Police Clearance Certificate Philippines

Philippine police clearance certificates are crucial for Filipinos who wish to apply for jobs, travel abroad, or process other legal matters. In spite of the efficiency of the application process, there can sometimes be errors that cause delays.

The following blog will explain all the common problems you may encounter when obtaining your police clearance certificate, such as mistaken identity, verification delays, etc. We will also provide some helpful tips to ensure a smooth application process and avoid these issues completely.

What is a Police Clearance Certificate?

Police clearance certificates, also known as police character certificates, are official documents issued by the police that verify your criminal history. Generally, it indicates whether you have a criminal record in the country where it was issued.

How to get a Police Clearance Certificate Online

Your location (country or region) determines the process for obtaining a police clearance certificate online. Here are a few points you might find helpful:

Eligibility for a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC)

There are currently no restrictions on who can apply online for a Philippine PCC. The PCC, however, will reflect your criminal record in the Philippines.

Philippine National Police Clearance System (NPCS)

You can visit the official website of PNP Clearance.

Create an Account

Registration is required for new users on the NPCS website. The process involves providing personal information and creating a username and password.

Online Application Process

  • Schedule an Appointment: After registering, log in and schedule an appointment at your preferred police station.

Visit Police Station

You should bring the following to the police station on the date of your appointment:

  • Confirmation of your appointment in print
  • Your online payment reference number
  • A valid passport and a driver’s license are required for verification.

PCC Release

To complete the process, the station will take your photo and fingerprints. At the station, you will receive your physical copy of the PCC once it has been processed.

Purposes of Police Clearance Certificate

Police Clearance Certificates are commonly required for a variety of purposes, such as:

  • Employment:

In the Philippines as well as abroad, many employers require a police clearance certificate during the application process.

  • The immigration process:

A Police Clearance Certificate is often required when applying for a visa or residency card abroad. Assures the immigration authorities that you don’t have a criminal history that may pose a threat to their country.

  • The licensing process:

Police Clearance Certificates may be required for certain professions and licenses in the Philippines, including security guard and firearm licenses. In this way, individuals entering regulated fields are ensured that their criminal records are clean.

  • Legal Matters:

Police clearance certificates can be helpful in establishing your good character in some legal proceedings.

Required Documents for Police Clearance Verification

There are two types of documents required for Philippine police clearance verification: 

  • The following documents are required for the online application:
  • You will need the following documents when you visit the police station.

Online Application

  • The online application process for police clearance certificates does not typically require document uploads.

Police Station Visit

  • Printed Appointment Confirmation: Please bring a copy of your appointment confirmation email.
  • Reference Number : Keep a copy of the reference number you received after paying the clearance fee online.
  • Two Valid IDs: Bring two original and valid government-issued IDs showing your name, photo, and signature. A few examples of accepted IDs are listed below:
    • Getting a passport
    • A valid driver’s license
    • Identification number for the postal service
    • Registration form with school ID
    • The Philippine Identification Number (PhilID)
    • UMID/SSS ID
    • The TIN number
    • The National Health Insurance Identification Number
    • ID card for PAG-IBIG
    • Identification of the voter
    • The full list can be obtained from the local police station, if necessary.

Police Clearance Certificate Processing Time and Fees

Police Clearance Certificate Philippines processing time can vary depending on the application method and workload. The process typically takes four weeks during normal working days, but it can be faster if you apply online. 

Police Clearance Certificate fees are set by the authorities and are subject to change. You can get the most up-to-date fee information by visiting the NBI or PNP website or asking at the station where you apply.

Certificate of Police Clearance Validity

Validity:

In general, a Police Clearance Certificate is valid for six months from the date of issuance. Applying for purposes like immigration should take this validity period into consideration.

For Filipinos Abroad:

You can obtain a Police Clearance Certificate from abroad by contacting Philippine embassies or consulates in your area if you reside outside the Philippines. For specific requirements and procedures, contact them.

Conclusion:

The process of obtaining a Philippine National Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) is straightforward, especially if you apply online. PCCs verify your criminal record in the Philippines for employment, immigration, licensing, or legal purposes. When planning your application, keep the processing time and validity period in mind. You can obtain a PCC if you live abroad by contacting Philippine embassies and consulates.