Police Clearance Certificate in Philippines | Application Process 2025

Issued by the National Bureau of Investigation, the Philippines Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) is a crucial document acknowledging a clean criminal record in the philippines. Following thorough background investigation to ensure no criminal records or unresolved cases, the Philippine National Police (PNP) issues this certificate.

Police Clearance Certificate

In this blog post, we will provide a detailed overview of the Police Clearance Certificate, including its purpose, requirements, application process, and significance.

What is National Police Clearance?

A police clearance certificate also known as a character certificate. A police clearance certificate (PCC) serves as legal verification that you have no criminal record or convictions. It is granted by the government or police agency of the nation where you are staying before traveling globally for work, immigration, or education.

Documents Required for Police Clearance Certificate

There are two types of documents required for philippines police clearance certificate:

If Applying from within the Philippines

Valid ID:

This includes Passport, Driver’s License, Postal ID, School ID with Registration Form, PhilID (National ID), SSS ID/UMID, TIN ID, National Health Insurance ID, PAG-IBIG ID, Voter’s ID and many others (vary by location).

Proof of Residency:

It include:

  • Utility Bill
  • Rental Agreement
  • Barangay Certificate 

Personal Information:

  • Name 
  • Date of Birth
  • Place of Birth
  • Current Address

If Applying from outside the Philippines

Passport 

It includes personal information, visa stamps (entry/exit) related to the philippines.

Personal Information:

  • Name 
  • Date of Birth
  • Place of Birth
  • Current Address

Proof of Philippine Residency

  • Old passports with Philippine visas
  • Alien registration certificates
  • Other documents showing your previous stay in the Philippines

Purpose of Police Clearance Certificate

Here are few purposes of using police clearance certificate: 

Immigration

A Police Clearance Certificate is commonly required when applying for a visa or residence card in another country. This certificate ensures immigration officials that you have no criminal history that could danger the country. 

Employment

Employers in the Philippines and overseas frequently need police clearance certificates as part of their application process. 

Licensing 

In the Philippines, some licenses and professions, such as security guard and guns licenses, may require a police clearance certificate. This ensures that persons accessing specified areas have clean criminal backgrounds.

Legal Processes

PCC might help you establish your reliability in certain judicial processes.

How to get Police Clearance Certificate

The procedure for acquiring an online police clearance certificate varies by location (country or region). For police clearance certificate online application, here are few steps to follow: 

  • Visit the official PNP Clearance website.
  • If you’re a first time applicant, register for an account.
  • Enter your login details (Username, Password).
  • Complete the application form by providing accurate information.
  • Choose a convenient date and time to schedule an appointment.
  • Follow the on-screen online payment instructions.
  • Visit the chosen police station and bring required documents for biometric capture.

Processing Time for Philippines Police Clearance Certificate

Processing timeframes for Police Clearance Certificate Philippines vary based on the application method and volume. During regular work days, the processing period is usually four weeks, however online applications are faster. 

Processing Fees for Philippines Police Clearance Certificate

The processing fees for a Philippines Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) varies depending on the granting agency and application procedure. However, first-time job applicants may be eligible for a free PCC under Republic Act 11260. 

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, visit the NBI and PNP official websites and look up individual costs and payment alternatives.

Validity of Police Clearance Certificate 

A Police Clearance Certificate is usually valid for six months from the day it was issued. When applying for immigration, remember to provide this validity period.

Renewing or Updating a Police Clearance Certificate

In most cases, the renewal process is the same as the first application. In most circumstances, you will have to repeat the whole procedure. However, renewal conditions might vary over time, so it is best to contact an expert for the most up-to-date information.

Philippines Police Clearance Certificate Issuing Authority

This certificate is issued by: 

  • National Bureau of Investigation (NBI)
  • Identification and Record Division
  • Room 109, NBI Complex
  • Taft Avenue, Manila
  • Philippines

Philippines Embassy Address in Delhi, India

  • Philippines Embassy
  • 50-N Nyaya Marg,
  • Chanakyapuri, New Delhi
  • Delhi 110021
  • India

Philippines PCC Authentication and Usage

To avoid any last-minute complications, thoroughly examine all of the relevant information and confirm that the certificate is signed and stamped by the issuing authorities. Make photocopies of your original PCC for your records before submitting it.

Where to get a Police Clearance Certificate?

A police clearance certificate can be obtained from the granting authorities in each nation, as indicated on the US Department of State website. To examine the crucial details, choose the initial letter of your nation’s name on the left side of the homepage, then select your country and click on the “Police, Court, Prison Records” button.

The State Department gives the name of the issuing authority, current fee, and certificate application processes for each country.

Conclusion

A Philippines National Police Clearance Certificate is a simple process which can be used for employment, immigration, licensing or legal purposes. By understanding the application process, required documents, and important considerations, you can efficiently obtain your PCC.

FAQs

To obtain a Philippines PCC while living abroad, you generally need to contact the nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate in your country. They will provide specific instructions and necessary forms. You might need to submit fingerprints, passport copies, and other required documents.

Alternatively, you can mail your application directly to the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) in the Philippines, but this process can be more time-consuming.

For police clearance certificate online application follow these steps:

  • Visit the PNP official website.
  • Register for an account.
  • Enter your login details.
  • To schedule an appointment, select a convenient date and time.
  • Visit the chosen police station and bring required documents.

The processing fees for the Philippine police clearance certificate depends on the issuing authority. The best way to find the current fee is to go to the NBI or PNP official website.

The validity of a police clearance certificate is typically six months from the date of issuance.