Police Clearance vs NBI Clearance – Which One Do You Need in the Philippines 2025
When you apply for a job or process legal documents in the Philippines you may hear about Police Clearance and NBI Clearance Many people think they are the same but they are not Knowing Police Clearance vs NBI Clearance the difference can save you time and effort.
What is Police Clearance?
Police Clearance is a document from the Philippine National Police or PNP It proves you have no criminal record in the police database It is usually needed for local jobs or simple requirements You can get it online through the PNP Clearance System and claim it at your nearest police station.
You will need Police Clearance when you apply for work in your city get a local government ID or join a school program It is also used for some bank or business applications. Police Clearance vs NBI Clearance.
Read More About Police Clearance
What is NBI Clearance?
NBI Clearance is issued by the National Bureau of Investigation It checks your criminal record nationwide This means it covers not only police records but also court cases and other law violations all over the Philippines.
You will need NBI Clearance for jobs abroad immigration passport application and some government jobs It is a more complete background check than Police Clearance.
Main Differences Between Police Clearance and NBI Clearance
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Issuing Office – Police Clearance comes from the Philippine National Police while NBI Clearance comes from the National Bureau of Investigation
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Coverage – Police Clearance covers only the records in the police database while NBI Clearance checks all criminal and court records nationwide
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Purpose – Police Clearance is often for local jobs or small applications while NBI Clearance is required for jobs abroad or legal processes that need a full background check
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Processing – Both can be applied for online but NBI Clearance is often valid for more types of applications
Which One Should You Get
If you are applying for a local job or need a quick document Police Clearance may be enough It is faster to get and easy to process online If you are planning to work abroad apply for immigration or get a passport you will need NBI Clearance because it covers more records. Police Clearance vs NBI Clearance.
Some companies or agencies may ask for both Police Clearance vs NBI Clearance This is to make sure your record is clean at both local and national levels.
How to Apply for Police Clearance
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Go to the PNP Clearance online portal
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Create an account and fill in your details
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Choose your appointment date and police station
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Pay the fee online or at the payment center
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Go to the police station for a photo and fingerprints capture
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Get your clearance on the same day
How to Apply for NBI Clearance
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Visit the NBI Clearance online portal
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Create an account or log in if you already have one
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Fill out the application form
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Choose an appointment schedule and NBI branch
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Pay the fee online or through payment centers
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Go to the branch for photo and fingerprint capture
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Get your clearance on the same day or as scheduled
- Wait for processing and receive your NBI Clearance
Conclusion
Police Clearance vs NBI Clearance are both important legal documents in the Philippines but they serve different purposes Knowing which one to get will save you time and effort If your need is local go for Police Clearance If your requirement is for international or more serious processes choose NBI Clearance Always check the requirements of the company or agency before applying so you will not waste time.