How to get a police certificate – Switzerland
If you need to give your fingerprints for a police certificate, this isn’t the same as giving your biometrics (fingerprints and photo) for an application.
Name of the document you need
Excerpt from the Swiss criminal records (Privatauszug)
Police certificate and IRCC requirements
You must provide a police certificate when you apply for:
- permanent residence
- citizenship
- some temporary residence programs
Check your application package or instructions for details.
How to apply
Apply online or by mail to Schweizerisches Strafregister.
Special considerations
IRCC does not require documents to be legalized (apostille).
The certificate covers both Switzerland and Liechtenstein.
Police certificates for IEC applicants
Swiss citizens don’t need a police certificate for IEC applications. We may request one at a later time if needed.
Contact information
Federal Office of JusticeSwiss Criminal Records Section
Service for Private Individuals
Bundesrain 20
CH-3003 Berne
Switzerland/Schweiz/Suisse/Svizzera
Tel. +41 58 465 01 98
For more information or for an online application form, see the Federal Office of Justice website (available in English, French, German and Italian).