A Police Clearance Certificate, officially known as a Certificate of Character in Guyana, is an official background check document issued by the Guyana Police Force. It confirms whether or not the applicant has a criminal record in Guyana. This document is commonly required for emigration, visa applications, employment, and immigration processes worldwide. This guide covers everything you need to know about obtaining one, whether you are in Guyana or applying from overseas.
In This Guide
Official Links & Resources
Guyana Police Force
Overseas Applications
Related Guides
Official Forms & Downloads
- Police Clearance Application Form (PDF) Official application form from the Guyana Police Force. Also available in-person at CID Headquarters, Eve Leary, Georgetown.
- Certificate of Character Form — NY Consulate Application form for overseas applicants via the Guyana Consulate General, New York.
- Certificate of Character — London High Commission Instructions and application details for applicants in the United Kingdom.
- Guyana Police Force — Services Portal Full list of services offered by the Guyana Police Force including police clearance.
Fingerprints: There is no separate fingerprint form. Fingerprints are taken in-person at CID Headquarters, Eve Leary, Georgetown, or through an authorized fingerprint service overseas.
What is a Certificate of Character?
A Certificate of Character (commonly called a Police Clearance Certificate) is an official document issued by the Commissioner of Police, Guyana Police Force. It states whether the applicant has any criminal convictions recorded in Guyana. The document is based on a search of police records and a fingerprint verification check against the national criminal database.
Also Known As
This document is known by several names depending on the context: Police Clearance Certificate, Certificate of Character, Police Certificate, or Good Conduct Certificate. They all refer to the same document issued by the Guyana Police Force.
Why You Need One
Common Reasons for Needing a Certificate of Character
Required Documents
Documents for Application
In-Person Application (Guyana)
If you are currently in Guyana, apply directly at the CID Headquarters at Eve Leary, Georgetown:
Obtain the Application Form
Get the Police Certificate of Character application form from CID Headquarters at Eve Leary, Georgetown. Complete all sections of the form accurately.
Get Your Photographs
Obtain three recent passport-sized photographs from any photo studio. The photos should be clear, front-facing, and on a white background.
Get Fingerprinted
Have your fingerprints taken at CID Headquarters, Eve Leary. A qualified fingerprint officer will take a complete set of 10 fingerprint impressions. This is done at the time of application submission.
Submit Application and Pay Fee
Submit your completed form, photographs, fingerprints, and supporting documents at CID Headquarters. Pay the GYD $500 fee to the Commissioner of Police. Keep your receipt.
Wait for Processing
Processing takes approximately 2-4 weeks. Your fingerprints are checked against the criminal records database. You will be notified when your certificate is ready for collection.
Collect Your Certificate
Collect your Certificate of Character from CID Headquarters. Bring your receipt and valid photo ID.
Application Through a Representative
If you are abroad but have a relative or friend in Guyana, they can submit the application on your behalf at Eve Leary. You will need to send them the completed form, photos, fingerprints (taken at an authorized facility overseas), and the fee. Processing through a representative takes approximately one week.
Fingerprinting Requirements
Fingerprints are a mandatory part of the police clearance application. A complete set of 10 fingerprint impressions must be taken by a qualified fingerprint officer at an authorized facility.
Where to Get Fingerprinted
Fingerprint Quality Matters
Ensure your fingerprints are clear and legible. Poor quality fingerprints will be rejected, causing delays. Have them taken by a qualified fingerprint officer using proper ink and card. Digital fingerprints may not be accepted - check with the embassy before submitting.
Overseas Applications
If you live outside Guyana, you have two options for obtaining a Certificate of Character:
Option 1: Through a Representative in Guyana
The fastest overseas option. Have a relative or friend in Guyana submit the application on your behalf at CID Headquarters, Eve Leary. Send them your completed form, photos, fingerprints, and fee (GYD $500). Processing takes approximately one week.
Option 2: Through a Guyana Embassy or Consulate
Apply through the nearest Guyana embassy or consulate. The application is forwarded to the Guyana Police Force in Georgetown. Processing takes 2-3 months or longer depending on the location.
Embassy-Specific Processes
Toronto, Canada
London, UK
Brussels, Belgium
New York, USA
Documents in Foreign Languages
All documents submitted in languages other than English must be accompanied by certified English translations. Original documents are typically returned to the applicant after processing.
Fees
| Location | Fee | Payment Method | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Guyana (Eve Leary) | GYD $500 (~USD $2.50) | Cash to Commissioner of Police | 2-4 weeks |
| Via representative in Guyana | GYD $500 (~USD $2.50) | Cash at Eve Leary | ~1 week |
| Toronto, Canada | CAD $10 | International money order | 2-3 months |
| London, UK | GBP £20 | Postal order or banker's draft | 3+ months |
| Brussels, Belgium | EUR €25 + €15 postage | Bank transfer | ~3 months |
| New York, USA | Contact consulate | Contact consulate | 2-3 months |
Payment Notes
All fees are payable to the Commissioner of Police. In Guyana, pay cash at CID Headquarters. For overseas applications, payment methods vary by embassy (money orders, postal orders, bank transfers). Cash is generally not accepted at embassies. Always keep your payment receipt.
Validity Period
The Certificate of Character does not have an official expiration date printed on it. However, most receiving institutions and immigration authorities have their own rules about how recent the certificate must be:
- Immigration applications (Canada, USA, UK): Typically accepted if issued within 6-12 months of the application date.
- Employment: Most employers accept certificates issued within the past 6 months.
- Visa applications: Requirements vary by country and visa type. Check with the specific embassy or immigration authority.
Plan Ahead
Given the processing times (especially for overseas applications), apply well in advance. For embassy-based applications, start at least 4-6 months before you need the document to account for processing delays. If applying from Guyana or through a representative, 1-2 months in advance should be sufficient.
Contact Information
Guyana Police Force - CID Headquarters
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A lawyer can help expedite your police clearance application or handle it on your behalf.
Browse Law FirmsFrequently Asked Questions
How much does a police clearance cost in Guyana?
In Guyana, the fee is GYD $500 (approximately USD $2.50), payable to the Commissioner of Police at CID Headquarters. Overseas fees vary: CAD $10 in Toronto, GBP £20 in London, and EUR €25 + €15 postage in Brussels. Contact the New York consulate for their current fee.
How long does it take to get a police clearance?
In-person applications at Eve Leary take approximately 2-4 weeks. Applications through a representative in Guyana take about one week. Overseas applications through embassies take 2-3 months or longer. Plan well ahead of your deadline.
Where do I get fingerprints done?
In Guyana, fingerprints are taken at CID Headquarters, Eve Leary. In Canada, use International Fingerprinting Services (416-293-2030). In the UK, contact the Metropolitan Police Fingerprint Bureau (020 7230 2099). In other countries, contact your local police or nearest Guyana embassy.
Can someone in Guyana apply on my behalf?
Yes. This is the fastest overseas option. A relative or friend in Guyana can submit your application at CID Headquarters, Eve Leary. You need to send them your completed form, three passport photos, fingerprints (taken at an authorized facility overseas), copies of your passport and birth certificate, and the GYD $500 fee. Processing takes about one week.
How long is the police clearance valid?
The certificate itself does not have an expiration date. However, most immigration authorities and employers require it to be recent - typically issued within the past 6-12 months. Check the specific requirements of the institution requesting the document.
Do I need a police clearance from every country I lived in?
Most immigration applications require police clearances from every country where you lived for 6 months or more since the age of 18 (or since the age of the country's criminal responsibility). The Guyana Certificate of Character covers your time in Guyana only. You will need separate clearances from other countries.
What if I have a criminal record in Guyana?
If you have a criminal record, the Certificate of Character will state this. The impact on your application (immigration, employment, etc.) depends on the nature and severity of the offence and the requirements of the receiving country or institution. Some minor offences may not affect your application. Consult with an immigration lawyer if you are concerned.
Can I get a police clearance for a deceased person?
Police clearance certificates are generally issued to living individuals only. If you need to verify a deceased person's record for estate or legal purposes, contact the Guyana Police Force directly to discuss your specific situation.
Is a police clearance the same as a background check?
The Guyana Certificate of Character is specifically a check of police criminal records. It is not a comprehensive background check that includes employment history, credit history, or other records. It confirms only whether you have criminal convictions recorded in Guyana.
Can I apply online for a police clearance?
Currently, there is no online application system for the Guyana Certificate of Character. Applications must be submitted in person at Eve Leary, through a representative in Guyana, or through a Guyana embassy or consulate abroad. Physical fingerprints are required, which cannot be submitted digitally.
Last updated: April 2, 2026. Police clearance requirements and fees may change. Always verify current requirements with the Guyana Police Force or your nearest Guyana embassy before applying. For general government services information, see our Government Services hub.