Can I Use Police Clearance Instead of NBI Clearance? When it comes to verifying the background of individuals, especially for employment purposes, different types of clearances might be required.
In the Philippines, two common forms of background checks are the Police Clearance and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Clearance. Understanding the differences between these documents is crucial for ensuring that you are using the correct one for your needs.
Can I Use Police Clearance Instead of NBI Clearance?
Both the police clearance and the NBI clearance state the same thing. It informs if criminal cases have been filed against the maid in the locality where it was issued. A police clearance is only valid in a specific area. NBI clearances are not like that.
Understanding Police Clearance
A Police Clearance is a document issued by the local police department. It states whether there have been any criminal cases filed against the individual within that specific locality. Here are some key points about Police Clearance:
- Local Scope: The primary limitation of a Police Clearance is its jurisdiction. It only covers the area where the police department operates, meaning it only shows records within a specific city or municipality.
- Purpose: Typically used for local employment, barangay requirements, or other local transactions.
- Validity: The validity period can vary, but it is generally shorter than an NBI Clearance.
Understanding NBI Clearance
An NBI Clearance, on the other hand, is issued by the National Bureau of Investigation, a national agency. It provides a broader scope of background check, covering the entire Philippines. Here are its key aspects:
- National Scope: Unlike Police Clearance, an NBI Clearance checks for criminal records nationwide. This means it is more comprehensive and can reveal offenses committed anywhere in the country.
- Purpose: Required for various purposes such as employment (both local and abroad), travel abroad, visa applications, and other significant legal or official transactions.
- Validity: NBI Clearances typically have a validity of one year.
Comparing Police Clearance and NBI Clearance
While both clearances serve the purpose of background checks, the choice between them depends on the scope of verification needed. Here’s a comparison:
- Coverage: Police Clearance is limited to a specific locality, while NBI Clearance covers the entire country.
- Use Cases: Police Clearance is often sufficient for local jobs or small-scale verifications. However, for jobs that require extensive background checks, such as in larger companies, or for international purposes, NBI Clearance is necessary.
- Cost and Convenience: Obtaining a Police Clearance can be quicker and cheaper compared to an NBI Clearance, which might require more time and effort to acquire due to its broader scope.
FAQs About Police Clearance and NBI Clearance
Q 1: Can I use police clearance as valid ID?
Ans: New employers usually require job candidates to submit a police clearance. In the Philippines, it is also accepted as a valid ID for some transactions, such as applications for national IDs, NBI clearances, and credit cards. Apr 16, 2024
Q 2: Is NBI a police certificate?
Ans: NBI Clearances are issued by the Philippines’ National Bureau of Investigation. Documents like this prove you are not involved in any criminal activities in the country and can therefore be used for a wide variety of purposes
Conclusion
while a Police Clearance and an NBI Clearance serve similar purposes, they are not entirely interchangeable due to their scope and the extent of the background checks they provide. For most local, less critical applications, a Police Clearance may suffice. However, for comprehensive background checks, especially those that have national or international implications, an NBI Clearance is essential.
