Fingerprints are one of the most important parts of a South African Police Clearance Certificate application. If they are taken on the wrong form, copied, scanned or completed incorrectly, SAPS may not process the application.
This guide explains the current SAPS fingerprint requirements for applicants in South Africa and overseas.
Certificate Assistance can help with South African Police Clearance Certificate applications, document checks, collection and related legalisation services.
Which Fingerprint Form Does SAPS Require?
If you are living in South Africa, SAPS currently requires a full set of fingerprints on the SAPS 91(a) fingerprint form.
The fingerprints must be taken by the South African Police Service.
Can You Use a SAPS 69 Form?
For Police Clearance Certificate applications, current SAPS guidance specifically refers to the SAPS 91(a) fingerprint form for applicants in South Africa.
Because form names are often confused, applicants should follow the current SAPS Police Clearance instructions rather than relying on older references or unofficial advice.
Can Fingerprints Be Taken Outside South Africa?
Yes. If you live outside South Africa, SAPS states that you may have your fingerprints taken at a police station in the country where you live or at a South African embassy or mission.
Overseas fingerprints may be taken on the official fingerprint form used by that country, or on a SAPS 91(a) form if one is available.
Do Overseas Applicants Need to Return to South Africa?
No. You do not need to fly back to South Africa simply to have fingerprints taken for a Police Clearance application.
Once your fingerprints have been taken correctly overseas, the original fingerprint form can be submitted with the rest of the application documents for processing in South Africa.
Can You Submit Scanned or Photocopied Fingerprints?
No. SAPS currently states that photocopies or scanned versions of fingerprints will not be processed.
The original fingerprint form must be submitted.
What Details Should Appear on the Fingerprint Form?
The fingerprint form should clearly identify the applicant and should contain the personal information required by the authority taking the prints.
This may include:
- Full names and surname
- Date of birth
- Place or country of birth
- South African ID number or passport details where applicable
- The applicant's full set of fingerprints
- Details, stamp or endorsement of the police or authorised official taking the prints
Make sure your personal details match the identification documents submitted with the Police Clearance application.
Where Can You Get Fingerprints Taken in South Africa?
SAPS says applicants living in South Africa should have their fingerprints taken by the South African Police Service on the SAPS 91(a) form.
Take your original ID or passport with you, because proof of identity is required.
Where Can You Get Fingerprints Taken Overseas?
Depending on the country, suitable options can include:
- A local police station
- A national or regional police authority
- A South African embassy, high commission or consulate where the service is available
Before travelling to an office, confirm that they provide fingerprinting services and that they can issue an original fingerprint document suitable for an overseas Police Clearance application.
Do Fingerprints Need to Be Certified?
The fingerprints themselves must be taken by the appropriate police or authorised authority. What matters is that the original fingerprint form is properly completed and identifiable as having been taken by that authority.
Your ID or passport copy must also meet the certification requirements for the Police Clearance application.
What Happens If the Fingerprints Are Poor Quality?
Poor, incomplete or unclear fingerprints can delay an application because SAPS may not be able to process them properly.
To reduce problems:
- Have fingerprints taken by an experienced police or authorised officer
- Make sure all required fingers are captured
- Check that the form is legible
- Do not fold, damage or mark the fingerprint area unnecessarily
- Submit the original form, not a scan or photocopy
What Other Documents Go With the Fingerprints?
Your fingerprints are only one part of the Police Clearance application. SAPS also currently requires:
- A completed Police Clearance application form
- A certified copy of your ID or passport
- Proof of payment
- Supporting documents for maiden names or previous surnames where applicable
See the full checklist: Documents Required for a SAPS Police Clearance Certificate.
What If You Have Changed Your Surname?
If you want a maiden surname or another previous surname reflected on the Police Clearance Certificate, SAPS requires you to mention it in the application and provide documentary proof.
This can include a certified copy of a marriage certificate or another official document supporting the previous surname.
Read more: Maiden Names and Previous Surnames on a Police Clearance Certificate.
Can You Track the Application After Submission?
Yes. Once SAPS allocates an enquiry number, you can check the application through the official SAPS online status enquiry.
See our guide: How to Track a SAPS Police Clearance Certificate.
How Long Does Processing Take?
SAPS currently states that finalisation takes approximately 15 working days after all required documents are received by Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management, excluding postal time. SAPS also warns that a backlog can extend actual waiting times.
Certificate Assistance currently estimates approximately 8–10 working days for our assisted Police Clearance service, subject to SAPS processing and a complete application.
Need Help With Your Police Clearance Fingerprints?
Certificate Assistance can help you understand the correct fingerprint requirements, check the rest of your application documents and manage the South African processing and collection steps.
Current Certificate Assistance service fee: R2,550
View our Police Clearance Certificate service.
Certificate Assistance is a private document assistance service and is not affiliated with SAPS or any South African government department.
Official Source
This guide is based on the current Police Clearance Certificate requirements published by the South African Police Service.
