Is NBI Clearance A Valid Id For Passport 2025?
When applying for a passport in the Philippines, understanding which identification documents are accepted is essential. A frequently asked question is whether an NBI clearance can be used as a valid ID for passport applications. This article will discuss the acceptability of NBI clearance and its role in the passport application process.
Can I Use NBI For Passport?
Yes, it can serve as a valid ID in many cases. But this only applies if you completed all the official requirements for NBI. Skipping any paper may cause rejection. The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) in the Philippines specifies a list of valid identification documents required for passport applications. According to the latest guidelines, the following IDs are acceptable for passport application:
Primary IDs:
- Philippine Identification (PhilID) / ePhilID
- Digital National ID (printed copy must be submitted): Applicants will be required to generate the digital ID via the website: national-id.gov.ph or the eGovPH mobile application during processing for document verification. Have a look at nbi online registration.
Alternative IDs (in lieu of the 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: (Driver’s License cards expiring on 24 April until 31 October 2023 and said expired cards perforated during the renewal process are accepted together with the temporary license in paper format).
- Professional Regulatory Commission (PRC) ID
- Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) E-Card
- Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Voter’s ID or Voter’s Certificate issued from COMELEC 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 Seafarers Identity Document (SID) (*must be issued Feb 2020 onwards) issued by the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA)
- Valid or Latest Passport (For Renewal of Passport)
- School ID (if applicable): For minor applicants, if school ID is not applicable, a Certificate of Enrolment with a photo of the minor and dry seal of the school is required. For adult applicants, a School ID and Certificate of Registration are required.
NBI clearance is widely accepted, but requirements vary depending on the application. To know how to update or extend your document, see the NBI renewal application online guide. It ensures you meet passport criteria smoothly.
Clearance as a Supporting Document
While the NBI clearance is not listed among the primary or alternative IDs required for passport application, it can still serve as a supporting document. The clearance can be used to supplement your application, especially in cases where additional proof of identity or character is needed. Some applicants who no longer need their clearance after passport processing may eventually ask how to manage their records, including the option to delete NBI account from the system.
In conclusion, while the NBI is a valuable document for various legal and employment purposes, it is not considered a primary ID for passport applications in the Philippines. However, it can be used as a supporting document to strengthen your application. To ensure a smooth passport application process, make sure to have all the required primary IDs and any additional supporting documents ready.