How to Get a Police Clearance Certificate in Taiwan: Step-by-Step (2024)
A **Police Criminal Record Certificate (警察刑事紀錄證明書)** in Taiwan is issued by the **National Police Agency (NPA), Ministry of the Interior**. Required for visas, work permits, adoption, residency, naturalization.
Eligibility
- **ROC nationals** (with household registration).
- **Foreign nationals** holding valid **ARC (Resident Certificate)**, **APRC**, or **Gold Card**.
- **Former residents** (apply by mail/agent with proof of prior residence).
Required Documents
- **Application Form** (NPA website → "Criminal Record Certificate Application").
- **Valid Passport** (original + photocopy bio page).
- **ARC / APRC / Gold Card** (original + photocopy) – *foreign nationals only*.
- **2-inch passport photo** (white background, taken within 6 months) – *if applying in person*.
- **Fee: NT$300** (cash, EasyCard, credit card at counter).
- **Overseas criminal record** (if required by requesting country) – apostilled/authenticated.
Application Channels
| Channel | Process | Pickup |
|---|
| In Person (any precinct / NPA service center) |
Submit docs → receipt → SMS/email when ready |
Same precinct or NPA (Zhongzheng, Taipei) |
| Online (NPA e-Service) |
Login with **Taiwan Mobile ID / NHI card / digital cert** → upload → pay |
Mail to registered address (3–5 days) or pick up |
| By Mail (from abroad) |
Notarized power of attorney + agent in Taiwan submits |
Agent picks up / mails internationally |
Processing Time
- **In person / online:** **3–5 business days** (same-day at NPA HQ if before 11 AM).
- **Mail/agent:** +7–14 days transit.
Validity & Notes
- **Valid 3 months** from issue date (most receiving authorities).
- **No criminal record = clean certificate.** Record exists → shows offense, date, disposition.
- **English version:** Request "英文版" at application; issued simultaneously.
- **Expunged records** (rehabilitation) do not appear.
Start early—**visa deadlines don't wait for police processing**.
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