RTC Clearance Online: Requirement & Other Details
With the online application system, getting an RTC (Regional Trial Court) clearance in the Philippines has become even less complicated. Whether for employment, immigration, or legal purposes, it is essential to have an RTC clearance in case of previous court case involvement.
This guide will take you through the RTC clearance online application process, timeline, requirements, and FAQs for maximizing efficiency.
What is an RTC Clearance in the Philippines?
RTC clearance is a certificate issued by the Regional Trial Court to certify whether a person has any pending or decided criminal or civil cases within the court’s jurisdiction.
This document serves as proof of the absence of any legal actions against the applicant in that court; hence, it is very much needed for:
- Overseas employment (for OFWs)
- Immigration applications
- Local job applications
- Legal name change
- Firearm license and permits
Who Needs an RTC Clearance?
You may need an RTC clearance if:
- You’ve been involved in a court case (civil or criminal).
- You’re required to show legal clearance required by government or private-sector employers.
- You’re applying for a visa, and the embassy requests a clearance from local courts.
- You’re under investigation or wish to verify if any legal charges were filed.
Why Getting an RTC Clearance in the Philippines is a Good Idea
Getting an RTC clearance is not something you think about every day, (Regional Trial Court) clearance. But it can do you quite a bit of good.
Here are a couple of instances where it could come in handy:
- For Job Applications, your RTC clearance is part of the employment verification process for many companies. It checks for pending criminal cases, which assures the employer that you have neither a criminal record nor are engaged in criminal cases.
- Opening a Business: Want to start a business? Some government agencies may require an RTC clearance before granting your license. This is their way of ensuring that you are legally in good standing.
- Extra ID: Although considered a secondary identification, an RTC clearance can sometimes add extra value as a secondary form of identification. Other times, it will all come down to helping a lesser-known identity check against some proper document.
RTC Clearance vs NBI Clearance: What’s the Difference?
- NBI Clearance: Covers criminal records from all over the country.
- RTC Clearance: Only verifies cases filed in a Regional Trial Court within a certain area.
If your name gets a “HIT” during an NBI clearance search, you might be required to obtain RTC clearance.
How to Apply for RTC Clearance Online in the Philippines
Although not all courts have complete online processing, many now allow online scheduling and documentation submission.
Here’s the standard procedure to obtain RTC clearance in 2025:
1. Identify the Correct RTC Branch
Locate the RTC branch where the case may have been filed. Use the Philippine eCourt system or the Supreme Court website to identify jurisdictions.
2. Secure a Police or NBI Clearance First
Before going to the RTC, obtain a recent Police Clearance or NBI Clearance. These are often required as Part of your supporting documents.
3. Prepare the Necessary Requirements
Bring both original and photocopies of the following:
- Valid government-issued ID (e.g., Passport, Driver’s License, UMID)
- NBI or Police Clearance
- Affidavit of No Pending Case (if applicable)
- Recent 2×2 photo
- Request letter or purpose of clearance
- Official court fee payment receipt
4. Go to the RTC or Register Online
Some RTC branches support online appointment systems via:
- Judiciary ePayment System (JEPAY)
- Local eCourt portals
- Court email submission (for pre-evaluation of documents)
If online registration is available, fill out the application form, upload scanned copies of your requirements, and choose an appointment date.
5. Pay the RTC Clearance Fee
RTC clearance fees vary by jurisdiction but typically cost:
- Clearance for Local Employment ₱100 – ₱200
- Clearance for Foreign Use ₱200 – ₱300
- Certified True Copy ₱50 – ₱75 per page
Payment can be made via:
- Online banking or e-wallet (GCash, PayMaya)
- Landbank Link.Biz portal
- Over-the-counter in the court’s cashier section
6. Wait for Clearance Processing
Processing may take 3–7 working days, depending on the court’s backlog and verification process. A scanned copy may be emailed for online requests before pickup or delivery.
7. Pick Up or Receive the Clearance
Once ready, you can:
- You may pick it up in person (bring a valid ID and the official receipt).
- Have it delivered via courier (some courts offer LBC, J&T, or Grab Express).
How to Get RTC Clearance Faster
To expedite your application:
- Go early if visiting in person.
- Book your appointment online where available.
- Use official emails or portals for pre-screening documents.
- Prepare all documents in advance, especially the Affidavit of No Case.
Avoid peak months, especially during school graduations and hiring seasons.
Can You Apply for RTC Clearance Without a Case?
Yes. You could be required to obtain RTC clearance for the background check, even if you were never involved in any court case. You will execute an affidavit to the effect of ‘no pending case, and your name will be signed on this, and there will be a signature underneath as a witness.”
What If There’s a Case Filed Against You?
If the RTC finds that there’s a pending or decided case under your name:
- You will not be issued a clearance until the case is resolved.
- You can request a Certification of Case Status instead.
- You may need to settle the case or appeal for its dismissal before clearance can be granted.
Sample Format of an RTC Clearance Request Letter
Below you can see an example of an RTC Clearance Request Letter.
FAQs
List of Regional Trial Courts with Online Capability
Below are major RTC branches that support digital appointment or application processes:
- Manila RTC – eCourt-enabled
- Quezon City RTC – Online appointment via court email
- Cebu City RTC – Judiciary ePayment supported
- Davao City RTC – accepts email-based applications
- Makati RTC – Online form and ePayment support
Visit the Supreme Court of the Philippines – eCourt Portal for updates.
RTC Clearance: Validity and Processing Time
Getting your RTC Clearance is quick and easy—processing takes 20 minutes or less.
Just a heads-up on validity:
- Parañaque RTC validity: 3 months.
- Quezon City RTC:1 month.
Check the validity period for your specific location, as it can vary.
Need Help? Here’s How to Reach Out
If you run into any issues or need assistance with your RTC Clearance, help is just a call or email away:
- JPAS Hotline: +63 2 8552-9644
- Email: [email protected]
Final Thoughts
You may apply for an RTC clearance online in the Philippines, which provides the greatest convenience now with these digital methods. Early preparations for the requirements, preparation of documents online, and preparing thoroughly to ensure the process goes smoothly for work or travel purposes will reduce the chances of delay.
