When applying for an Australian migration visa, demonstrating good character is a crucial requirement. One essential document you’ll need is a police clearance certificate. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process of obtaining this vital document for your Australian visa application.
Why You Need a Police Clearance Certificate
Police clearance certificates are mandatory for most Australian visa applications. You’ll need to provide a certificate if:
- You’re 16 years or older^5
- You’ve lived in any country (including your home country) for a cumulative period of 12 months or more in the last 10 years^5
These certificates serve as evidence of your moral character, allowing Australian authorities to ensure that only law-abiding individuals are granted visas^4.
Types of Police Clearance Certificates Required
Australian Federal Police (AFP) Check
If you’ve spent 12 months or more in Australia within the last 10 years, you’ll need an Australian Federal Police National Police Check^1. This is the only type of Australian police check accepted for immigration purposes – state or territory-issued certificates are not accepted^10.
Overseas Police Certificates
You must obtain police certificates from every country where you’ve lived for 12 months or more (cumulatively) in the past 10 years since turning 16^2. Each country has its own procedures for issuing these certificates.
How to Apply for an Australian Federal Police Check
Online Application Process
- Visit the AFP website and select “Get a police check”^1
- Prepare your identification documents – you’ll need at least 100 points of ID^1
- Start a new application and select the correct purpose code^1
- Complete your personal details including all current and previous names^1
- Select the correct purpose code – This is crucial:
- Upload your identification documents^1
- Review all information for accuracy^8
- Make payment – The current fee is $56^8
Required Identification Documents
You must provide at least 100 points of identification, including at least one primary document^1. Examples include:
Primary Documents (Choose at least one):
- Current passport (Australian or foreign)
- Australian driver’s license
- Australian birth certificate
- ImmiCard^3
Secondary Documents (To reach 100 points):
- Medicare card
- Credit card or account card
- Marriage certificate
- Property lease agreement
- Bank statement
- Utility bills^1
Important Considerations
Validity Period
Police certificates are only valid for 12 months from the date of issue^2^10. Ensure your certificates are valid when submitting your visa application.
Special Requirements for Some Australian States
If you’ve lived in Queensland or Victoria, you may need to provide additional documentation:
- Queensland residents: Must submit a traffic history dating back to your 18th birthday or first Australian driver’s license^7
- Victoria residents: Must submit a full license history search^7
Processing Time
Most digital AFP certificates are processed within 1-2 business days, though some may take longer^5. For overseas certificates, processing times vary by country.
Including All Names
You must include all names you’ve ever been known by (including maiden names, previous names, or aliases)^1. Failure to do so could result in the Department of Home Affairs requesting a new police clearance, delaying your visa application and incurring additional costs^1.
Final Tips
- Apply for your police clearance certificates well in advance of your visa application
- Keep digital and physical copies of all certificates
- Ensure all information matches your other visa application documents
- Only original or certified copies of police certificates are accepted^5
By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to obtain the necessary police clearance certificates for your Australian migration visa application, helping ensure a smooth and successful application process.
