Getting a Police Record in the Bahamas

In the Bahamas, what some countries refer to as a police record is called a Police Character Certificate. 

It is advised that if you plan on leaving the Bahamas, you make an effort to obtain a police record beforehand. Doing this will ensure that the process will be more straightforward the next time you need a police record, even if you are not in the country. Even in another country, the need may arise to prove that you have never been convicted of a crime. 

Now we will look at the process to get a Police Character Certificate in the Bahamas.  

1. Complete the Application form for the Police certificate.
2. Ensure you have the supporting documents, which includes:

• A copy of your passport’s identification page. This copy must be certified by a Justice of the peace, Police officer or Lawyer, or Pastor.
• Copy of your fingerprints. This copy must be certified by a Justice of the peace, Police officer or Lawyer, or Pastor.
• A prepaid Package courier is a means for you to receive your police certificate. Couriers could be either FEDEX, International Airways Bill by Australia Post, and the Express Post. 
• Lastly, you would need the Application fee of US$5 on a money order made payable to the Bahamas Public Treasury.

Where do I send my documents?

Whether you are in the Bahamas or overseas, your will need to send your application and supporting documentation to:

ROYAL BAHAMAS POLICE FORCE

HEADQUARTERS

EAST STREET

P. O. Box N 458

NASSAU, BAHAMAS

No Applications can be made by email, and no uncertified documentation will be accepted. If you are not available to collect your Police Certification, someone else may collect it on your behalf. This person collecting it for you must present valid identification in the form of a Driver’s license, national identification, or passport for both themselves and the person who they are collecting for. 

What is the cost of obtaining a police record:

The cost of a Police record for local purposes is US $5, while overseas processing is $10.

How long does the processing of a criminal record take?

A standard Police certification record will take approximately 14 days, given that no arrests were made and that the person was never implicated in a situation that needs further investigation.