Step 1:Obtain a Criminal Record Certificate from the public security bureau or police station in your registered household (hukou) area(this is free of charge)

Step 2:Take the Criminal Record Certificate to your local notary office to obtain the Police Clearance Notarisation + translation(fees apply for both the notarisation and translation)

Method 1:Online Application. Many provinces and cities across China now offer online processing. In Shanghai, for example, simply searching “Shanghai Criminal Record Certificate” + “online application” will bring up the relevant website. Many areas also allow applications via WeChat or Alipay mini-programs. Once processed, the certificate will be posted directly to your home.

Method 2:In-person Application.Bring the required documents (ID card, household registration booklet, Criminal Record Certificate application form, etc.)to your registered household area’spublic security bureau or police station. In most regions, a family member can apply on your behalf — we recommend having them contact the local public security bureau directly for specific requirements

An important note:

When filling in the stated purpose on the application form,it is generally not recommended to write “migration”, especially in smaller towns or non-metropolitan areas,as some clients have encountered deliberate delays. It is generally recommended to write“overseas travel”, “visa”, “work”, or “visiting family”and so on.

The stated purpose on the Criminal Record Certificate ultimately does not matter, as the final Police Clearance Notarisation produced by the notary office will not include any stated purpose —it will simply state that the individual has no criminal record, which fully satisfies the Department of Home Affairs’ requirements.

The Criminal Record Certificate obtained through the above process looks like this:

Police Clearance

‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍