If you’re applying for a job, visa, or immigration abroad, you’ll often be asked for a police clearance certificate proving you have no criminal record in India. Kerala Police now handles this entirely online through a dedicated portal. This guide explains how to apply for a Kerala police clearance certificate step by step. If you’re applying for other government certificates too, see our guide on how to apply for a legal heir certificate online.

What Is a Police Clearance Certificate and Who Needs One

A police clearance certificate (PCC) is an official document confirming that the applicant has no pending criminal cases or convictions on record. It’s most commonly requested for overseas employment, immigration, long-term visas, and higher education applications abroad. Kerala Police issues PCCs to residents applying from within the state, from elsewhere in India, and even from abroad.

Where to Apply: The THUNA Portal

Kerala Police runs its PCC applications through the THUNA portal at thuna.keralapolice.gov.in, along with a companion mobile app called Pol App. Both let you register, fill out your application, upload documents, and pay fees without visiting a police station in person – though local verification still happens through your jurisdictional station.

Documents Required for the Application

Keep these ready before you start:

• Aadhaar card or another accepted address proof, such as ration card, voter ID, passport, or bank passbook copy
• A valid photo ID such as passport, voter ID, or driving licence
• Recent passport-size photograph
• Proof of why you need the certificate, such as a visa letter or job offer, if applicable
• An active mobile number for OTP verification and status updates

Fees for the Police Clearance Certificate

The standard fee for a police clearance certificate in Kerala is around Rs. 500, though online applications through THUNA may include a small additional service charge, bringing the total closer to Rs. 600. Payment can be made online through the portal, or in some cases through the e-Treasury system.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for Kerala Police Clearance Certificate Online

Here’s how the process works from start to finish:

1. Visit the THUNA portal at thuna.keralapolice.gov.in or open the Pol App.
2. Register with your mobile number and verify with the OTP sent to you.
3. Select the Police Clearance Certificate service from the list of options.
4. Fill in your personal details, current address, and the purpose of the certificate.
5. Upload scanned copies of your ID proof, address proof, and photograph.
6. Pay the applicable fee online and save your acknowledgment.
7. Track your application status on the portal while your local police station carries out verification.

How Verification and Delivery Work

After you submit your application, it’s forwarded to your local police station for address and background verification. This may involve a phone call or, in some cases, a visit to your registered address. Once the Station House Officer confirms everything checks out, the certificate is issued, and you can download it directly from the THUNA portal.

Applying From Outside Kerala or Abroad

If you’re currently outside Kerala or abroad, you can still apply by downloading the application form from the Kerala Police website and emailing it to the relevant Station House Officer, along with scanned documents. You can authorize someone in Kerala to collect the physical certificate on your behalf, or request it be sent to you electronically once issued.