Chimwemwe Phiri
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has commenced the issuance of a new Local Police Clearance Certificate (ZRP Form 143), distinguished by its yellow colour, as part of efforts to streamline domestic vetting processes.
The move, announced on 2 February 2026, is intended to enhance efficiency for citizens requiring background checks for use specifically within Zimbabwe.
In a press statement, ZRP Commissioner and Chief Staff Officer for Press and Public Relations Paul Nyathi said the new certificate is strictly for local use and will be issued using procedures similar to those applied for international police clearance.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police advises members of the public that it has commenced the issuance of a Local Police Clearance Certificate, ZRP Form 143, which is identifiable by its yellow colour,” Comm Nyathi said.
He explained that while the application process mirrors that of the International Police Clearance Certificate (ZRP Form 143A), applicants will not receive vetted fingerprints.
“This Local Police Clearance Certificate will be issued in the same manner as the International Police Clearance Certificate, ZRP Form 143A. As such, no vetted fingerprints will be released to the fingerprint bearer,” Comm Nyathi said. “The Local Police Clearance Certificate is strictly for use within Zimbabwe.”
According to Nyathi, the introduction of the local clearance certificate is part of broader institutional reforms aimed at improving public service delivery.
“The introduction of the Local Police Clearance Certificate forms part of the Zimbabwe Republic Police’s ongoing efforts to improve service delivery, enhance operational efficiency and respond to the needs of the public in accessing police clearance services for local purposes,” he said.
The ZRP also confirmed that fees for police clearance certificates remain unchanged. A normal application will cost US$5 and be processed within seven days, while an urgent application will cost US$10 and be processed within three days.
Members of the public have been encouraged to seek further information from their nearest police stations regarding the application process and to ensure they apply for the appropriate type of police clearance certificate.
