What is COC?
Certain documents are mandated by an individual who inhabits and works in Singapore. One of them is the Certificate of Clearance (COC).
The COC is handed out by the Criminal Investigation Department of the Singapore Police Force (SPF). It certifies that the concerned subordinate has no prior illicit conviction in Singapore.
A COC is important in Singapore for various reasons, including employment, education, adoption, purchasing property, and migration.
How to apply for COC?
To apply for a COC, it is mandatory to use SPF’s eService portal. If you require more information about COC applications, please visit SPF’s website or send an email directly to spf_coc_office@spf.gov.sg.
How do I apply for COC as a Foreign National & Singapore Permanent Resident?
To apply for COC, the following criteria should be met:
- The applicant should be at least 16 years or older.
- The applicant must have stayed in Singapore for at least six months with a valid pass issued by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) or Immigrations Checkpoint Authority (ICA).
- Have valid documentation showing that a COC is necessary for international travel as mandated by the foreign government authority or institution.
- Documents required for the application:
- A SingPass or a Foreign Identification Number.
- Scanned copy of the document indicating the provision and purpose of COC.
- Scanned identification document or ID (both front and back page) i.e; work permit, National Registration Identity card, etc.
- Scanned passport-size photo.
- Original hardcopy of fingerprint images.
- For online payments, you must have a valid credit/debit card (VISA/MASTERCARD) or i-Banking account.
How can I apply for COC as a Singapore Citizen?
If you are a Singaporean citizen, utilise Singpass to access the online application form and complete the COC application. Once your application is accepted, the certificate will be sent to the address specified in the form without requiring fingerprint impressions or scheduling an appointment.