Barangay clearance & police clearance for expats
Two of the most common local documents an expat will need: the barangay clearance (proof of residence in your barangay) and the police clearance (NBI or local PNP). Cheap, fast, and required for many applications.
Community-written and moderated by volunteers. Based on real experiences and official sources — offices may interpret rules differently.
Processes may vary by office, city or province. Always confirm with your local agency before traveling.
Summary
Two of the most common local documents an expat will need: the barangay clearance (proof of residence in your barangay) and the police clearance (NBI or local PNP). Cheap, fast, and required for many applications.
Premium Guide
Lifetime access to the full guide
What's included
- Downloadable checklist
- Contacts & official links
- Realistic timeline
- Expats' mistakes & shortcuts
- Updates when rules change
A glimpse
Clearances are cheap and fast, but required constantly — for employment, licenses, visas, and banking. Get familiar with your barangay hall. Barangay clearance This proves you reside in a given barangay. Bring proof of address. It is issued the same day. NBI vs PNP The NBI clearance is national and…
Unlock the full guide for €4.99
One-time payment. No subscription.
Was this guide useful?
Your feedback helps improve the content for the whole community.
Something wrong or outdated?
Help us keep this guide accurate. Report an error or suggest an improvement — moderators will review your contribution.
Edit history
2 revisions · every change is recorded and reversible
- v2CurrentPublishedAug 10, 2026
Added NBI clearance section (EN+ES).
ATby Archipelago TeamEN: Original onlyES: Reviewed translation - v1PublishedOct 1, 2024
Clearance guide for expats needing barangay and police clearance.
ATby Archipelago TeamEN: Original onlyES: Reviewed translation