Police Clearance for Permanent Residency in the Philippines

A police clearance certificate is a key requirement when applying for permanent residency in the Philippines. This document aims to prove that an individual does not have a criminal conviction and is of good moral character in both the Philippines and their home country.

This guide covers who needs a police clearance, the types required, and how to get one.

What Is a Police Clearance?

A police clearance is issued by the police or an authorized government agency in the country or the present country of residence. It states whether a person has a criminal record. It’s commonly needed for visa applications, immigration, or employment purposes.

Why Do You Need a Police Clearance for Permanent Residency?

Police clearance is one of the requirements asked by the Bureau of Immigration (BI), Philippines, for all foreign applicants for permanent resident visas.

This helps confirm the applicant’s good conduct and supports national security efforts. and support national security by preventing potential threats.

Who Needs a Police Clearance?

You need a police clearance for the following:

• Applying for a 13(a), 13(g), or 13(b) permanent resident visa
• Applying for permanent residency through marriage to a Filipino citizen
• Applying through the retirement visa program (SRRV) by the Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA)
• Applicants who stayed abroad for more than six months before applying

What Type of Police Clearance Is Required?

You’ll typically need the following:

1. Police Clearance from your country of origin
   • Issued by the national police or equivalent authority
   • It must also be authenticated by the Philippine Embassy or Consulate in the issuing country
2. Clearance from the Philippine National Police (for applicants who lived in the Philippines for 6+ months)
   • Obtainable at any PNP headquarters or local police station
   • Required if you have lived in the Philippines for over 6 months before applying

Validity of Police Clearance

Police clearance is valid for six months from the date of issuance. Submission of expired clearance may cause delays or even the denial of your application.

Steps to Get a Police Clearance in Your Home Country

Here’s a general process (varies slightly by country):

1. Contact the national police or the official issuing body in your country.
2. Submit required documents:
   • Valid passport
   • Application form
   • Biometrics or fingerprinting (if required)
3. Pay the applicable fees.
4. Once received, have it authenticated by the Philippine Embassy or Consulate in your country, and bring it with you to the Philippines.

How to Get Police Clearance in the Philippines

If required to submit a local police clearance:

1. Visit your local police station or the PNP headquarters.
2. Submit the following:
   • Two valid IDs
   • Recent 2×2 photo
   • Proof of address
3. Pay the fee (usually ₱100–₱200).
4. Wait for processing (often same-day release).
5. If instructed, request an NBI Clearance—especially for longer stays or detailed background checks.

Required Documents for Immigration Application

When submitting your permanent residency application, include:

• Valid passport and visa
• Duly accomplished application form
• Police Clearance(s) (authenticated)
• NBI Clearance (if applicable)
• Marriage certificate (if applying through marriage)
• Medical examination results
• Proof of financial capacity

Where to Submit Your Residency Application

The application must be submitted personally at the Bureau of Immigration in Manila or its authorized regional BI offices. Bring both original documents and photocopies.

Tips for a Smooth Process

• Start early, as police clearances from other countries may take several weeks.
• Confirm requirements with the Philippine Embassy in your country before traveling.
• Make sure your police clearance is in English and valid (not expired).
• Make sure all documents are apostilled or consularized as required. (Apostille or consular authentication).

FAQ

Final Thoughts

Getting a police clearance is essential for your residency application when applying for permanent residency in the Philippines, and it may take calls to your home country’s embassy, having documents authenticated, and staying organized. When done right, it strengthens your application and prevents delays.

Be informed by constantly checking with the Philippine Bureau of Immigration or consulting a licensed immigration attorney regarding your case.