Criminal Background Check (South Africa)
R550.00
A criminal background check is a fast verification of whether a person has a criminal record, used for employment screening, e-hailing applications, licensing and some regulatory bodies.
Police Clear handles the check for individuals and businesses. Standard turnaround an estimated 24 to 48 hours, from R632.50 including VAT, with same-day and express options on request, subject to availability.
- Description
Description
Police Clear (Pty) Ltd is an independent document facilitation company. Background checks are conducted through official verification channels, and results are based on official records.
Is a background check the same as a police clearance certificate?
No. A criminal background check is a fast screening report. A police clearance certificate is the official SAPS certificate used for emigration, visas and travel or employment abroad.
If the document is for a visa or emigration, you will usually need the police clearance certificate. See police clearance certificate vs criminal record check.
What a criminal background check is used for
- Pre-employment and post-employment screening
- E-hailing requirements, such as Uber and Bolt
- Gambling and liquor licensing
- Regulatory compliance, including the National Credit Regulator, the South African Council for Educators and the South African Institute of Taxation
- Personal record verification
What we handle
- The criminal record check and verification
- Guidance on fingerprint capture
- Processing and submitting the application
- Confidential handling of results
What you need to start
- A South African ID or passport
- A completed application form
How long does a criminal background check take?
Standard turnaround an estimated 24 to 48 hours. Same-day and express options are available on request, subject to availability. Timeframes depend on the accuracy of the submission and system availability, and are estimates, not guarantees.
Criminal background check cost
| Criminal background check, standard | From R632.50 including VAT |
| Same-day and express options | Quoted on request |
| Turnaround | Estimated 24 to 48 hours standard |
Pricing correct as at 16 September 2026. Prices include VAT at 15%, are quoted in South African rand, are subject to change without notice, and are indicative rather than an offer. A binding price is given in a written quotation. Any statutory fees charged by SAPS, Home Affairs or another authority are set by that authority and are payable in addition unless your quotation says otherwise. DIRCO does not charge for legalisation. Timeframes are estimates, not guarantees. Our refund and cancellation terms are in our terms and conditions.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a criminal background check take?
An estimated 24 to 48 hours as standard, with same-day and express options on request, subject to availability.
Can I use a criminal background check for a visa?
Do not assume so. Embassies and immigration authorities generally ask for the SAPS police clearance certificate. Confirm with the authority before you apply.
Can employers request background checks on candidates?
Yes. We handle background checks for businesses as well as individuals.
How much is a criminal background check?
From R632.50 including VAT for the standard 24 to 48 hour service.
This page describes a document facilitation service. It is general information and is not legal or immigration advice. Requirements and timeframes are set by the relevant department, institution or authority, and change from time to time. Confirm them with that body before you rely on them.
