A police clearance certificate for German migration is a mandatory document in most work-visa applications. A police clearance certificate for German migration must be the correct type and still valid. This article guides you through this document.
What is required for a police clearance certificate for German migration
A police clearance certificate for German migration requires Judicial Record Card No. 2, issued by Vietnam’s Department of Justice. This card shows full details of any criminal record, if any. Card No. 1 (which only shows the absence of a criminal record) is usually not sufficient for a German migration application.
After obtaining the original card, it must be notarized-translated into German and legalized (via Vietnam’s Department of Foreign Affairs and the German Consulate). The card is usually valid for 3–6 months from the date of issue for visa purposes.
Where to apply for the card
Vietnamese applicants apply for Judicial Record Card No. 2 at the Department of Justice of the province/city where they are registered for permanent household residence. It can be submitted in person or through the public postal service. Processing usually takes 10–15 working days.
People who have lived in another country for a sufficient period (usually 6 months or more within the past 5 years) may be required to provide an additional police clearance certificate from that country. Specific requirements depend on the consulate and visa type.
Important Notes
The card must still be valid at the time the visa application is submitted. If the application process is prolonged, a new card may need to be obtained. You should check the validity period against your application timeline.
Honestly declaring any criminal record (if any) is a mandatory requirement. Declaring incomplete or false information has serious consequences, including visa cancellation and a ban on reapplying for a long period. You should be honest and apply for the correct type of card.
You should refer to Make it in Germany and trang Bo Noi vu Lien bang Duc to check current conditions.
Summary
A police clearance certificate for German migration requires Card No. 2 (showing full criminal record details, if any), not Card No. 1. Apply at the Department of Justice of your registered province, taking 10–15 days. It must be notarized-translated and legalized, valid for 3–6 months. People who have lived in another country may need an additional card from that country. You must declare honestly.
