Barangay Clearance in the Philippines: Requirements and How to Get It
Contents
About This Guide
This guide is based on current procedures and requirements. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to official sources
References & Further Reading
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to official sources:
What is a barangay clearance?
A barangay clearance is a local certification issued by your barangay (village) that confirms your identity and residency and states you have no record of unresolved administrative or criminal complaints in that community. Employers, schools, licensing offices and some government services often request it as part of the documentary requirements.
Who needs a barangay clearance?
- Job applicants (for initial hiring requirements)
- Students enrolling in some schools or scholarship programs
- People applying for business permits or local transactions
- Individuals requiring a community certification for other government procedures Note: requirements vary by LGU (city/municipality). Always check your local barangay or city website.
Checklist - Documents you usually need
- Accomplished barangay application form (available at the barangay hall)
- At least 1–2 valid IDs (government IDs preferred): e.g., UMID, driver's license, passport, SSS/GSIS, voter's ID
- Proof of residency (when required): billing statement, lease contract, barangay ID, or certification of residency
- For minors: Birth certificate (PSA) and parent/guardian ID
- For foreigners: Passport and valid visa / ACR I-Card
- If IDs are lost: Affidavit of loss and secondary IDs or witness verification
- Fee (varies by barangay) - bring exact cash
Use the checklist above before you go to save time.
How to get a barangay clearance - step-by-step
- Prepare your documents and checklist.
- Check your barangay or city website (or call the barangay hall) for special requirements, schedules, or online appointment options.
- Go to the barangay hall. Ask for the barangay clearance application form and fill it out completely.
- Submit the form and present original IDs and copies as requested. Provide proof of residency if asked.
- Wait for processing. Some barangays issue the clearance the same day; others may need a short waiting period for verification.
- Pay the required fee at the cashier (if applicable). Get an official receipt.
- Receive the clearance. Check that your name, purpose and dates are correct. Ask about validity (commonly 6 months, sometimes 1 year).
Most barangays will issue the clearance within a few minutes to a few hours for standard, straightforward requests.
Fees, processing time and validity
- Fees: Vary widely by barangay. Many barangays charge a small fee (PHP 20–100) or none at all. For business-related clearances or multiple copies, fees may be higher.
- Processing time: Often same-day for walk-ins. Bring complete documents to avoid delays.
- Validity: Usually 6 months to 1 year - check the receiving office's requirement (e.g., employer or government agency may require a clearance not older than 3–6 months).
Tips & special cases
- Online or appointment systems: Some city/municipalities now offer online forms or appointment slots - check your LGU website to save waiting time.
- For employment abroad: Some employers ask for a barangay clearance in addition to NBI and police clearances.
- If you moved recently: Bring proof of previous residence and a new proof (lease, billing) so the barangay can confirm residency.
- Lost IDs: Bring secondary IDs and be ready to sign an affidavit of loss.
- For businesses: If applying for a barangay clearance for a business, additional documents (DTI/SEC registration, barangay permit application) may be required.
Quick FAQs
- Can you get a barangay clearance online? Some LGUs support online requests or appointments; most still require in-person ID verification. Check your local government portal.
- How long is it valid? Usually 6 months to 1 year; confirm with whoever requested it.
- Do foreigners need one? Yes - present passport and valid visa or ACR I-Card.
Tip: For barangay-specific forms, fees and schedules visit your city or municipal government website (example pages: https://quezoncity.gov.ph/ or https://www.makati.gov.ph/), or call your barangay hall directly.
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