
Germany PCC for Au Pair, Volunteer & Childcare Programs – Indian Applicants’ Guide
Published at: 9/27/2025
If you are an Indian planning to participate in an Au Pair, volunteer, or childcare program in Germany, obtaining a Germany Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) is often mandatory. The PCC verifies your criminal record status, ensuring your good conduct while working closely with children or vulnerable groups.
This guide explains why a PCC is needed, when it applies, step-by-step application process, required documents, processing time, common delays, FAQs, and how Trueway International can help you get it fast and hassle-free.
What is Germany PCC for Au Pair / Volunteer / Childcare Programs?
A Germany PCC is an official certificate issued by the Federal Central Register (Bundeszentralregister / Federal Office of Justice, Germany). It confirms whether you have a criminal record during your stay in Germany.
Purpose for Au Pair and Volunteer Programs:
- Ensures the safety of children and families by confirming your background.
- Required by host families, childcare agencies, and volunteer organizations.
- Mandatory for visa applications in Germany for Au Pair, volunteer, or childcare programs.
- Helps maintain trust and transparency between applicants and host organizations.
When Do Indians Need Germany PCC for Au Pair / Volunteer / Childcare Programs?
Scenario Why PCC is Needed Links
Au Pair Programs Host families require criminal Usually part of visa application or
record verification for safety host family agreement
Volunteer Work Nonprofit organizations request Especially for programs involving
PCC to verify trustworthiness vulnerable communities
Childcare or Agencies or families require Mandatory in Germany before
Babysitting PCC for child safety placement
Programs
Short-term Exchange PCC may be required by local Depends on program duration
Programs authorities or organizations and nature of work
Tip: Check your host program or organization for specific PCC requirements.
How to Apply for Germany PCC
Indian applicants can apply for Germany PCC through:
1. Direct Embassy / Consulate Application
- Fill out the official PCC application form accurately.
- Submit passport, identity documents, and residence proof.
- Embassy forwards your request to Federal Office of Justice, Germany.
- Standard processing: 4–8 weeks.
- Suitable if you have ample time before program start.
2. Using Trueway International (Recommended)
Benefits of applying via Trueway:
- Document preparation guidance to avoid mistakes.
- Handles embassy submission & attestation professionally.
- Express processing for urgent program deadlines.
- Ensures PCC is internationally valid and recognized by host families and organizations.
Documents Checklist
Applicants generally need:
- Valid Indian passport
- Proof of residence in Germany (if applicable)
- Completed PCC application form
- Identity proof (Aadhar, PAN, or other government ID)
- Passport-sized photographs
- Authorization/consent forms if applying via Trueway
Tip: Submit accurate and complete documents to prevent delays or rejection.
Processing Time & Validity
- Standard processing: 4–8 weeks
- Express via Trueway: 2–4 weeks
- Validity: 3–6 months, depending on host family or program requirements
Tip: Submit a recently issued PCC to meet program deadlines and avoid complications.
Common Causes of Delays or Rejections
Even when you submit all documents, delays or rejections can occur due to:
- Incomplete or Incorrect Documents
- Missing passport copies, unclear photos, or unsigned forms may delay approval.
2. Invalid or Expired Documents
- Submitting expired ID or passport may invalidate your PCC application.
3. Application Form Errors
- Mistakes in personal details, passport number, or program name can cause re-submission.
4. Embassy Backlogs
- High volume of applications may extend processing time. Professional agencies like Trueway can track your application proactively.
5. Not Meeting Program-Specific Requirements
- Certain Au Pair or childcare programs may have additional background checks. Missing these may delay participation.
6. Applying Too Late
- Submitting PCC applications close to program start dates increases the risk of delays affecting visa or placement.
Tip: Apply well in advance, double-check all documents, and use Trueway for error-free processing.
FAQs – Germany PCC for Au Pair / Volunteer / Childcare Programs
Q1: Is a PCC mandatory for all Au Pair programs in Germany?
- Most host families require it for child safety and visa compliance, but requirements may vary by program.
Q2: Can I apply for Germany PCC from India?
- Yes, via the German Embassy or a professional agency like Trueway International.
Q3: How long does PCC processing take for volunteer programs?
- Standard: 4–8 weeks, Express via Trueway: 2–4 weeks.
Q4: Are minor offenses included in PCC?
- Yes, all offenses in the Federal Central Register are listed.
Q5: Can Trueway expedite Germany PCC for childcare programs?
- Yes, Trueway offers express services for urgent program deadlines.
Q6: What if my PCC gets delayed?
- Contact the embassy or Trueway for updates. Professional agencies track applications and follow up proactively.
Q7: Can a single PCC be used for multiple programs?
- Yes, as long as it’s within its validity period (3–6 months).
Q8: Is apostille required?
Usually not for Au Pair or volunteer programs unless specifically requested by the organization. Trueway can assist if needed.
How Trueway International Helps
Trueway International makes getting a Germany PCC fast, reliable, and legally valid for Indian applicants:
- Step-by-step guidance on document preparation
- Handles embassy submission & attestation
- Express services for urgent program deadlines
- Provides internationally recognized PCC, accepted by host families and volunteer organizations