Is NBI Clearance a Valid ID in the Philippines & Abroad? (2025)
Quick Answer:
NBI Clearance isn’t a primary ID, so it can’t replace IDs like your Passport, PhilSys ID, or Driver’s License. But it’s very useful as a supporting document for jobs, government transactions, visas, and background checks in the Philippines and abroad. Just make sure to show it along with a valid primary ID.
Many Filipinos use their NBI Clearance for employment, government transactions, or travel. However, one common question still comes up is the NBI Clearance a valid ID in the Philippines or abroad?
In this detailed 2025 guide, we’ll explain where the NBI Clearance is officially accepted, when it’s not, and how you can use it correctly both locally and internationally.
What Is an NBI Clearance and Its Main Purpose?
An NBI Clearance is an official certificate issued by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI). It verifies that you have no pending criminal records in the Philippines at the time of issuance.
The document is widely required for employment applications, business permits, travel abroad, and government transactions serving as proof of good moral conduct and clean background.
Is NBI Clearance a Valid ID in the Philippines?
Technically, the NBI Clearance is not considered a primary ID, but it is still accepted as a supporting document in many official transactions.
Commonly accepted for:
- Job applications and HR verification
- Passport and visa applications (as supporting document)
- Background checks for government or private employment
- Loan or business registration
- School or scholarship requirements
While useful, it doesn’t replace official government-issued IDs like the PhilSys National ID, Driver’s License, or UMID/SSS ID.
Why Is NBI Clearance Not a Primary ID?
The NBI Clearance functions primarily as a certificate of good conduct, not a standard identification card.
Unlike a driver’s license or national ID, it doesn’t have built-in security features such as a chip, barcode, or unique card number. It also lacks the permanent visual identifiers used in traditional government IDs.
Simply put it confirms your background, not your identity.
Where in the Philippines Is NBI Clearance Accepted as a Valid ID?
Even though it’s not a primary ID, the NBI Clearance is accepted in many offices and establishments, especially as a secondary or supporting identification.
Accepted by:
- Government agencies (POEA, DOLE, DFA, DSWD, LGUs)
- Private companies for job hiring or background checks
- Educational institutions for student records
- Legal offices for document verification or notary purposes
- Travel agencies and consulates as supporting clearance
In most cases, you’ll need to show another valid ID along with your NBI Clearance to complete your transaction.
Is NBI Clearance Accepted as a Valid ID Abroad?
Outside the Philippines, the NBI Clearance is not a recognized form of identification like a passport or national ID. However, it serves an entirely different but equally important purpose.
It is commonly used as a “Police Clearance Certificate” or proof of no criminal record when applying for:
- Overseas employment
- Work visas or student visas
- Immigration and residency applications
- Foreign background checks
Many embassies and international employers request it to verify that you have no pending cases in the Philippines before granting employment or visa approval.
When NBI Clearance Is NOT Accepted as an ID?
Certain institutions in the Philippines do not accept NBI Clearance as a valid identification document for transactions that require photo-bearing or primary IDs.
Not accepted for:
- Opening bank accounts (as primary ID)
- Driver’s license application
- Voter registration or COMELEC verification
- PhilHealth, SSS, and GSIS enrollment
- Domestic or international airport check-ins
The reason is simple it’s not designed to verify identity but to prove your legal background status.
Can I Use NBI Clearance to Apply for a Passport?
Yes, the NBI Clearance is accepted by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) as a supporting document, not a primary one.
It helps strengthen your application and verify your background, but you’ll still need to present a government-issued ID such as a Driver’s License, PhilSys ID, or UMID during your passport appointment.
Can NBI Clearance Replace a Government ID?
No. The NBI Clearance cannot replace any government-issued ID. It does not serve as proof of identity, age, or citizenship which are the standard requirements for official identification.
However, it complements other documents by confirming your good moral standing and absence of criminal cases.
How Long Is NBI Clearance Valid For?
As of 2025, an NBI Clearance is valid for one (1) year from the date of issuance.
Once it expires, you can no longer use it for employment, travel, or any official purpose you’ll need to apply for a renewal or a new one.
What Are the Best IDs to Present with NBI Clearance?
If you plan to use NBI Clearance as a supporting document, pair it with one of the following primary IDs:
- PhilSys National ID
- Passport
- Driver’s License (LTO)
- UMID / SSS ID
- Postal ID (Updated version)
- PRC License
These IDs establish your identity, while your NBI Clearance verifies your legal record a powerful combination for official or international transactions.
Conclusion
The NBI Clearance may not be a primary ID, but it remains one of the most important documents every Filipino should have. It proves your good record, builds credibility, and complements your other government-issued IDs in both local and international transactions.
When paired with valid IDs like the National ID or Passport, it becomes a strong supporting document especially for employment, travel, and government services.
If you’re applying for jobs, planning to go abroad, or renewing your credentials, having an updated NBI Clearance ensures a smooth and professional process.
FAQ’s
Can I use NBI Clearance to open a bank account?
No. Banks only accept NBI Clearance as a supporting document. You still need a government-issued ID.
Is NBI Clearance accepted by embassies or consulates?
Yes. Most embassies accept it as a certificate of good conduct or police clearance for visa and immigration purposes.
Can I use an expired NBI Clearance for job applications?
No. Expired NBI Clearances are no longer valid. You must renew it before submitting it to employers or agencies.
Does NBI Clearance show proof of citizenship?
No. It only verifies your background and criminal record status, not your citizenship or residency.
Is NBI Clearance accepted as a valid ID for PhilHealth or SSS registration?
Not as a primary ID, but it can be submitted as a supporting document when required.
Can I use NBI Clearance as proof of address?
No. It only verifies your name and record; it doesn’t contain your full address.
Why do employers still request NBI Clearance even if it’s not a valid ID?
Because it confirms your clean record, which is essential for employment screening and trust verification.
Can I get an NBI Clearance in the Philippines while abroad?
Yes, you can apply for an NBI Clearance from abroad through the official NBI online system. After submitting your application and paying the fee, you can choose a local representative or have it mailed to your address in the Philippines.
What counts as a valid ID in the Philippines?
A valid ID in the Philippines is any government-issued identification that proves your identity, such as a passport, driver’s license, SSS or GSIS ID, PhilHealth ID, postal ID, or PRC ID.
