NBI Clearance Needed for Passport Application in the Philippines. Applying for a passport in the Philippines can be a daunting task if you are not familiar with the requirements and application process. One key document that often comes into question is the NBI Clearance. In this article, we will guide you through everything you need to know about whether an NBI Clearance is necessary for a passport application.
What is NBI Clearance?
The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Clearance is a document issued by the Philippine government to certify that an individual is not involved in any criminal activity in the country. This clearance is a crucial document for various applications, both locally and internationally. Locally, it is often required for employment, business transactions, enlistment in the Armed Forces of the Philippines/Philippine National Police, and adoption processes. Internationally, it is necessary for employment, immigration, visa applications, and travel.
The NBI Clearance is distinct from a Police Clearance, which only covers criminal records within a specific region, whereas the NBI Clearance is valid nationwide and has a validity period of one year.
what is NBI Appointment
The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) in the Philippines provides a range of services, including criminal investigations, forensics, and background checks. One of its essential services is issuing clearances for various purposes, such as employment, travel, and other legal requirements. To streamline the process of obtaining these clearances, the NBI has an appointment system or visit NBI Appointment website .
NBI Clearance Needed for Passport Application in the Philippines
Generally, an NBI Clearance is not a core requirement for new passport applications. However, there are specific circumstances where it may be required as a supporting document.
When is NBI Clearance Needed for Passport Application?
Although not part of the core requirements, an NBI Clearance is necessary in the following situations:
1. Late-registered Birth Certificate
If your Birth Certificate was registered less than 10 years ago, you must submit an ID that predates the registration or your current ID along with an NBI Clearance.
2. Cannot Submit Birth Certificate or Report of Birth
- Born after 1950: If you do not have a Birth Certificate, you need to file for late registration before proceeding with your application. Once obtained, you must submit the Birth Certificate along with an NBI Clearance.
- Born on or before 1950: If there is no proof of birth, you need to submit a PSA-authenticated Certificate of No Birth Record and an Affidavit of Two Disinterested Persons attesting to your identity.
3. Voter’s ID
While a Voter’s ID or Voter’s Certificate can be used as proof of identification, it must have a dry seal and be signed by an Election Officer. If you present this as your valid ID, you should also provide an NBI Clearance or Police Clearance. Note that policies concerning Voter’s IDs have been updated, and it is advisable to check with the DFA for the latest regulations.
4. Applying for a Passport with Spouse’s Last Name after Marriage
For married women using their spouse’s last name, a PSA-authenticated Marriage Contract or Report of Marriage is required. If the marriage occurred within six months before the application date, an NBI Clearance will also be needed. However, if you keep your maiden name, no Marriage Contract is necessary.
What is Needed for Passport Application?
The online passport application process in the Philippines is straightforward, but the required documents vary for adult and minor applicants. Here’s a detailed list of what you need:
For Adult Applicants
1. Completed Application Form
The application form must be filled out online to schedule an appointment. After completing the form and paying the fee, you will receive an email confirmation with the application form attached. It’s best to apply three months before your travel date to ensure timely processing.
2. Birth Certificate
A PSA-authenticated Birth Certificate printed on Security Paper is required. Both the original and a photocopy must be submitted. If the certificate is unclear, obtain a copy from the Local Civil Registrar (LCR).
3. Valid ID
Acceptable IDs include:
- Philippine Identification (PhilID) / ePhilID
- Social Security System (SSS) Card
- Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) Card
- Unified Multi-Purpose Identification (UMID) Card
- Land Transportation Office (LTO) Driver’s License
- Professional Regulatory Commission (PRC) ID
- Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) E-Card
- COMELEC Voter’s ID or Voter’s Certificate (main office in Intramuros, Manila)
- Philippine National Police (PNP) Permit to Carry Firearms Outside Residence
- Senior Citizen ID
- Airman License (issued August 2016 onwards)
- Philippine Postal ID (issued November 2016 onwards)
- Seafarer’s Record Book (SRB) or Seafarer’s Identity Document (SID)
- School ID (if applicable)
- ID showing Philippine citizenship issued by the host government (for applicants based overseas)
Ensure the ID is clear and readable. Both the original and a photocopy are needed.
4. Supporting Documents
- Marriage Contract: Required for married women using their spouse’s last name, authenticated by PSA on Security Paper or Report of Marriage.
- NBI Clearance: Necessary for late-registered Birth Certificates.
- Certificate of No Birth Record: For those born on or before 1950, along with an Affidavit of Two Disinterested Persons.
For Minor Applicants
Minor applicants must provide similar documents as adults, with additional requirements:
- Completed Application Form
- Accompanied by a Parent: Both the minor and either parent (or an authorized adult companion) must appear at the DFA office.
- Birth Certificate
- Marriage Certificate: If only one parent accompanies the minor.
- Parent’s Passport or Valid Government ID
- School ID (if applicable)
- Certified True Copy of LCR Birth Certificate: Required for newborns under one year old, authenticated by PSA. If born abroad, a Report of Birth or first endorsement from the Consular Records Division is needed.
Additional specific case requirements may apply, so checking with the DFA is recommended before your application.
How to Make Passport Size Photo Online for Free?
Submitting a compliant passport photo is crucial. You can easily create a passport photo online using AI tools, saving you time and effort.
Steps to Create a Passport Photo:
- Find a Well-lit Area: Ensure good natural lighting and a white background free of shadows.
- Take a Photo Using a Cellphone: Position yourself about 1 meter from the camera and take multiple shots to ensure clarity.
- Use AiPassportPhotos: Upload your best photo to the website, and it will automatically adjust to Philippine passport photo specifications.
- Download the Passport-size Photo: Get the digital version and printout template for free.
Following these steps ensures your passport photo meets the required standards.
Conclusion
Understanding when an NBI Clearance is needed for a passport application can streamline the process and help avoid unnecessary delays. While not always required, it’s crucial in certain situations. Make sure to prepare all necessary documents and stay updated with DFA regulations for a smooth passport application experience.
