What Is NBI Clearance?
NBI clearance is an official document from the National Bureau of Investigation in the Philippines. It proves you have no criminal record in the country. Most employers, visa offices, and government agencies require this certificate before they process your application.
The document shows your name, photo, fingerprints, and a statement about your criminal background status.
Why You Need NBI Clearance
You'll need this clearance for several situations:
Employment
- Local job applications require it for background checks
- Companies use it to verify you have no criminal history
- First-time job seekers can get it for free
Travel and Immigration
- Visa applications for working abroad
- Passport processing when you lack primary IDs
- Immigration paperwork for other countries
Government Transactions
- Opening bank accounts without enough IDs
- Business permit applications
- School enrollment for certain programs
NBI Clearance Requirements
Before you start, prepare these documents:
Two Valid Government IDs
The NBI accepts these IDs:
- Passport
- Driver's license
- UMID (SSS or GSIS)
- PhilHealth ID
- Voter's ID
- Postal ID
- PRC license
- School ID with registration card
- Senior citizen or PWD ID
For First-Time Job Seekers
You need one extra document:
- Barangay certificate proving you've never worked before
- The certificate must show you lived at your address for six months
- It stays valid for one year
Other Items
- Active email address
- Working mobile number
- Reference number from online registration
How to Apply for NBI Clearance Online
The NBI now requires online appointments. Walk-ins are not allowed. Follow these steps:
Create Your Account
Visit the NBI Clearance eServices website at clearance.nbi.gov.ph.
Click "Register" if you're a new applicant. Fill in your personal details carefully. Make sure everything matches your government IDs.
Accept the terms of service and click "Sign Up."
Verify Your Account
Check your mobile phone for a one-time password (OTP). You have five minutes to enter this code on the website.
After verification, you'll see the application information page.
Fill Out Your Application
Complete all fields marked with an asterisk. Include your civil status, birthplace, and other personal details.
Review everything before you click "Save Information."
Select Your Valid IDs
Choose which two government IDs you'll bring to the NBI office. Make sure both are current and not expired.
Click "I Agree" to move forward.
Book Your Appointment
Pick an NBI branch near you. Choose an available date shown in blue on the calendar. Select your preferred time slot.
The system shows your appointment details for confirmation.
Pay the Fee
The standard NBI clearance fee is PHP 130. If you use e-payment services like 7-Eleven, GCash, or credit cards, add PHP 25 for the service charge. Your total comes to PHP 155.
Keep your payment receipt. You must show it at the NBI office.
Visit the NBI Branch
Arrive early on your appointment date. Bring these items:
- Two valid government IDs (the ones you selected online)
- Payment receipt
- Reference number
Dress appropriately. Avoid tank tops, sleeveless shirts, or sportswear. Wear smart casual or semi-formal attire.
At the office, you'll present your documents, have your photo taken, give your fingerprints, and wait for processing.
What Is NBI Hit Status?
A "hit" means your name matches someone in the NBI database. This doesn't prove you're a criminal. The system flags similar names for verification.
Why You Get a Hit
Common Names: Popular names like Juan Dela Cruz or Maria Santos often trigger hits. Many people share these names.
Name Similarities: Your first, middle, or last name might match someone with a criminal record. The system can't tell you apart automatically.
Spelling Mistakes: Wrong spelling in old documents causes confusion. Always use consistent spelling across all paperwork.
Pending Cases: If you have an ongoing legal case, the system will flag it.
How to Handle a Hit
Don't panic if you get a hit. Here's what happens next:
Verification Period: The NBI puts your application on hold for 5 to 10 working days. Staff will check if the criminal record belongs to you or someone else.
Return Visit: Come back on the date the NBI staff tells you. Bring the same IDs you used before.
Interview Process: You'll fill out an Affidavit of Denial. This document states you're not the person with the criminal record. A lawyer will help you take an oath.
Final Steps: If the verification clears you, you'll get your certificate immediately. If you have a real pending case, the NBI will tell you what to do next.
NBI Clearance Validity and Renewal
Your NBI clearance expires after one year from the issue date. Plan ahead and renew before it expires.
How to Renew Online
If you have a clearance issued in 2014 or later:
- Go to the NBI website
- Click "NBI Clearance Online Renewal"
- Fill out the verification form
- Follow the payment instructions
- Choose home delivery or branch pickup
Renewals don't require a new appointment or biometrics if your information hasn't changed.
Changes in Personal Information
If you got married or changed your name:
- Update your NBI account first
- Bring your marriage certificate to the office
- Show updated IDs with your new name
- The staff will verify the changes
Fees and Payment Options
Payment Methods
- 7-Eleven stores
- GCash e-wallet
- Credit cards (Visa/Mastercard)
- Bayad Center
- Over-the-counter at NBI office
NBI Clearance for Filipinos Living Abroad
If you're outside the Philippines, you can still get your clearance.
Option 1: Through Philippine Embassy
Visit your nearest Philippine embassy or consulate. Get the NBI Fingerprint Card Form No. 5. Have the consular officer take your fingerprints. Send the form to the NBI Mailed Clearance Section in Manila.
Option 2: Authorize a Representative
Write a Special Power of Attorney. Have it notarized at the embassy. Send it to your representative in the Philippines. They'll process your clearance and send it to you.
Required Documents
- Fingerprint card signed by embassy staff
- Two 2x2 photos with white background
- Passport copy
- Money order for PHP 200
- Authorization letter
The processing takes 5 working days once NBI receives your documents.
Common Problems and Solutions
Tips for a Smooth Application
Apply Early
Don't wait until the last minute. If you have a common name, schedule at least two weeks before your deadline. This gives time for potential hit verification.
Double-Check Everything
Review your information before submitting. One small mistake can delay your application or cause a hit.
Arrive Early
Get to the NBI office 30 minutes before your appointment. Even with scheduled slots, processing takes time.
Bring Extra Copies
Make photocopies of your IDs and receipts. Having extras saves time if staff need additional documents.
Stay Calm During Hits
A hit status is normal for common names. Most people clear verification without problems. Follow the instructions and return on the scheduled date.
NBI Clearance vs Police Clearance
These are different documents. Don't confuse them.
Most employers and visa offices ask specifically for NBI clearance, not police clearance.
Important Reminders
No Embossed Seal Means Invalid: Check your clearance certificate when you receive it. Look for the embossed NBI dry seal at the lower left. Without this seal, the document is not valid.
Add Your Thumbprint: Put your right thumbprint on the space provided. Do this before submitting to your employer or visa office.
- Keep Digital Copies: Scan or photograph your clearance. Store it safely in your email or cloud storage.
- Update Your Address: Tell the NBI if you move. Current contact information helps if they need to reach you.
- Schedule Matters: Make your appointment at least two weeks before you need the clearance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Get Your NBI Clearance?
Start your application today and get your certificate without hassle. The online process is fast, secure, and convenient.
Apply Online NowFinal Thoughts
Getting your NBI clearance is straightforward when you follow the right steps. Register online, book your appointment, pay the fee, and visit the branch with proper documents.
Remember that hit status happens to many people. It's part of the system, not proof of wrongdoing. Stay patient during verification and follow NBI instructions.
Keep track of your clearance expiration date. Renew it online before it expires to avoid delays in your work, travel, or business plans.
The entire process takes just a few hours if you prepare everything ahead of time. Use this guide to navigate the system smoothly and get your clearance without stress.