NBI Clearance Vs Police Clearance: Explained in Detail!
The government of the Philippines has reduced the crime and scam ratios to a great extent. This is only because of its advanced record-checking and clearance certification process.
No matter if Filipinos want to apply for local or international jobs, travel, or do anything else, they are asked to submit a clearance. These clearances include NBI Clearance and Police clearance.
But most Filipinos often get confused about what clearance is needed in different situations. Moreover, what is the NBI clearance vs Police Clearance difference?
So, for international travel, jobs, and other transactions, Filipinos need an NBI certificate. However, for local work a police certificate is enough.
In this guide, you will find the key difference between the two clearance certificates. So keep reading!
What is NBI Clearance?
The NBI Clearance certificate is an official document of proof that this person is not involved in any criminal activities. However, it also shows the past cases or previous records of the person.
The Philippine government agency, the National Bureau of Investigation, issues this certificate after analyzing a person’s data. Without the NBI Clearance, Filipinos cannot apply for a job, travel abroad, apply for a visa, or make transactions.
The NBI departments use both local and national databases to examine a person’s history and issue a certificate. If, during the investigation, “Hit” appears, then the person is asked to provide more verification and documents.
Features of NBI Clearance
Uses of NBI Clearance Certificate
Here are the uses of the NBI certificate:
What is a Police Clearance?
The Police Clearance certificate is provided by the Philippine National Police (PNP). The Filipinos can apply for a Police certificate from their local police station, and they will provide it.
The certificate is issued after checking the person’s criminal record from the local jurisdiction of the city. It is proof that this person has no criminal records in the local area. It is not usable for international use.
Features of Police Clearance
Uses of Police Clearance Certificate
Here are areas where Filipinos can use a police clearance certificate:
Application Process of NBI Clearance and Police Clearance
However, the departments for issuing the two certificates are different, and the uses of NBI and Police certificates are also unique, but the process is almost the same. Let’s have a look at the application process of both certificates:
Application for NBI Clearance Certificate
Follow these steps to apply for the NBI Clearance:
Application for Police Clearance Certificate
Here are the complete steps to apply for a National Police Clearance certificate:
NBI Clearance Vs Police Clearance Differences
Here is a detailed comparison of NBI and National police clearance certificate and process. With this comparison, every Filipino will easily understand the difference between the two certificates.
| Aspect | NBI Clearance | Police Clearance |
| Issuing Agency | National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) | Philippine National Police (PNP) |
| Coverage | Nationwide (centralized record) | Local/municipal level (local police records) |
| Purpose | Employment (local/abroad), visa, firearm license, travel, etc. | Often used for local employment, barangay requirements, ID applications |
| Validity | Typically valid for 6 months to 1 year | Typically valid for 6 months |
| Background Check Scope | Checks nationwide criminal database and court cases | Checks only the local police station’s criminal records |
| Application Process | Online registration and appointment required | Walk-in or local online registration, depending on the LGU |
| Fingerprinting | Digital fingerprinting (biometrics) at NBI centers | Manual or digital fingerprinting at local police stations |
| Cost | Around ₱130 to ₱170 | Around ₱100 to ₱200 (varies per LGU) |
| “Hit” Status | May result in delays if names match suspects nationwide | Less likely to have a “hit” delay due to local-only database |
| Recognition for Overseas Use | Widely recognized for international use (e.g., visa, immigration) | Not generally accepted abroad unless authenticated |
| Central Record Access | Centralized NBI database access | Local record only unless coordinated with national HQ |
| Renewal Options | Renewable online (if no change in info) | Must reapply at issuing police station |
| Authentication (DFA Use) | Can be authenticated by DFA for use abroad | Usually not accepted for DFA authentication without additional verification |
| Required ID | Government-issued ID (strict compliance) | May accept barangay certificate or other local IDs |
| Processing Time | 1–10 working days depending on “hit” status | Same-day release possible if no record or issue |
Fees Comparison of NBI and Police Clearance
The fee structure is different for both clearance processes. A detail of both fees is mentioned below:
Conclusion
For the residents of the Philippines, it is essential to have a clearance certificate. A police certificate is essential for local jobs, and while travelling abroad or for jobs, an NBI certificate is required.
However, there is a huge difference between NBI clearance vs Police clearance. But both of these certificates have their own importance, and it is better to have both.
