Police Certificates

ACRO issues Police Certificates to people who want to emigrate to, or obtain a visa for, countries including Australia, Belgium, Canada, Cayman Islands, New Zealand, South Africa and the United States of America.

The certificate details whether or not the applicant has a criminal record in the United Kingdom and is required as part of the visa process by the respective high commission or embassy. 

Please note that the certificate may also include foreign criminal history information where it has been disclosed to the UK.

Certificates are prepared in accordance with the ACRO step-down model. These guidelines do not apply to Scottish convictions. Please note that Police Certificates will contain impending prosecutions and offences that are under investigation.

Police Certificates will only be provided in a physical format and we are unable to discuss the content of the certificate until you have received it.

The Police Certificate is not intended for use to gain employment within the UK or to emigrate to the UK.

Please read our frequently asked questions for further information on Police Certificates. If you cannot find the information you are looking for, please contact ACRO Customer Services.

You can apply online by clicking the button below.

ACRO will only accept version 20 or higher of the Police Certificate application form. All previous versions will be rejected and ACRO will require a new form to be submitted before an application can be processed.

British nationals requiring a UK criminal records check for residency or citizenship overseas - guidance for British embassies

Recognising fraud