PCC - Do I Need A Police Clearance Certificate To Apply?
No, you do not need to provide a Police Clearance Certificate when initially applying for refugee status through the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP).
Only get a PCC if :
1. It has been requested of you by USCIS/COW,
2. or you know that you had issues,
The application and interview process work as follows:
- Security Screening: Instead of requiring you to supply a certificate, the U.S. government conducts its own comprehensive security vetting, which includes both biographic and biometric checks (fingerprints).
- Documentary Evidence: For the refugee application, you primarily need to provide evidence of persecution or a well-founded fear of future persecution. You may submit police or government reports if they relate directly to threats, harm, or persecution you experienced.
- General Visa Processes: Police clearances are heavily required for standard U.S. immigrant and tourist visas; however, USRAP processes applicants differently due to the emergency nature of refugee claims.
With love
Accidental Refugee
Source: US Embassy USRAP