Thinking of moving abroad or applying for a visa? You may need an ACRO Police Certificate to prove your criminal record history. This guide explains everything you need to know: what it is, who needs it, how to apply, and whether you’ll also need an Apostille certificate to make it valid overseas.
What is an ACRO Police Certificate?
An ACRO Police Certificate is an official document issued by the ACRO Criminal Records Office, part of UK law enforcement. It details any convictions, cautions, reprimands or other police-held information about an individual. It’s widely requested by foreign governments, visa offices, and employers for immigration and security clearance purposes.
Who Needs an ACRO Police Certificate?
You may need an ACRO certificate if:
- You’re applying for a visa to countries like the Spain, Portugal, Italy, USA, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand, etc.
- You’re working or volunteering abroad.
- You’re undergoing international adoption processes.
- You’re applying for permanent residency or citizenship abroad.
When Should You Apply for an ACRO Certificate?
Apply at least 5–6 weeks before your deadline. The standard service takes up to 30 days, and delays are possible during busy periods. If time is critical, you can opt for the Premium service, though it costs more.
UPDATE JULY 2026: ACRO is currently facing very high demand, and they are no longer accepting PREMIUM applications.
If you are planning on using GOV.UK for the Apostille, you should consider:
- ACRO processing time: Up to 30 days to issue the ACRO.
- GOV.UK processing time: Up to 25 working days to issue the Apostille.
- The total time can be up to 55 days.
If time is of the essence, we recommend:
- Order your ACRO and have it sent directly to Ace Apostille office.
- By using Ace Apostille, the Apostille process is completed within 1-2 working days.
How Do I Get an ACRO Certificate?
Step-by-Step Guide
- Apply online via the official ACRO Police Certificates Portal.
- Upload supporting documents: passport scan, proof of address, and any required counter-signatory forms.
- Choose your service level:
- Standard (30 days) – £70
Premium (2 working days) – £125
- Pay online via debit or credit card.
- Wait for your certificate to arrive by post or request courier delivery for faster receipt.
Pro-tip: If you need an Apostille for your ACRO, send the delivery directly to Ace Apostille to avoid extra postage costs and delays.
What Documents Do You Need for an ACRO Application?
To apply for a Police Certificate, you will need to complete an online application form. To complete this form, you will need to provide the applicant’s personal information and the following:
- A recent passport-style photograph of the applicant.
- Colour copies of the applicant’s passport or travel document.
- A valid email address
- The applicant’s address history for the last 10 years
- Details of the applicant’s impending prosecutions and past convictions
- A valid debit or credit card to make payment
- If you are applying on behalf of another person, you will also be required to provide some additional information.
More info: ACRO Police Certificates Contact Page
Does an ACRO Certificate Need Legalisation or Apostille?
If you’re using your ACRO certificate in a country that’s a member of the Hague Apostille Convention, it likely needs to be legalised with an Apostille. This proves the document is genuine and accepted abroad.
You can order an Apostille quickly with Ace Apostille.
Just order your apostille certificate here: 👉 Order ACRO Apostille Online
What Happens After You Receive Your Certificate?
- Check your certificate carefully for any errors.
- If required, legalise it with an Apostille.
- Submit to the embassy, visa office, or foreign employer within its validity period (usually 3–6 months).
Need help with legalisation? Read our Apostille Guide
Common Questions About ACRO Police Certificates
What is ACRO Certificate?
An ACRO Certificate is a formal police document showing your criminal record history (if any) in the UK. It’s used for visa, immigration, and security clearance.
How much does a ACRO Certificate cost?
- Standard applications: £70 – up to 30 working days to process
Premium applications: £125 – up to two working days to process
As of July of 2026, ACRO is no longer accepting Premium applications.
How do I get an ACRO certificate?
You can apply online through the ACRO Police Certificates website. Upload your documents, pay the fee, and receive your certificate by post.
What is the difference between DBS and ACRO?
A DBS check is for UK-based employment and volunteering. An ACRO certificate is used for international purposes like immigration and visa applications.
What does ACRO stand for?
ACRO stands for Association of Chief Police Officers Criminal Records Office. It is now a standalone UK law enforcement organisation managing international criminal records.
Does ACRO need Apostille?
Yes, if you’re presenting it in a country that requires legalised UK documents, it needs an Apostille. You can order one online at Ace Apostille.
Do I need ACRO to move to Spain?
Yes, most Spanish visa or residency applications require a criminal record check like an ACRO Police Certificate, often with an Apostille.
Ready to Legalise Your ACRO Certificate?
Get your ACRO Apostille in as little as 1–2 working days.
Order Your Apostille Online Today
