Police Clearance vs Business Clearance in the Philippines 2025 Guide Step by Step
When you hear the word clearance in the Philippines it can mean different things. Two of the most common are Police Clearance Vs Business Clearance. Many people get confused about these documents so let us explain them in a simple way Step by Step.
What is a Business Clearance?
A Business Clearance is a Document given by the local government unit or LGU. This shows that your business follows the rules of the city or town. It also means your store or office is safe and allowed in that area. You need this clearance before you can get a Mayor Permit and start your business legally.
Why do you need a Business Clearance
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To open a new business legally
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To renew your business permit each year
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To show customers and workers that your business is safe
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To follow the law and avoid penalties
Requirements for Business Clearance
To get a Business Clearance you usually need the following:
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Filled out application form from LGU
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Barangay Clearance
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Community Tax Certificate or CTC
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Valid ID of the business owner
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Fire safety inspection or sanitation permit in some cases
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Payment of fees
Steps to Apply for Business Clearance
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Visit the local LGU office or Business Permit and Licensing Office
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Get and fill out the application form
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Submit the required documents
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Pay the fees at the cashier
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Wait for the inspection if needed
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Claim your Business Clearance once approved
The process is simple but may take a few days depending on your city or town.
What is a Police Clearance?
A Police Clearance is a Document given by the Philippine National Police or PNP. It shows that a person has no criminal case in the police records. Many companies ask for this when you apply for a job. Some government offices also need it when you get an ID or apply for documents.
Why do you need a Police Clearance
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To apply for local jobs
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To get government IDs and documents
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To prove you have no police record
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Sometimes needed for starting a business
Steps to Apply for Police Clearance Online
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Go to the Police Clearance online portal
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Create an account and fill out the form
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Set your schedule for appointment
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Pay the fee online or through payment partners
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Go to the police station on your schedule
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Submit your ID and have your biometrics taken
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Get your Police Clearance after approval
Main Difference Between Police Clearance VS Business Clearance 2025
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Business Clearance is for companies and shops
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Police Clearance is for people
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Business Clearance checks if your shop follows LGU rules
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Police Clearance checks if you as a person have a clean record
How They are Connected Police Clearance vs Business Clearance
Even if these two clearances are different they can still be linked. When you register a new business the LGU might ask you as the owner to show a Police Clearance.
This proves that the person running the business has no bad record.
Why Both Police Clearance vs Business Clearance are Important
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Business Clearance makes sure your store or office is legal
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Police Clearance makes sure the owner has a good record
Together they show trust and safety for customers workers and the community Police Clearance vs Business Clearance.
Conclusion
Police Clearance VS Business Clearance are not the same. One is for a business and the other is for a person. But both are very important in the Philippines 2025. If you want to start a new business you may need both Police Clearance vs Business Clearance Important Document. They help you follow the law and gain trust from the people around you.
FAQs about Police Clearance vs Business Clearance
What is the main use of Business Clearance
Business Clearance is used to show that your shop or office is legal safe and allowed by the local government
Do I need a Police Clearance to get a Business Clearance
In some cities the LGU may ask you to show a Police Clearance before they give you a Business Clearance
Can I use Police Clearance instead of Business Clearance
No Police Clearance is only for people. Business Clearance is for companies and shops. They are two different documents
How long does it take to get a Business Clearance
The time can change depending on the LGU. In most cases it takes a few working days if you have complete papers
How long does a Police Clearance last
Police Clearance is usually valid for six months. After that you may need to apply again
How much is the fee for Business Clearance
It depends on the city or town and the size of your business. Fees may range from small amounts to a few thousand pesos
Can I apply for Police Clearance online
Yes you can apply online and finish the process at the police station during your scheduled appointment