If you once lived, worked, or studied in China even years ago and now need proof of a clean record, getting a Chinese police check for foreigners can feel confusing. Whether you’re applying for a visa, a new job, permanent residency, or any official clearance in the UK, you may be asked to show that you have no criminal history during your time in China.
The good news is that you can obtain this document from abroad. You don’t need to travel back. With the proper guidance and a clear understanding of the requirements, the process becomes far easier. This guide walks you through everything simply, clearly, and confidently.
What Is a Chinese Police Check?
A Chinese police check is an official certificate issued by the local Public Security Bureau that confirms you have no criminal record during your stay in China. For foreigners, this document may be referred to as:
- Chinese police clearance certificate
- Chinese police check
- Chinese police clearance certificate for foreigners
- A “No Criminal Record Certificate”
This certificate verifies three key things:
- Your identity matches the records in China
- You lived legally under a valid visa or residence permit
- You have no criminal history during your time in the country
Because it is issued locally, the PSB will only confirm your record for the place(s) where you stayed.
Why You May Need a Chinese Police Check as a Foreigner
A Chinese police certificate is often necessary for:
- Immigration, residency, or citizenship applications
- Overseas job offers that require an international background check
- Long-term visa applications (work, study, or family visas)
- Legal matters abroad, such as marriage registration or adoption
- Academic or professional licensing in another country
If any part of your life, career, or studies took place in China, the Chinese police check for foreigners becomes an essential part of your documentation.
Documents Required
- Your original passport and clear photocopies
- Pages showing your Chinese visas, residence permits, and entry/exit stamps
- Proof of legal residence in China
- Local accommodation registration or temporary residence registration
- Completed police clearance application form (varies by city)
How to Apply for a chinese police clearance for foreigners
At Helpline Group, we simplify every step for you and ensure nothing is missed.
Here’s how the process works:
1. Consultation & Document Review
Helpline Group reviews your details, your stay in China, and the city involved. Each PSB has slightly different rules, so we confirm exactly what applies to your case.
2. Preparation of Required Documents
We help you gather and prepare the documents. If you need a Power of Attorney, we assist with drafting and notarising it correctly in the UK.
3. Filing the Application in China
With our expert assistance, submit the application to the correct Public Security Bureau in the city where you live.
4. Background Check & Certificate Issuance
The PSB conducts its internal verification. If you have no criminal record, they will issue your Certificate of No Criminal Record (Chinese Police Clearance Certificate). Processing times vary by city.
5. Notarisation, Legalisation & Apostille (If Required)
Some countries require additional steps before the certificate is accepted.
Through Helpline Group, we assist in handling:
- Local notarisation
- Legalisation
- Consular authentication
- Apostille (based on destination country rules)
6. Delivery to the UK
Once completed, the certificate is securely couriered to your UK address.
Every step is coordinated and tracked by our team, so you never have to follow up with multiple offices or worry about documentation errors.
How Helpline Group Helps You
At Helpline Group, we understand that applying for a Chinese police clearance for foreigners from abroad can feel overwhelming. Different cities have different rules, and the paperwork must be exact.
With more than 25 years of global expertise and a strong presence across the GCC, the UK, India, and other regions. Obtaining a Chinese police clearance certificate from the UK doesn’t have to be stressful. With the proper guidance and a straightforward process, it becomes simple and manageable. Whether you’re preparing for immigration, a new job, or international legal procedures, Helpline Group ensures everything is done correctly and on time.
If you need expert assistance or personalised guidance, Helpline Group is here to support you from start to finish.