NBI Clearance vs Police Clearance: Key Differences, Uses, and Which One You Need
When people apply for or request employment, travel, or legal documentation in the Philippines, two major government documents are issued: NBI Clearance and Police Clearance. Both serve as documents proving the absence of any criminal offense. However, they differ in the range of applications, the authority issuing them, processing time, validity, and possible use fields.
This article breaks down the differences to help you figure out which clearance you need.
What Is NBI Clearance?
NBI and Police Clearance have similar procedures; however, there are slight differences in how you obtain them. Here is the stepwise guide for each one: It means the person has no criminal records in the entire country; hence, it is a national clearance.
Primary Purpose of NBI Clearance
- Local and overseas employment
- Visa applications
- Government transactions
- Legal purposes (e.g., name change, court proceedings)
Coverage
It checks records from:
- Local police offices
- National crime databases
- Court proceedings
- Previous NBI records
What Is Police Clearance?
It is a document given by the Philippine National Police (PNP) stating that a person has no criminal records in the city.
Primary Purpose of Police Clearance
- Local job applications
- Business permits
- Barangay-based documentation
- General identity verification
Coverage
It only checks criminal records within the locality, not nationwide.
Requirements for NBI vs. Police Clearance
Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need for each:
| Requirement | NBI Clearance | Police Clearance |
| Valid ID | At least one government-issued ID | At least one government-issued ID |
| Barangay Clearance | Only required if you’re a first-time job seeker | Required for all applicants |
| Application Form | Must be filled out online via the NBI Clearance website | Must be filled out at your local police station |
| Payment Receipt | Required (after online payment) | Required (after paying at the police station) |
| Fingerprint & Photo | Required | Required |
How to Apply for NBI vs. Police Clearance
Applying for either the NBI or Police Clearance is quite simple. However, the procedure would vary quite a bit depending on what clearance you are getting.
Here’s a step-by-step guide for each:
How to Apply for NBI Clearance
Unlike Police Clearance, the NBI Clearance application starts online.
Here’s how it works:
- Register online: Log in to the official website or create an account to complete the online form.
- Set Appointment: Choose a time, date, and NBI branch that’s easiest for you.
- Payment: Pay the clearance fee online or through accredited payment outlets.
- Biometric Capture: Visit your chosen NBI branch for fingerprinting and photo capture on your appointment date.
- Release of Clearance: After processing, your NBI Clearance will be printed and handed to you—some are even released the same day if there are no “hits” (record matches).
How to Apply for Police Clearance
Police Clearance is usually applied for in person at your local police station:
- Obtain a Barangay Clearance: Visit your barangay office to obtain the clearance. It is a common requirement before going to any police station.
- Visit the Police Station: Bring your barangay clearance and at least one valid ID.
- Payment: Pay the applicable fee at the station.
- Biometrics (if required): Some police stations may also take your fingerprint and photo.
- Get Your Clearance: Police Clearance is often issued on the same day, making it quicker for local use.
When to Choose NBI Clearance Over Police Clearance
Choose NBI Clearance if you:
- You are applying for a job abroad
- Need documents for immigration, embassies, or visa applications
- You are involved in any national-level legal transactions
- Need a more comprehensive clearance for business or legal use
NBI Clearance is trusted not only locally but internationally. Most foreign embassies and overseas employers require NBI Clearance over Police Clearance due to its national scope and verification process.
Key Differences Between NBI and Police Clearance
While both NBI and Police Clearances are used to verify that a person has no criminal record, they differ in several ways.
Here’s a quick comparison to help you understand which one you might need:
| Category | NBI Clearance | Police Clearance |
| Issuing Authority | Issued by the National Bureau of Investigation, a centralized government agency. | Issued by your local police station in the city or municipality where you reside. |
| Coverage | Check your criminal record nationwide. It’s more comprehensive and widely accepted. | Only checks for criminal records within your local area. |
| Usage | Often required for job applications (local or overseas), passport and visa processing, or government-related transactions. | Typically used for local employment, minor permits, or barangay-level requirements. |
| Validity Period | 1 year from the date it’s issued. | Usually valid for 6 months, but this can vary by location. |
| Processing Time & Fees | Involves online registration, payment, and an appointment. Takes a bit longer but is systematic. Costs around PHP 130–500. | Can be faster since it’s done locally. However, you may need to get a barangay clearance first. Costs around PHP 100–150. |
When Police Clearance Is Sufficient
Choose Police Clearance if you:
- You’re applying for work within your city or province
- Need supporting documents for local government processes
- You need faster processing without long queues
Police Clearance is ideal for quick verification and basic local transactions. It’s cost-effective, easily accessible, and requires less waiting time.
Validity and Renewal Process
NBI Clearance Validity
- Valid for 6 months to 1 year
- Renewal requires a new application and fee
- Data is stored, so future applications are easier
Police Clearance Validity
- Valid for 6 months
- Renewal depends on your local police station’s guidelines
- Often doesn’t store biometric data for long-term access
How to Apply for NBI Clearance
- Visit the NBI Clearance online website.
- Register and fill out the form with personal details.
- Choose an appointment date and NBI branch.
- Pay the fee via e-payment channels.
- Visit the branch for photo capture, biometrics, and release.
Required Documents
- 1 valid government-issued ID (e.g., UMID, passport, driver’s license)
How to Apply for Police Clearance
- Visit your local police station or the PNP Clearance System (in selected areas).
- Register your details online.
- Schedule an appointment and pay through payment channels.
- Bring two valid IDs and go through biometrics at the police station.
- Receive your clearance after verification.
Required Documents
- 2 valid IDs
- Community Tax Certificate (CTC) in some localities
Cost Comparison
Clearance TypeCost
NBI Clearance ₱130 + e-payment service fee
Police Clearance ₱100 to ₱200 depending on locality
Police Clearance is generally cheaper and easier to acquire. However, for broader applications, NBI Clearance offers better value.
NBI Clearance vs Police Clearance for Employment
If the employer is based:
- If the job is local (within the city), Police Clearance may be acceptable.
- If it’s nationwide or abroad, NBI Clearance is preferred or required.
Employers trust NBI Clearance more because it conducts thorough national background checks. Police Clearance may miss records outside the issuing city.
Pros and Cons: NBI vs. Police Clearance
Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:
NBI Clearance
| Pros | Cons |
| Accepted for a wide range of legal, employment, and government transactions. | Processing may take longer, especially if there are record “hits”. |
| Valid nationwide and sometimes accepted internationally. | Can be more expensive depending on the service location. |
| Ideal for passport, visa applications, and national-level employment. | Must be scheduled online; walk-ins are not allowed. |
Police Clearance
| Pros | Cons |
| Easier and quicker to get for local purposes. | Only valid within your city or municipality. |
| Faster processing—often same-day release. | Not accepted for international travel or many government jobs. |
| Lower cost compared to NBI Clearance. | Requires additional step (Barangay Clearance). |
Can You Use NBI Clearance Instead of Police Clearance?
Yes, in many cases you can. NBI Clearance covers nationwide records, making it a more comprehensive document. That’s why many employers or institutions accept it in place of a Police Clearance.
However, some offices may specifically require Police Clearance for strictly local purposes, like applying for a barangay-level job or getting a local permit.
Tip: Always double-check the requirements of the agency or employer you’re dealing with to avoid delays or repeat visits.
Which One Is Better for OFWs and International Travel?
NBI Clearance is a must for:
- Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs)
- International visa and job applications
- Apostille or Red Ribbon processing
Most embassies do not accept Police Clearance due to its limited scope.
Security Features and QR Verification
- NBI Clearance includes a barcode, QR code, and online verification tools
- Police Clearance includes a QR code, but online verification is only available in cities with digital clearance systems
NBI Clearance offers better security through its centralized verification system.
Conclusion
Both NBI and Police Clearance serve critical purposes in verifying a person’s criminal background. However, they differ in scope, authority, validity, and acceptance. If you’re dealing with anything outside your city or involving national or international agencies, always opt for the NBI Clearance.
If you’re working on local requirements and need speed, Police Clearance can do the job. But remember: if you’re unsure, NBI Clearance is always the safer and more widely accepted option.
