Summary
An affidavit of no criminal record is a self declaration in which a person formally states that they have not been convicted or involved in any criminal case. It is commonly required for passport applications, visa processing, government jobs, educational admissions, employment verification and rental agreements. The affidavit is drafted on non judicial stamp paper, signed by the applicant and notarized or sworn before an oath commissioner.
An affidavit of no criminal record is a sworn legal declaration made by an individual to confirm their clean legal status. This document specifically states that no criminal cases, First Information Reports (FIRs), or judicial convictions exist against the deponent at the time of signing. To be considered a valid legal instrument, the document must be drafted on stamp paper and must be notarized or attested by a competent authority. It is widely used as a supporting verification document across various sectors to prove the deponent’s good conduct.
When Is an Affidavit of No Criminal Record Required?
There are several scenarios where providing an affidavit for non-criminal background becomes a mandatory part of the application or verification process.
- Employment or job verification: Many employers require it during the hiring process to confirm a potential candidate's integrity and a clean background.
- Visa and immigration applications: Consulates often request this sworn statement to ensure that individuals seeking entry into their country have no criminal history.
- Passport or government documentation: Certain government services require a self-declaration of a clean record before issuing official identity or travel documents.
- Rental or lease agreements: Landlords may request this affidavit to ensure the prospective tenant has no history of legal or criminal trouble.
- Educational or professional licensing: Regulatory bodies for doctors, engineers, or teachers often demand this declaration before granting a license to practice.
Documents Required for Affidavit of No Criminal Record
To prepare an affidavit no criminal record declaration, you must have specific identification and supporting paperwork ready for the notary or magistrate. [1]
- Identity proof and address proof with any Valid government-issued documents.
- Passport-size photograph
- Supporting document: A letter or notification from the requesting organization stating the purpose of the affidavit can help draft the appropriate content.
How to Get an Affidavit of No Criminal Record?
The process of obtaining this document involves a few administrative steps to ensure that the declaration is legally binding and officially recognized. Knowing how to get an affidavit of no criminal record can save time during urgent applications. [2]
Step 1: Draft the Affidavit
The first step is to prepare the content, ensuring it includes accurate personal details and a clear legal declaration stating that the applicant has no criminal record.
Step 2: Use Correct Stamp Paper
The draft must be printed on non-judicial stamp paper, typically valued at ₹10 or ₹20, though the exact denomination may vary by state.
Step 3: Visit a Notary Public
The affiant must personally visit a notary public to sign the document, as the signature must be made in the presence of the officer.
Step 4: Get the Affidavit Notarized
The notary public will verify your identity, witness the signature, and then apply their official seal and registration number to the document.
Key Components of an Affidavit of No Criminal Record
A standard no-criminal-record affidavit format must contain specific details to be accepted by government bodies or employers. [3]
- Full name and address of the deponent: The deponent's full legal name and current residential address must be clearly stated at the beginning.
- Date of birth and identification details: These details must match the supporting identity proofs to ensure there is no confusion regarding the person's identity.
- Clear declaration of no criminal record: A specific statement affirming that there are no pending FIRs, investigations, or court convictions against the deponent.
- Purpose of affidavit: A brief mention of why the affidavit is being created, such as for a job application or a visa process.
- Date, place, and signature: The document must indicate when and where it was signed, followed by the deponent’s signature and the notary's seal.
Is Notarization Mandatory for Affidavit of No Criminal Record?
Yes, in most cases, notarization is mandatory to validate the affidavit and confirm that the declaration has been sworn voluntarily before a competent authority. This process involves the duties of a notary public: verifying the signer's identity and ensuring the document is legally enforceable.
AFFIDAVIT FORMAT OF NO CRIMINAL RECORD
AFFIDAVIT
I, [Full Name],
son/daughter/wife of [Father’s/Husband’s Name],
aged [Age] years,
residing at [Full Address],
do hereby solemnly affirm and declare as follows:
- That I am a law-abiding citizen and have never been convicted, arrested, or involved in any criminal case in India or abroad.
- That I do not have any pending criminal proceedings, investigations, or charges against me in any court or police station.
- That I make this affidavit for the purpose of [state purpose – e.g., submission to employer / passport office / visa / educational institution].
- That the statements made in this affidavit are true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief, and nothing material has been concealed.
VERIFICATION
I, [Your Name], do hereby verify that the contents of this affidavit are true and correct and nothing has been concealed.
Verified at [Place] on this [Date].
DEPONENT
(Signature / Thumb Impression)
Name: _____________________
SWORN BEFORE ME
Signed and sworn before me on this [Date] at [Place].
Notary Public / Oath Commissioner
(Signature & Seal)
Affidavit vs Police Clearance Certificate
While both documents serve to prove a clean background, they differ in terms of authority and processing requirements.
| Aspect | Affidavit | Police Clearance Certificate |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | A self-sworn declaration by the individual. | An official report issued by the police department. |
| Issued By | Drafted by the individual and notarized. | Issued by the Police or Passport Office. |
| Legal Strength | High (Personal Liability). | Very High (Government Verified). |
| Processing Time | Usually 1-2 hours. | Can take several days or weeks. |
| Acceptance | Accepted for private jobs and some visas. | Mandatory for immigration and permanent residency. |
Understanding these differences is important, as some authorities may accept an affidavit no criminal record as a temporary measure while the official police check is being processed.
How NoBroker Can Help With Affidavit of No Criminal Record?
NoBroker provides comprehensive assistance in obtaining an affidavit of no criminal record without the hassle of visiting multiple offices. Our platform helps draft legally compliant affidavits, arrange the required stamp paper, and provide quick notarization services through our network of professionals. We offer a smooth experience for e-affidavit requirements, ensuring your document meets all official standards for employment, tenancy, or other verification needs. By using NoBroker, you can verify notary details easily and receive a professionally attested document delivered to your doorstep.
Frequently Asked Question?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an affidavit of no criminal record used for?
It is primarily used for employment background checks, visa applications, passport documentation, and rental agreements to verify that an individual has no criminal history.
Is an affidavit of no criminal record legally valid?
Yes, once it is drafted on stamp paper and properly notarized, it becomes a legally binding document that carries the weight of a sworn statement.
Can an affidavit of no criminal record replace police verification?
In some private sectors, it can, but for immigration or government roles, a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) is usually mandatory in addition to the affidavit.
Who can attest to an affidavit of no criminal record?
A Notary Public, a Commissioner of Oaths, or a Magistrate is an authorized official who can attest and validate this type of legal affidavit.
Does no criminal record affidavit format differ by state?
While the core declaration remains similar, the stamp paper value and the specific wording required by local authorities may vary slightly across Indian states.