NBI Clearance is an official document issued by the National Bureau of Investigation in the Philippines. It certifies that the holder has no pending criminal case or derogatory record on file within the NBI database.
It is required for employment, travel, business permits, and government transactions. Employers and agencies use it to verify an applicant's clean criminal background, ensuring trust, safety, and legal compliance in both local and overseas applications.
How to Get an NBI Clearance Appointment
Getting an NBI Clearance appointment is now easier through the official online portal. Follow these simple steps to schedule your appointment quickly and hassle-free.
Step 1: Visit the Official NBI Clearance Website Go to the official NBI Clearance portal at nbi.gov.ph or the e-clearance website to begin your registration.
Step 2: Create an Account Click on "Register" and fill in your personal details including your full name, email address, date of birth, and contact number. Verify your email to activate your account.
Step 3: Log In to Your Account After verification, log in using your registered email and password to access the appointment dashboard.
Step 4: Fill Out the Application Form Complete the online application form with accurate personal information such as address, civil status, and purpose of the clearance.
Step 5: Choose Your NBI Branch Select your preferred NBI branch or clearance center near your location where you will personally appear.
Step 6: Select Your Appointment Date and Time Pick an available date and time slot from the calendar. Choose a schedule that is convenient for you.
Step 7: Pay the Clearance Fee Pay the required fee online via GCash, debit/credit card, or other available payment methods. Keep your payment receipt or reference number.
Step 8: Confirm Your Appointment After successful payment, you will receive a confirmation email with your appointment details and a reference number.
Step 9: Visit the NBI Office on Your Scheduled Date Bring the following on your appointment day:
Printed or digital appointment confirmation
Valid government-issued ID
Payment receipt
Step 10: Biometrics and Photo Capture At the NBI office, your photo and fingerprints will be taken for verification and record purposes.
Step 11: Receive Your NBI Clearance Once processing is complete, your NBI Clearance will be released on the same day or as advised by the office.
Here is the complete list of documents and things you need to bring when getting your NBI Clearance:
Valid Government-Issued ID (at least one original)
Printed Appointment Confirmation or digital copy
Payment Receipt or GCash reference number
PSA Birth Certificate (for first-time applicants)
Accomplished Online Application Form
Old NBI Clearance (for renewal applicants)
Marriage Certificate (for married women with name change)
Passport (for OFW or overseas applicants)
School ID or Enrollment Certificate (for students)
Company ID (for employed applicants)
Here is the complete list of documents and things you need to bring when getting your NBI Clearance:
Valid Government-Issued ID (at least one original)
Printed Appointment Confirmation or digital copy
Payment Receipt or GCash reference number
PSA Birth Certificate (for first-time applicants)
Accomplished Online Application Form
Old NBI Clearance (for renewal applicants)
Marriage Certificate (for married women with name change)
Passport (for OFW or overseas applicants)
School ID or Enrollment Certificate (for students)
Company ID (for employed applicants)
NBI Clearance is one of the most important documents in the Philippines. Here are all the key reasons why it is required:
1. Pre-Employment Requirement Most companies and employers in the Philippines require NBI Clearance before hiring an employee. It assures the employer that the applicant has no pending criminal case or derogatory record, making the workplace safer and more trustworthy.
2. Overseas Employment and OFW Applications Filipinos applying to work abroad are required to submit NBI Clearance as part of their POEA or OWWA documentation. Foreign employers and recruitment agencies use it to verify the clean background of applicants.
3. Visa and Immigration Applications Embassies and consulates of foreign countries require NBI Clearance when processing tourist, work, student, or immigrant visas. It proves that the applicant poses no criminal threat to the destination country.
4. Government Transactions and Licensing Many government agencies require NBI Clearance for processing licenses, permits, and official transactions such as:
Business permit applications
Professional license renewals (PRC)
Firearm license applications
Driver's license renewal in some cases
5. Travel and Immigration Purposes For Filipinos immigrating or relocating abroad permanently, NBI Clearance is a mandatory document to prove a clean criminal record in the Philippines.
6. Legal and Court Proceedings NBI Clearance is sometimes required in legal matters such as adoption proceedings, annulment cases, and other court-related transactions.
7. School and Academic Applications Some universities, scholarship programs, and academic institutions require NBI Clearance — especially for graduate school applications, teaching positions, or school staff hiring.
8. Bank and Financial Institution Requirements Certain banks and financial companies require NBI Clearance when hiring employees or processing high-level financial applications, especially roles involving handling of money or confidential records.
9. Proof of Good Moral Character NBI Clearance serves as official proof that a person is of good moral character and has no criminal involvement — which is required in many formal and legal processes.
10. Background Verification Both private and government organizations use NBI Clearance as a background verification tool to protect themselves and the public from individuals with criminal records.
FAQ 1: How long is NBI Clearance valid? NBI Clearance is valid for one year from the date it was issued. After one year, you will need to renew it by going through the online appointment process again.
FAQ 2: How much does NBI Clearance cost? The standard fee for NBI Clearance is approximately ₱130 to ₱155, depending on the payment channel used. Additional convenience fees may apply when paying via GCash, PayMaya, or other online payment methods.
FAQ 3: Can I apply for NBI Clearance online? Yes. You can register, fill out your application form, choose your appointment schedule, and pay the fee online through the official NBI e-clearance portal at nbi.gov.ph. However, you still need to appear personally at the NBI office for biometrics capture and claiming.
FAQ 4: What does "HIT" mean on my NBI Clearance application? A HIT means your name matched another person in the NBI database who has a criminal record or pending case. This does not automatically mean you have a record — it could be a name similarity. Your application will undergo further verification, which may take a few additional days to process.
FAQ 5: How long does it take to receive NBI Clearance? If your application has no hit, your clearance is typically released on the same day of your appointment. If your application has a hit and requires further verification, it may take 5 to 15 working days or longer depending on the case.
FAQ 6: Can I apply for NBI Clearance without a prior appointment? No. Walk-in applications without an online appointment are generally not accepted. You must book an appointment online through the official NBI portal before visiting any NBI branch or clearance center.
FAQ 7: What should I do if I forgot my NBI online account password? Go to the official NBI e-clearance portal and click "Forgot Password" on the login page. Enter your registered email address and follow the instructions sent to your inbox to reset your password.
FAQ 8: Can someone else claim my NBI Clearance on my behalf? In most cases, you must claim it personally. However, some NBI branches allow an authorized representative to claim on your behalf, provided they bring a signed authorization letter, your valid ID, their own valid ID, and the appointment confirmation slip.
FAQ 9: Is NBI Clearance the same as Police Clearance? No. They are two different documents. NBI Clearance is issued by the National Bureau of Investigation and covers your national criminal record across the Philippines. Police Clearance is issued by your local police station and only covers your record within that specific city or municipality. Many employers and agencies require both.
FAQ 10: Can foreigners apply for NBI Clearance in the Philippines? Yes. Foreign nationals residing or working in the Philippines can apply for NBI Clearance. They need to present a valid foreign passport and their Alien Certificate of Registration Identity Card (ACR I-Card) or other valid immigration documents when applying at the NBI office.
NBI Clearance is an essential document every Filipino must secure for employment, travel, visa applications, and various government transactions. Whether you are applying for the first time or renewing an existing clearance, the process is now more convenient through the official online portal. By preparing the required documents, booking your appointment in advance, and paying the fee on time, you can obtain your NBI Clearance quickly and hassle-free. Stay updated with the latest NBI guidelines to ensure a smooth application experience and keep your clearance valid at all times.