When applying for a job, traveling abroad, or submitting documents for government transactions in the Philippines, one of the most common questions people ask is: “Can I use Police Clearance instead of NBI Clearance?” Both documents serve as valid proof that you have no criminal records, but they are not always interchangeable. Understanding the differences, uses, validity, and limitations of Police Clearance and NBI Clearance is essential to avoid delays and problems in your applications.
In this article, we will break down everything you need to know about these two clearances, when one can be used in place of the other, and in what situations both may be required.
What is a Police Clearance?
A Police Clearance is an official document issued by the local police station in the city or municipality where you live. It certifies that, based on the police records in that locality, you do not have any pending criminal cases.
This clearance is often used for local job applications, minor government transactions, and requirements within the community. It is also one of the basic documents often requested by employers as proof of good conduct.
However, the Police Clearance only covers records within the jurisdiction of the local police station. This means that if you lived in another province or committed a crime elsewhere in the Philippines, it will not appear in the clearance issued by your local police.
What is an NBI Clearance?
The NBI Clearance, issued by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), provides a nationwide check of a person’s criminal or derogatory records. Unlike the Police Clearance, the NBI Clearance covers all police stations, courts, and law enforcement agencies across the Philippines.
This clearance is required for a wider range of purposes such as:
- Local and overseas employment
- Passport applications
- Visa applications for travel abroad
- Business permits and government transactions
- Immigration and foreign embassy requirements
Because of its national scope, the NBI Clearance is generally considered more comprehensive and more reliable than the Police Clearance.
Key Differences Between Police Clearance and NBI Clearance
To better understand why they are not always interchangeable, let’s compare them side by side:
| Aspect | Police Clearance | NBI Clearance |
| Issuing Authority | Local Police Station | National Bureau of Investigation |
| Coverage | Local (city or municipality only) | Nationwide (all regions in the Philippines) |
| Scope of Record | Criminal records within local police jurisdiction | Criminal and derogatory records nationwide |
| Purpose | Local job applications, barangay requirements, basic transactions | Employment (local & abroad), passport, visa, government, and business permits |
| Validity | Usually 6 months | Typically 1 year |
| Online Availability | Limited (in selected LGUs only) | Fully available online (NBI Clearance Online System) |
Can You Use Police Clearance Instead of NBI Clearance?
The answer depends on the purpose of your application.
- For Local Employment (within the Philippines):
- Many employers may accept Police Clearance as an initial requirement.
- However, for bigger companies or government jobs, an NBI Clearance is often mandatory since it provides a more comprehensive background check.
- Many employers may accept Police Clearance as an initial requirement.
- For Government Transactions:
- Some agencies may accept Police Clearance for minor requirements (e.g., barangay business permits).
- But for sensitive or legal documents, NBI Clearance is required.
- Some agencies may accept Police Clearance for minor requirements (e.g., barangay business permits).
- For Passport and Visa Applications:
- You cannot use Police Clearance instead of NBI Clearance.
- Embassies and the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) require NBI Clearance as part of immigration and visa processing.
- You cannot use Police Clearance instead of NBI Clearance.
- For Overseas Employment (OFWs):
- NBI Clearance is always required.
- Police Clearance cannot substitute for NBI Clearance when applying abroad.
- NBI Clearance is always required.
In short, Police Clearance can sometimes be used locally as a substitute, but it cannot replace NBI Clearance for national and international transactions.
Why NBI Clearance is Preferred Over Police Clearance
Even if Police Clearance is easier and faster to obtain, employers, agencies, and foreign institutions prefer NBI Clearance because:
- It ensures a nationwide record check.
- It is standardized and centralized.
- It is accepted internationally for work and travel.
- It reduces the risk of incomplete records that may exist with Police Clearance.
For example, if you previously lived in Cebu and had a case filed there but now live in Manila, your Police Clearance in Manila may not show that record. The NBI Clearance, however, will.
When to Get Both NBI Clearance and Police Clearance
There are instances when you may be asked to submit both documents together:
- Applying for sensitive positions (e.g., in banking, security, law enforcement).
- Visa and immigration applications, where some embassies require both clearances.
- Business permits or licenses, depending on the city ordinance.
While this may seem redundant, some institutions require both to ensure that applicants have no pending records both locally and nationally.
Common Misconceptions About Police Clearance and NBI Clearance
- “They are the same document.”
- False. They are issued by different authorities with different coverage.
- False. They are issued by different authorities with different coverage.
- “If I have Police Clearance, I don’t need NBI Clearance.”
- Not true. For many applications, NBI Clearance is still mandatory.
- Not true. For many applications, NBI Clearance is still mandatory.
- “I can use Police Clearance abroad.”
- Incorrect. Police Clearance is not accepted for visas or overseas jobs.
- Incorrect. Police Clearance is not accepted for visas or overseas jobs.
- “Police Clearance is easier so it’s enough.”
- While easier to obtain, it has limited coverage and cannot replace NBI Clearance in most cases.
- While easier to obtain, it has limited coverage and cannot replace NBI Clearance in most cases.
How to Apply for Police Clearance
Applying for a Police Clearance is simple and usually done at your local police station. The steps are:
- Go to your nearest police station with a valid government-issued ID.
- Fill out the Police Clearance application form.
- Pay the clearance fee (usually ₱100–₱150).
- Have your biometrics, photo, and signature taken.
- Wait for the clearance to be released, usually on the same day.
Some LGUs also offer online police clearance systems, but availability varies.
How to Apply for NBI Clearance
The NBI Clearance application process is more structured and centralized. Here’s how you can apply:
- Register Online: Visit the official NBI Clearance Online website.
- Fill Out the Form: Enter your personal details and create an account.
- Set an Appointment: Choose your preferred NBI branch and appointment date.
- Pay the Fee: Payment can be made through online banking, Bayad Centers, or GCash.
- Attend Your Appointment: Bring your reference number and valid IDs.
- Biometrics & Photo: Fingerprints, signature, and ID picture will be captured.
- Release of Clearance: If no “hit” is found, you can claim it on the same day.
Validity of Police Clearance vs NBI Clearance
- Police Clearance: Valid for 6 months.
- NBI Clearance: Valid for 1 year.
Because of this, NBI Clearance is more cost-efficient in the long run.
Final Verdict: Can You Use Police Clearance Instead of NBI Clearance?
The short answer: Only in some cases.
- For local, minor requirements, yes, Police Clearance can be used.
- For government, international, and sensitive applications, no, Police Clearance cannot replace NBI Clearance.
If you are applying for a job, traveling abroad, or securing important documents, it is always best to secure an NBI Clearance. Police Clearance may serve as additional proof of good conduct, but it does not hold the same weight or recognition as NBI Clearance.
FAQs About Police Clearance and NBI Clearance
1. Is Police Clearance accepted for job applications in the Philippines?
Yes, some employers accept Police Clearance, but most still require NBI Clearance for a more reliable background check.
2. Can I use Police Clearance instead of NBI Clearance for a passport?
No. The DFA only accepts NBI Clearance, not Police Clearance.
3. Which is easier to get, Police Clearance or NBI Clearance?
Police Clearance is easier and faster since it is issued at your local police station. NBI Clearance requires an online appointment and has nationwide coverage.
4. How much does NBI Clearance cost?
The current fee is usually ₱130–₱170, depending on the purpose.
5. Can I apply for both NBI and Police Clearance at the same time?
Yes. In fact, some institutions may require both, especially for sensitive positions or visa applications.
6. Which clearance has longer validity?
NBI Clearance is valid for 1 year, while Police Clearance is usually valid for 6 months.
Conclusion
While both Police Clearance and NBI Clearance prove that you have no criminal records, they are not the same and are not always interchangeable. Police Clearance is useful for local purposes, but NBI Clearance is more comprehensive and widely accepted, especially for government, visa, and employment requirements.
If you are in doubt about which clearance to present, always prioritize NBI Clearance since it is recognized nationwide and internationally. Police Clearance may serve as a supporting document, but it cannot replace NBI Clearance in most legal, government, and overseas transactions.