In the Philippines people often need documents to show they have no criminal record. The two main ones are Police Clearance and NBI Clearance. They may have the same sound but their functions and purposes are different which sometimes causes confusion.
To save time it helps to check a table of the key differences. The NBI Clearance was needed for work abroad while the Police Clearance was for local jobs. Knowing the right clearance to get makes the process much easier.
What are NBI vs Police Clearance Philippines?
Both the NBI and Police Clearance are official documents that prove you have no criminal record but both the clearances are used for different purposes.
What Is NBI Clearance?
NBI Clearance is an official document issued by the National Bureau of Investigation that proves if you have a criminal record anywhere in the Philippines not just in one area. Because it is widely accepted this document is often required when you apply for a job plan to travel to another country or for handling important legal matters. You can also get NBI Online Appointment.
Uses of NBI Clearance:
What Is police Clearance?
A local police clearance is an official document that proves your criminal history in the area where you live. It is given by the local police station and it simply shows if you have a criminal record in your own community.
This document is often needed when you apply for a local job or for other basic needs. While you can get it faster than an NBI Clearance. It holds less value and authority compared to the national version. That difference matters especially when you need a clearance for travel or more serious purposes.
Uses of Police Clearance:
Key Differences Between NBI Clearance & Police Clearance
| Feature | NBI Clearance | Police Clearance |
|---|---|---|
| Issued by | National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) | Local PNP Station |
| Scope | Checks records nationwide (courts, criminal cases, derogatory records) | Checks cases recorded within police stations (via National Police Clearance System) |
| Common Use | Visa, overseas work, government jobs, background checks | Local employment, licensing, civil service exams, business permits |
| How to Apply | Online appointment + personal appearance | Usually walk-in (some cities offer online) |
| Requirements | Valid ID, online form, appointment slip | Barangay clearance, valid ID |
| Processing Time | 1–5 days (depending on name hits) | Often same day |
| Validity | 1 year | Usually 6 months |
| Fee | Around ₱130 + small e-payment charge | Around ₱150 + ₱10 service fee |
Requirements for NBI Vs Police Clearance
| Requirement | NBI Clearance | Police Clearance |
| Valid ID | Required (e.g., Passport, Driver’s License, UMID, PhilHealth ID, Voter’s ID) | Required (e.g., Passport, Driver’s License, UMID, PhilHealth ID, Voter’s ID) |
| Barangay Clearance | Not required | Required (issued by barangay where you live) |
| Application Form | Online registration (via NBI website) | On-site application (local police station) |
| Community Tax Certificate (Cedula) | Not required | Often required |
| Fingerprint and Photo | Required | Required |
When Should You Choose NBI Clearance?
An NBI Clearance is the ideal choice when you need more than a local clearance. It is most useful when applying for jobs especially with large companies or even abroad.
It is also required for visa and passport processing for legal proceedings that demand nationwide clearance and for comprehensive background checks in higher education or government positions. These situations show why an NBI Clearance has more weight and authority compared to other clearances.
When Should You Choose Police Clearance?
A police clearance is often sufficient for simpler needs. It works well when you schedule an online appointment for quick processing or when applying for barangay-level or small scale jobs.
It is also accepted for securing local business permits and for verifying records tied to short term or localized requirements. While it may not have the same nationwide reach as an NBI Clearance this option is faster and more practical for everyday use.
NBI Vs Police Clearance — Pros and Cons
NBI Clearance Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Accepted nationwide | Processing delay if there is a “hit” |
| Required for jobs, visas and travel | Slightly higher fee than police clearance |
| Online application Comprehensive check | Must go to NBI office for biometrics |
Police Clearance Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Easier to obtain at local police station. | Limited to local city/municipality |
| Lower cost (₱100–150) | Requires barangay clearance and cedula first |
| Same-day release | Not valid for abroad or nationwide use |
Final Thoughts
In 2025 both NBI Clearance and Police Clearance are useful but they serve different purposes. Police Clearance is good for local needs such as school, small jobs or community requirements. On the other hand NBI Clearance is more complete because it covers records from all over the Philippines and is accepted by more employers, government offices and even for jobs abroad. If you want a clearance that works in most situations choosing NBI Clearance is the better option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the difference between NBI Clearance and Police Clearance?
NBI Clearance checks your records all over the Philippines. While Police Clearance only checks records in your city or town.
2. Which one is NBI OR Police Clearance?
NBI Clearance is accepted more because it shows your record nationwide. Police Clearance is usually for local use only.
3. Can I apply for NBI OR Police Clearance online in 2025?
Yes Both NBI and Police Clearance can be applied for online but you still need to go to the office for fingerprints and photo.
4. How much do they cost?
NBI Clearance costs about ₱130–₱170 while Police Clearance costs about ₱150–₱200.
5. Which one is needed for working abroad?
NBI Clearance is required for jobs outside the Philippines because it covers the whole country.
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