Police Clearance vs NBI Clearance In Philippines: What’s the Difference?
When applying for a job, traveling abroad, or completing government paperwork in the Philippines, you may be asked to submit a clearance. But here’s the catch—which one do you need? NBI Clearance or Police Clearance? Many Filipinos confuse the two. Although they both check criminal records, they serve different purposes. See the detailed comparison given below to burst your confusion.
What Is Police Clearance?
The Police Clearance is issued by your local police station under the Philippine National Police (PNP). It only verifies if you have a record in that city or municipality.
It does not include information from other cities or the national database. That’s why it’s often seen as less reliable for major transactions.
To apply or get more information checkout: Police Clearance
Uses of Police Clearance:
What Is NBI Clearance?
The NBI Clearance is issued by the National Bureau of Investigation. It shows whether a person has a criminal record anywhere in the entire Philippines.
To apply for clearance, visit: NBI Clearance
The NBI uses a national database to check for crimes or pending cases linked to your name. If there’s a “hit,” they investigate further before releasing the document.
Uses of NBI Clearance:
Key Differences Between NBI Clearance & Police Clearance
| Feature | NBI Clearance | Police Clearance |
|---|---|---|
| Issuing Office | National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) | Local PNP Station |
| Scope | Nationwide check | Local check only |
| Purpose | For official, legal, and overseas requirements | For local or city-level documents |
| How to Apply | Online appointment + personal appearance | Usually walk-in (some cities offer online) |
| Requirements | Valid ID, online form, appointment slip | Barangay clearance, valid ID |
| Processing Time | 1–5 days (depending on name hits) | Often same day |
| Validity | 6 months to 1 year | Usually 6 months |
| Acceptance Level | Widely accepted nationally and internationally | Limited to local or basic transactions |
Which One Should You Get?
Get an NBI Clearance if:
Get a Police Clearance if:
Cost Comparison
Both are affordable, but the NBI Clearance offers more value due to its wide coverage.
Final Thoughts
Both NBI and Police Clearance prove you have no criminal record—but in different ways.
If you’re doing anything official or out-of-town, go for the NBI Clearance. But for quick tasks around your neighborhood, a Police Clearance is enough.
FAQs
Q1: Is Police Clearance enough for a job application?
If it’s a local job, yes. But for government or overseas jobs, you’ll likely need an NBI Clearance.
Q2: Can I use Police Clearance instead of NBI Clearance for travel abroad?
No. Only NBI Clearance is accepted for visa or passport applications.
Q3: Can I apply for both?
Yes, many people get both depending on what they need.
Q4: How long is each clearance valid?
Usually 6 months to 1 year. Always check the requirements of the organization asking for it.
Q5: Is Police Clearance easier to get than NBI Clearance?
Yes. It’s often faster and requires fewer steps—just go to your local PNP station.
