The federal government has approved, in principle, a uniform online system for Police Character Certificates across Pakistan. Citizens will eventually apply for and obtain certificates from home through a central National Police Bureau platform.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi approved the plan during a meeting at the National Police Bureau in Islamabad.
“Police Clearance Certificates will now be issued through the National Police Bureau,” Naqvi said. He added that officials had streamlined, accelerated and fully digitised the earlier process. The reform aims to remove repeated visits, paperwork and different procedures across jurisdictions.
One Portal to Replace Fragmented Procedures
Police Character Certificates often support visa, immigration, employment, education and overseas residency applications. Applicants currently deal with the police authority responsible for their present or previous address.
Several regions already offer separate digital services. Punjab’s Police Khidmat Markaz portal lists character certificates, online tracking and document verification. Sindh Police operates an online portal for Special Branch character verification. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa runs a Police Clearance System with account registration and certificate verification. Islamabad Police also provides an online character certificate option.
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The federal model seeks to provide one standard route regardless of province or district. However, the government has not announced a launch date, fees or a processing timeline.
The National Police Bureau will take the central role under the approved framework. Its public guidance currently says it issues Computerized Police Clearance Certificates for Pakistani nationals connected with Spain.
That process still requires a district police certificate and supporting documents. The nationwide system would greatly expand the bureau’s existing public service.
Driving Permits Included in Wider Reform
Naqvi also ordered officials to develop a uniform system for International Driving Permits across Pakistan. Provinces and local licensing authorities currently follow their own arrangements.
He said standard systems for both documents would make travel procedures easier for Pakistanis going abroad.
“Transforming National Police Bureau into an active and dynamic institution is one of our top priorities,” he said.
The initiative could particularly help applicants who have lived in more than one district or province. Existing NPB rules for Spain require certificates covering each relevant address and jurisdiction.
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A connected national platform could reduce duplication, though officials have not explained how police databases will be integrated.
The approval remains an in-principle decision, so practical rules will follow before nationwide access begins. Authorities must define verification standards, data-sharing arrangements, payment methods and delivery procedures.
The government has not clarified whether users will receive digital certificates, printed copies, or both. Details about overseas applications and authorised representatives also remain pending.
Naqvi said the reform would simplify a process many citizens face before travelling abroad. Its success will depend on secure verification, provincial cooperation and reliable access for people with limited digital facilities.
