Police Clearance vs NBI Clearance : What’s the Difference?
In the Philippines, you may be required to submit a clearance when applying for a job, traveling abroad, or filling out government paperwork. The catch is, which one do you need? Police clearance or NBI clearance? Filipinos often confuse the two. Despite checking criminal records, they serve different purposes. Below is a detailed comparison that will clear up any confusion you may have
What Is NBI Clearance?
NBI Clearances are issued by the National Bureau of Investigation. In all of the Philippines, it shows whether a person has a criminal record.
Visit the NBI Clearance website to apply for clearance
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The NBI checks a national database to see if your name is associated with any crimes or pending cases. Before releasing a document, they investigate further if there is a “hit.”
Uses of NBI Clearance:
What Is Police Clearance?
Police clearances are issued by local police stations under the Philippine National Police (PNP). This only verifies if you have a record in that city or municipality.
The database does not include information from other cities or the national database. Because of this, major transactions are often viewed as less reliable.
For more information or to apply, checkout: Police Clearance
The following uses of a police clearance can be found:
Key Differences Between NBI Clearance & Police Clearance
| Feature | NBI Clearance | Police Clearance |
|---|---|---|
| Issuing Office | National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) | Local Police (PNP) Station |
| Coverage | Nationwide background check | Local or city-level check only |
| Main Purpose | For official, legal, employment, and overseas requirements | For barangay, local government, or community use |
| Application Process | Online appointment + personal appearance | Usually walk-in (some LGUs offer online processing) |
| Requirements | Valid ID, filled online form, appointment slip | Valid ID, Barangay Clearance |
| Processing Time | 1–5 days (depending on “name hits”) | Often same day |
| Validity | 6 months to 1 year | Usually 6 months |
| Acceptance Level | Accepted nationally and internationally | Limited to local or less formal transactions |
| Payment Method | Secure online payments via GCash, PayMaya, etc. | Usually in-person at local station |
Which One Should You Get?
You can get an NBI clearance if:
- You are applying for a job abroad
- Passports and visas are required
- You are applying to a government or corporate agency
- A national document is what you need
You can get a police clearance if:
- For jobs or IDs within your city, you only need it
- A quick and easy solution is what you need
- You are applying for a barangay permit or a business license
Comparison of costs
- NBI Clearance: ₱130 – ₱170
- Police clearance: $100 – $150 (plus barangay clearance fee if applicable).
Despite both being affordable, the NBI Clearance offers more value due to its wide coverage.
Conclusions
NBI and Police Clearance both prove that you have no criminal record, but in different ways.
- A NBI clearance is a nationwide clearance
- Only local police clearances are accepted
Get the NBI clearance if you’re doing anything official or going out of town. However, a Police Clearance is sufficient for quick tasks around your neighborhood.
FAQs
Do I need a police clearance to apply for a job?
Yes, if it’s a local job. An NBI clearance is likely to be required for government or overseas jobs, however.
Can I travel abroad with a Police Clearance instead of an NBI Clearance?
It’s not. Visas and passports can only be issued with NBI clearance.
Can I apply for both jobs?
Many people get both depending on their needs.
