What You Need to Know About NBI Clearance and Police Clearance
If you’re applying for a job, travelling abroad, processing a visa, or completing a government transaction in the Philippines, you’ll often hear two documents mentioned: Police Clearance and NBI Clearance. They may sound similar, but they serve different purposes, and choosing the wrong one can delay your application.
This guide explains what NBI Clearance is, what Philippine Police Clearance is, how they differ, when you need each, and what to do if your NBI result shows a “hit,” including the role of an Affidavit of Denial NBI.
What Is NBI Clearance?
NBI Clearance is an official document issued by the National Bureau of Investigation that shows whether a person has a criminal or derogatory record based on the NBI’s nationwide database. When people ask, “What is NBI Clearance?”, the simple explanation is that it is the most widely accepted background check document in the Philippines. It is commonly required for employment, government transactions, business permits, and international travel or immigration purposes.
Because of its national scope, many foreign embassies and immigration offices treat NBI Clearance as the official police certificate from the Philippines.
What Is a Philippine Police Clearance?
Philippine Police Clearance, also known as Police Clearance, is issued by the Philippine National Police through the National Police Clearance System. It certifies that an individual has no criminal record based on police databases.Police Clearance is often requested for local employment, local permits, or transactions where a national-level clearance is not strictly required. The process usually involves online registration followed by biometric verification at a police station.
Why These Clearances Matter
Both documents exist to establish trust and identity verification. Employers, government agencies, and institutions use them to ensure applicants do not have unresolved criminal records and to confirm identity details.From an AEO perspective, the most important thing to remember is this: always follow the exact requirement stated by the requesting office. Some organisations accept either clearance, while others clearly specify NBI Clearance or Police Clearance.
NBI Clearance and Police Clearance Difference
Understanding the NBI Clearance and Police Clearance helps you avoid unnecessary delays.
Issuing Authority
Scope and Acceptance
Immigration and Visa Use
For most immigration and visa applications, the required “police certificate” from the Philippines usually refers to NBI Clearance, not Police Clearance.
When Do You Need NBI Clearance vs Police Clearance?
You Need NBI Clearance If You Are:
You Need Police Clearance If You Are:
How to Apply for NBI Clearance
The general process includes:
How to Apply for a Philippine Police Clearance
The usual steps are:
Understanding NBI “HIT” Status
A “hit” occurs when your name or personal details match an existing record in the NBI database. This does not necessarily indicate that you have a criminal case. In many cases, it happens because of name similarity or incomplete records.When this happens, additional verification is required before your clearance can be released.
What Is an Affidavit of Denial NBI?
An Affidavit of Denial NBI is a sworn statement declaring that you are not the same person associated with a criminal or derogatory record found during the verification process.This affidavit is commonly used when an NBI “hit” is caused by a namesake or incorrect identity match. It must be notarised appropriately and submitted as part of the verification process when required.
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Which Clearance Is Better for Jobs?
For local employment, employers may accept either clearance depending on company policy. However, when only one document is requested or when there is uncertainty, NBI Clearance is generally considered the safer option due to its broader acceptance.
Which Clearance Is Required for Immigration?
For immigration, visa processing, and overseas requirements, NBI Clearance is usually the correct document unless the embassy or authority specifically asks for Police Clearance.
Best Practices to Avoid Delays
FAQs
Final Verdict
Both documents are essential, but they are not interchangeable. NBI Clearance is generally more widely accepted, especially for immigration and national requirements, while Police Clearance is suitable for local and employer-specific needs.For best results, guide readers to your internal resources using anchors like NBI Online Appointment, NBI Clearance Online Renewal, and Validity of NBI Clearance to help them complete the process smoothly.
