Police Clearance Certificates: How to Obtain and Use Them

Professional drivers moving from Dubai to Romania are in a strong position to leverage European market access, better cross-border routes, and stable, long-term contracts. But before your Romanian work visa is approved, one item can make or break your timeline: your Police Clearance Certificate (PCC).

If you've driven professionally across the Gulf, you likely need more than one criminal background check—for the UAE, your home country, and sometimes other countries where you lived for six months or longer. This comprehensive guide walks you through how to obtain and use PCCs specifically for the Dubai-to-Romania transition, with practical steps, timelines, and Romania-focused tips to keep your relocation on track.

Introduction: Why PCCs Matter for Dubai-to-Romania Moves

Romania’s logistics sector is growing fast, and companies are hiring international drivers for domestic and EU routes. However, Romanian immigration authorities expect clean and properly legalized background checks. Whether you’re applying for a long-stay visa for employment (commonly referred to as the D/AM work visa), getting your residence permit in Romania, or onboarding with a top Romanian carrier, PCCs prove you meet the legal and safety standards of the EU market.

For UAE-based drivers, the main background check is the Dubai Police Good Conduct Certificate (a UAE Police Clearance Certificate). Most drivers also need a PCC from their home country (for example, India, Pakistan, the Philippines) and any other country where they have lived in the last few years. Because these checks expire quickly and require specific legalizations (apostille or consular), careful planning saves weeks—or even months.

In this guide, you’ll learn:

Which PCCs are required for Romanian work visas
How to obtain the UAE police clearance (Dubai Police Good Conduct Certificate)
How to get background checks from your home country and previous countries of residence
Apostille vs. legalization and Romanian translation requirements
Practical timelines, cost-saving tips, and employer expectations in Romania
Industry insights: routes, pay, and integration into Romanian trucking

Understanding Police Clearance Certificates in the Romanian Context

Before collecting documents, it helps to understand how PCCs fit into Romania’s immigration process for professional drivers.

When and where PCCs are required

Work authorization: Your Romanian employer typically applies to the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI) for your work authorization (work permit). While the employer submits most documents, you should have your background verification ready because the consulate will require it at the visa stage.
D/AM long-stay work visa: You submit your visa application at the Romanian Embassy/Consulate (in the UAE, usually in Abu Dhabi or Dubai). The application usually requires a criminal record certificate (police clearance) or an equivalent affidavit from countries of recent residence.
Residence permit (after arrival): While a fresh PCC may not always be required when converting your visa to a residence permit, some local offices or specific employer onboarding processes may ask to see it again. Always retain multiple copies.

Important: Requirements can vary slightly by consulate and by the specifics of your employment (for example, standard employee vs. posted worker). Always verify the latest checklist from the Romanian consulate where you will apply.

Which countries must issue your PCC?

UAE (Dubai Police Good Conduct Certificate) if you’ve been resident in the UAE.
Home country PCC (e.g., India, Pakistan, Philippines).
Any other country where you lived 6+ months in the last 3–5 years (e.g., Saudi Arabia, Qatar).

Validity and timing

Most Romanian consulates consider PCCs valid if issued within the last 3–6 months at the time of visa application. Three months is the safest standard.
Plan backward from your visa appointment date; you want all PCCs within the validity window together to avoid one expiring.

Apostille, legalization, and translation for Romania

Apostille vs. legalization: Romania is a party to the Hague Apostille Convention. The UAE is also a party, so in most cases a UAE-issued PCC can be apostilled instead of going through traditional embassy legalization. For non-Apostille countries, you must follow the consular legalization route.
Translation: Romanian authorities may require an official Romanian translation by a sworn translator. Many PCCs are issued in English, but for the visa/residence permit file in Romania, Romanian translations are commonly requested. Always confirm with the consulate.
Who can translate? Use a sworn translator authorized in Romania or a certified translator acceptable to the consulate. If translating in Romania, you can have translations notarized locally.

Obtaining a UAE Police Clearance (Dubai Police Good Conduct Certificate)

The UAE PCC is one of the most time-sensitive documents for Dubai-based drivers. Here’s how to secure it efficiently.

What is it?

Officially called the “Certificate of Good Conduct” or “Police Clearance Certificate.”
Issued by Dubai Police (or relevant Emirate police authority). For most Dubai residents and ex-residents, the Dubai Police PCC is the go-to.

Who needs it?

Current UAE residents holding a valid Emirates ID.
Former residents who no longer hold a valid Emirates ID (process includes fingerprints via diplomatic channels or authorized providers).

Step-by-step for current UAE residents (with Emirates ID)

Create/login to Dubai Police account (website or app).
Select “Police Clearance Certificate.”
Choose the purpose (e.g., work/immigration) and the destination country (Romania).
Upload documents:
- Emirates ID
- Passport copy
- Passport-sized photo (as requested)
- Provide a valid email for delivery
Pay the fee online. Fees vary depending on nationality and whether the certificate is in Arabic or English; always check current rates in the app.
Processing: Many certificates are issued electronically within 24–48 hours and sent by email as a PDF. Some may take longer if additional checks are needed.
Apostille: After issuance, obtain an apostille in the UAE (check the official Apostille channel where UAE authorities issue e-Apostilles). Follow current UAE guidance on apostille for police certificates.
Translation: Arrange Romanian translation if required by the Romanian consulate or later by IGI.

Tip: Order multiple originals or request extra copies if available. Keep secure digital copies.

Step-by-step for former residents (no valid Emirates ID)

Visit the Dubai Police website/app and select “Police Clearance Certificate” for ex-residents.
Prepare documents:
- Copy of old Emirates ID (if available) or visa page
- Passport copy
- Passport photo
- Fingerprint card (if requested), taken at a police station in your current country of residence or at an embassy-authorized fingerprint service. The fingerprint card often needs to be authenticated by local authorities and then legalized/apostilled for the UAE.
Submit the application online.
Pay the applicable fee.
Processing may take longer than for residents, especially if fingerprint validation is required.
After issuance, obtain the UAE apostille for international use.
Translate into Romanian if needed.

Common UAE PCC details

Languages: Usually available in English and Arabic.
Validity: Commonly accepted if issued within 3 months at the time of visa.
Expected timeframe: 2–5 business days for current residents; 1–3 weeks for ex-residents requiring fingerprints.
Fees: Subject to change—always verify in the Dubai Police app/website.

Frequent issues and how to avoid them

Name mismatches: Ensure your name matches your passport exactly (including order and spelling). Update your profile before submission if necessary.
Old mobile/email: Update contact details so you receive the digital certificate.
Apostille confusion: Make sure you follow the UAE’s official e-Apostille process—do not assume a notarization equals apostille.
Destination country: Select “Romania” if the system asks; it can help ensure the correct formatting.

Getting PCCs from Your Home Country and Other Countries Lived In

Most Romanian work visas for non-EU nationals require a PCC from your home country and potentially from any country where you lived for 6+ months in the last few years. Below are high-level guides for common nationalities among professional drivers in the Gulf, plus GCC-specific notes.

India: Police Clearance Certificate (PCC)

Where to apply: Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Indian missions abroad.
Documents: Passport, application form, recent photos, proof of address. If applying outside India, additional documents may be required by the mission.
Processing: Often 1–3 weeks; can vary by jurisdiction and whether a police verification is needed.
Legalization: India is a Hague Apostille Convention member. Obtain an apostille from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) or via authorized service centers.
Translation: If issued in English, Romanian translation may still be required by Romanian authorities.

Pakistan: Police Character Certificate

Where to apply: Your local District Police Office (DPO) in Pakistan or through Pakistani missions abroad, depending on your domicile.
Documents: CNIC, passport, photos, application form, possibly proof of residence.
Processing: Typically 1–3 weeks; can vary widely by district.
Legalization: Pakistan is an Apostille Convention member (as of 2023). Obtain an apostille as per current procedures, or follow consular legalization if requested by the Romanian consulate.
Translation: Likely needed into Romanian.

Philippines: NBI Clearance for Abroad

Where to apply: NBI offices in the Philippines or at Philippine Overseas Employment Administration channels; for abroad, follow instructions via Philippine embassies/consulates.
Documents: Passport, application form; fingerprinting may be required for overseas applicants.
Processing: 1–3 weeks generally; allow longer if hitting name “hits.”
Legalization: The Philippines is a Hague Apostille member—use apostille. Confirm the type of NBI certificate (for travel abroad) is apostilled properly.
Translation: Romanian translation often required.

Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka: General guidance

Apply through national police headquarters or designated offices; overseas applicants often need fingerprint cards authenticated by their embassy.
Check whether your country is part of the Apostille Convention; if not, you must follow consular legalization through the Romanian mission.
Expect 2–6 weeks depending on local police procedures and embassy logistics.

Saudi Arabia: Police Clearance for ex-residents

Process often requires a letter from your embassy in KSA and fingerprinting.
If outside KSA, you may need to coordinate through the Saudi embassy and your home country’s police authority for fingerprint authentication.
Legalization: Saudi Arabia acceded to the Apostille Convention—check current status and whether apostille is accepted by the Romanian consulate in your jurisdiction. If not, proceed with consular legalization via the Saudi and Romanian missions.

Qatar: Police Clearance Certificate for ex-residents

Apply online via MOI or through embassies; may require fingerprint card authenticated by your current local police and foreign ministry.
Processing time: Typically 2–4 weeks.
Legalization: Qatar is part of the Apostille Convention—confirm acceptance for Romanian use. Otherwise, follow consular legalization.

Synchronizing issue dates across multiple PCCs

Work backward from your Romanian visa appointment. Aim to have all PCCs issued within 60–90 days of that date.
Start first with the certificates that take longest (often home country or older GCC countries) and finish with the fastest (UAE). This reduces the chance of one expiring while you await another.

How to Use Your PCC in the Romanian Work Visa Process

For professional drivers, the standard pathway involves a Romanian employer sponsoring your work authorization, followed by your visa application in the UAE.

Step 1: Employer obtains work authorization (work permit)

The Romanian employer applies with IGI (General Inspectorate for Immigration) for a work authorization.
You may be asked to pre-supply scans of your passport and qualifications; keep them ready.
Once approved, the employer sends you the work authorization (or at least the reference number and copy) for your visa application.

Step 2: Apply for D/AM long-stay work visa in the UAE

Where to apply: Romanian Embassy in Abu Dhabi or Consulate General in Dubai (verify current jurisdiction and appointment procedures). Many applicants start via Romania’s eVisa portal to pre-register and obtain checklists.
Typical documents:
- Valid passport (check 6–12 months validity beyond intended stay)
- Work authorization (IGI approval)
- Employment contract/offer (if applicable at this stage)
- Police Clearance Certificates: UAE and home country (and others if applicable), apostilled/legalized and translated into Romanian if required
- Proof of accommodation or employer’s undertaking
- Proof of means or employer sponsorship (varies)
- Medical insurance covering your stay until you’re enrolled in the Romanian system
- Visa application form and consular fee payment
Processing time: Commonly a few weeks, depending on consulate workload and file completeness.

Step 3: Travel to Romania and apply for residence permit

After visa issuance, travel to Romania and report to your employer.
Residence permit: Apply with IGI within the prescribed timeframe (usually within 30 days of entry or as directed by your employer’s HR/legal team).
Translations: If any PCCs are requested or re-verified, ensure you have notarized Romanian translations ready.

Step 4: Employer onboarding and professional certifications

Tachograph card, medical and psychological checks as required for professional drivers.
Driver CPC (Code 95) training/recognition: As a non-EU driver, you’ll follow your employer’s guidance to meet EU professional competence standards in Romania. Expect training and exams as needed.
ADR (hazardous goods) certification if your route assignments require it.

When might you need to present PCCs again?

Some employers request PCCs during compliance audits or when shifting you to high-security clients.
Renewal of work authorization/visa rarely requires fresh PCCs within the same employer cycle, but rules can change, and certain cases may trigger new checks. Keep at least one recent certified copy in your records.

Best Practices and Tips (Romania-Specific)

Apostille advantage: Both Romania and the UAE are Apostille Convention members, so your UAE PCC with a UAE apostille is generally accepted in Romania. For non-Apostille countries, follow consular legalization.
Use sworn translators: For Romanian-language requirements, use translators authorized in Romania. If translating abroad, confirm that the Romanian consulate accepts the translation and any notarization.
Order multiple originals: When possible, request more than one original PCC and apostille. Some authorities keep originals on file.
Keep names consistent: Your name must match across passport, Emirates ID (if used), PCCs, and work authorization. For countries that include the father’s name or patronymic, ensure consistency or provide affidavits when necessary.
Check validity windows: Aim to apply for your Romanian visa when all PCCs are within 3 months of issue. Extend appointments rather than submit an expiring PCC.
Digital and physical copies: Maintain secure digital backups. Use a document naming system with dates (e.g., UAE-PCC-2025-01-10.pdf).
Translate after apostille: If you translate first and then apostille, you may need to redo steps. Usually apostille/legalize the original, then translate; if the consulate requires, also notarize the translation.
Confirm consulate requirements: The Romanian consulate in the UAE may have slight variations in checklists. Download the most recent checklist before you start.

Common Challenges and Solutions

Challenge: One PCC is older than the consulate’s validity window.
- Solution: Reorder the fastest PCC last (often UAE). Reschedule your visa appointment if necessary to avoid submitting an expired document.
Challenge: Apostille versus consular legalization confusion.
- Solution: Determine whether the issuing country is in the Apostille Convention. If yes, get an apostille. If not, follow the chain: local authentication, foreign ministry attestation, then legalization at the Romanian consulate.
Challenge: Name order/spelling differences across documents.
- Solution: Use your passport spelling consistently. If differences are unavoidable, prepare a notarized affidavit explaining the variance and ask the consulate if they accept it.
Challenge: Ex-resident UAE PCC needing fingerprints.
- Solution: Obtain fingerprint cards from a police station in your current location. Authenticate and legalize the fingerprint card as instructed by Dubai Police. Start early to avoid delays.
Challenge: Translation rejection.
- Solution: Use a sworn translator in Romania or one recommended by the Romanian mission. Ask if notarization of the translation is required.
Challenge: Tight employer onboarding timeline.
- Solution: Share your PCC timeline with HR. Many Romanian carriers will help you schedule IGI and other steps, but they need accurate dates.

Industry Insights: Romania’s Trucking and Logistics Market

Romania is one of Eastern Europe’s fastest-growing logistics hubs. For drivers relocating from Dubai, this means solid opportunities across domestic and international routes.

Why Romania is attractive for professional drivers

EU market access: Even though Romania’s Schengen land borders are still transitioning, companies in Romania regularly operate into Schengen countries, ensuring international exposure and higher-mileage runs.
Strategic location: Romania connects the Black Sea (Port of Constanța) to Central and Western Europe via corridors through Hungary, Bulgaria, and Serbia.
Driver demand: A persistent shortage of qualified C+E drivers keeps demand high, particularly for international (RO–DE, RO–IT, RO–FR) runs.

Major players and hiring trends

Domestic and international carriers with Romanian operations include: Dumagas, International Alexander, Aquila, DSV Solutions Romania, DB Schenker Romania, KLG Europe Romania, and others. Parcel and LTL specialists like FAN Courier or Sameday Courier anchor domestic distribution.
Hiring focus: C+E drivers with clean records, tachograph literacy, and willingness to train for EU Code 95. ADR certification is a plus.

Typical routes and infrastructure

Corridors: Romania–Hungary–Austria–Germany; Romania–Bulgaria–Greece; Romania–Serbia–Italy (via Slovenia/Croatia); Romania–Poland.
Key border points: Nădlac II and Borș II (Hungary), Giurgiu–Ruse (Bulgaria), and Petea (Hungary). Seasonal congestion is common at Nădlac II.
Motorways: A1 (București–Pitești–Sibiu–Deva–Timișoara–Arad), A2 (București–Constanța), A3 (partial segments toward Brașov and Cluj). Expect mixed motorway/national road segments.

Pay, schedules, and conditions

Domestic drivers: Typically lower base compared to international runs; expect competitive national market rates.
International C+E drivers: Total net take-home often boosted by tax-free per diems and trip allowances. Depending on company and routes, many drivers report net monthly totals ranging from approximately €1,600 to €2,800, and higher with consistent Western EU rotations. Amounts vary by employer, seniority, and route mix.
Rotations: 4–6 weeks on EU roads with home breaks, or 2–3 week cycles depending on fleet planning.

Compliance and professional standards

Tachograph rules: EU drivers’ hours compliance is strict—daily and weekly rest, break schedules, and proper use of the tachograph are non-negotiable.
Code 95 (CPC): Mandatory for professional drivers in the EU. Your Romanian employer will guide you through initial qualification/recognition and periodic training.
Road usage fees: Romania uses an electronic vignette (rovinietă) and charges tolls for certain bridges. Your employer typically manages these.

Practical Action Steps: A Dubai-to-Romania PCC and Relocation Timeline

A structured plan keeps your visa file clean and your start date realistic. Here’s a suggested timeline for professional drivers.

8–12 weeks before visa appointment

Confirm employer sponsorship and estimated start date.
Identify all countries where you need PCCs (UAE, home country, other GCC).
Start the slowest PCC processes first (home country, Saudi, Qatar, etc.).
Check apostille vs. legalization requirements for each PCC.
Collect identity documents and plan for fingerprint cards if needed.

6–8 weeks before visa appointment

Apply for the UAE PCC (Dubai Police), especially if you’re an ex-resident needing fingerprints.
Track all PCC statuses and expected issue dates.
Arrange apostilles or legalizations as certificates come in.
Line up sworn Romanian translators.

3–5 weeks before visa appointment

Ensure all PCCs are issued within the last 60–90 days.
Complete apostilles/legalizations.
Translate all PCCs into Romanian if required by the consulate.
Verify the Romanian consulate’s current checklist in the UAE.

2–3 weeks before visa appointment

Review all document names and spellings; correct any mismatches with an affidavit if necessary.
Print multiple certified copies of each document (where applicable).
Confirm your appointment and prepare payment for visa fees.

Post-visa approval and pre-departure

Book flights; coordinate arrival with employer.
Prepare originals and translated copies in a dedicated folder.
Confirm accommodation (temporary or employer-provided) in Romania.

First two weeks in Romania

Attend HR onboarding; submit required documents.
Apply for residence permit at IGI within the required timeframe.
Undergo medical and psychological checks for professional drivers.
Begin Code 95 steps if needed; schedule tachograph card.
Attend winter driving briefing if arriving in cold months; ensure you’re familiar with local road rules and signage.

Cultural and Living Considerations for Drivers Relocating to Romania

A successful relocation is more than documents. Understanding day-to-day life makes your transition smoother.

Weather and driving conditions

Romania has four distinct seasons. Winters can be cold with snow and ice, especially in Transylvania and the mountains; summers are warm to hot.
Winter readiness: Chains where required, careful speed management on national roads, and increased following distance. Employers often provide winter safety briefings.

Language

Romanian is the official language. Many logistics teams speak English, especially in larger companies and on international fleets. Learning basic Romanian helps with fuel stations, service stops, and day-to-day errands.
Useful phrases:
- Bună ziua (Hello)
- Mulțumesc (Thank you)
- Unde este…? (Where is…?)
- Factură (Invoice)
- Documente (Documents)

Cost of living

Generally lower than Western Europe. Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, and Timișoara are pricier than smaller cities.
Typical monthly costs:
- Shared accommodation: Lower cost, often arranged by employers for drivers
- Groceries: Affordable, with widespread discount chains
- Mobile/internet: Competitive telecom packages

Banking and admin

Open a Romanian bank account with your passport and residence paperwork (employer often assists).
Get a local SIM for cheaper data and calls (Orange, Vodafone, Telekom).

Driving specifics

Road vignette (rovinietă) for national roads; tolls on certain bridges.
Strict alcohol and drug driving rules; zero tolerance in professional contexts.
Speed cameras and mobile checks are common—keep compliance tight.

Conclusion: Put Your PCC Plan to Work—and Your Career on the Road

A well-prepared police clearance package is your fast lane to a Romanian work visa and a stable driving career in the EU market. Start early, synchronize issue dates, apostille or legalize documents correctly, and translate as required. With your PCCs in order, your employer can move quickly on permits and onboarding, and you’ll be ready to roll on some of Europe’s most in-demand routes.

Ready to build your Dubai-to-Romania relocation plan? Create your PCC checklist today, lock your timelines, and speak with your prospective Romanian employer or recruiter about target start dates. The sooner your background checks are underway, the faster you’ll be driving toward European opportunities.

FAQs: Working and Living in Romania for Professional Drivers

1) Do I need a UAE Police Clearance if I already have one from my home country?

Yes, if you’ve lived in the UAE, the Romanian consulate typically expects a PCC from the UAE as your country of recent residence, in addition to your home country PCC. If you have lived in other countries for 6+ months in the last few years, expect to provide PCCs from those countries as well.

2) How recent must my PCC be for the Romanian work visa?

Most Romanian consulates accept PCCs issued within the last 3 months; some allow up to 6 months. To be safe, aim for within 90 days of your visa appointment. Always confirm on the current consulate checklist.

3) Do my PCCs need Romanian translation?

Frequently, yes. Even if a PCC is in English, the consulate or IGI may require a Romanian translation by a sworn translator. Check the specific consulate’s instructions and plan for translations after apostille/legalization.

4) Is a Romanian residence permit the same as Schengen free travel?

No. Romania has taken steps toward Schengen integration (including air and sea border changes), but travel rights for third-country nationals depend on prevailing regulations. Do not assume that a Romanian residence permit automatically grants visa-free travel across Schengen states. Verify current travel rules before cross-border trips unrelated to your professional assignments.

5) I worked in Saudi Arabia and Qatar years ago. Do I still need PCCs from there?

If you lived in those countries for 6+ months within the timeframe the consulate considers (often the last 3–5 years), you may be asked for PCCs. If your stay was earlier or shorter, you might not need them—but decisions vary by consulate and file. When in doubt, ask the Romanian consulate directly or through your employer’s immigration advisor.

6) What salary can I expect as a C+E driver in Romania?

Pay varies by company and route. International runs often combine base pay with daily allowances/per diems. Many drivers report net totals roughly between €1,600 and €2,800 per month, sometimes higher with steady Western EU rotations. Domestic-only roles usually pay less. Always confirm the full package (per diems, lodging, rotations, bonuses) with your employer.

7) Can my family join me in Romania?

Family reunification is possible for holders of certain residence permits after meeting eligibility conditions and documentation requirements. Timelines and conditions vary. Your employer’s HR or an immigration advisor can clarify the process and expected processing times for your specific permit type.

By planning your PCCs strategically and aligning them with Romania’s visa requirements, you’ll minimize delays and step confidently into a growing European logistics market. If you’re ready to move, start with your PCC checklist today and coordinate with your Romanian employer for a smooth, fast onboarding.