fingerprint form and application receipt to: Certificate of Clearance Office, Singapore Police Force, Block D, #02-07/08, Police Cantonment Complex, Singapore 088756.
Step 4: Wait for Processing
Processing begins only after all documents and fingerprints are received.
Processing Time and Fees
- Processing Time: Typically 7 working days from the submission of a complete application.
- Application Fee: SGD 55.
- An additional SGD 5 for certificates mailed to overseas addresses.
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How to Track Your COC Singapore Application Status
Track the status of your application via the SPF e-Services Portal:
- Log in with your credentials.
- Navigate to “My Applications”.
- View updates or receive notifications about your application.
Special Instructions for Non-Citizens Without Singpass/FIN
Non-citizens without a Singpass or FIN number must:
- Contact the Relevant Agency:
- Employment Pass Holders: Email the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) at mom_wpd@mom.gov.sg.
- Student Pass/Visitors: Contact the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) at ICA Feedback Form.
- Obtain an NRIC/FIN Number: Once received, log in to Go.gov.sg to complete the application.
- Fingerprint Submission: Mail the completed fingerprint form and receipt to the COC Office.
How to Request a Duplicate COC
If you lose your COC or require additional copies, you can apply for a duplicate:
- If the original application was made within the last 6 months, request a duplicate for SGD 25.
- If the original application is older than 6 months, you must reapply for a new COC.
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Need urgent document Attestation? We offer expedited Attestation services for all type of documents across Singapore. Contact us for a quote. Our Attestation & translations are accepted by all government departments and embassies.
Alternatives to a Certificate of Clearance
What is a Statutory Declaration?
A Statutory Declaration is a sworn statement attesting to the absence of any criminal convictions. It can be obtained through a Commissioner of Oaths or a qualified legal practitioner in Singapore and is often faster and more cost-effective compared to a COC.
How to Obtain a Statutory Declaration
- Visit a Commissioner of Oaths or a qualified lawyer in Singapore.
- Prepare a sworn statement declaring no criminal convictions.
- Verify whether the foreign authority will accept a statutory declaration as an alternative.
Statutory declarations are often quicker and more cost-effective, with fees starting at SGD 25.
CERTIFICATE OF CLEARANCE APPEAL FORM / Application Form Overview
The application form captures essential details such as:
- Personal particulars (e.g., name, address, passport details).
- Purpose of application (e.g., migration, education, employment).
- Supporting documentation and reasons for appeal (if applicable).
- Fingerprint impressions and declaration of any past convictions.
Ensure accurate and complete information to avoid delays in processing.
Attestation Services in Singapore: Fast and Reliable Document Attestation
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Any Certificate attestation From the Following Countries
Comparison: COC vs. Good Standing Certificate
| Feature | COC (Certificate of Clearance) | Good Standing Certificate |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Certifies no criminal record | Verifies compliance with legal obligations |
| Applicable To | Individuals | Businesses and professionals |
| Issued By | Singapore Police Force | ACRA or relevant authorities |
| Use Cases | Migration, employment, education | Business credibility, professional licensing |
| Application Method | SPF eServices Portal | ACRA application portal |
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Required Documents for Singapore Certificate of Clearance (COC)
Documents Required
- Application Form (and Appeal Form, if applicable).
- Photocopy of Passport: Biometric page only (original for in-person verification).
- Two Passport-sized Photos: 3.5 cm x 4.5 cm, borderless, white background.
- Proof of Requirement: Documentation from the requesting authority (translated to English, if applicable).
- Fingerprint Impressions:
- Walk-in applicants: Taken at the COC office.
- By post: Submit a full set of 10 fingerprint impressions taken by a qualified officer.