Getting an NBI Clearance is a common requirement in the Philippines for employment and may also be requested for travel, visa applications, overseas work, government transactions, licensing, and other legal or administrative purposes.
The process is easier when you know exactly what to prepare before you start. Most applicants begin online through the official NBI Clearance portal, choose a branch and appointment schedule, pay the required fee, then appear at an NBI branch for biometrics and processing.
This guide explains the current NBI Clearance process using information checked against official National Bureau of Investigation sources. It also covers first-time job seekers, applicants abroad, HIT cases, renewal options, office locations, payment methods, and the newer NBI eClearance service available through the eGovPH Super App.
Important: This website is an independent informational guide and is not the official NBI website. For applications, payments, and official updates, use the official NBI website and clearance portal.
NBI Clearance Quick Facts
| Item | Current Information |
| Official NBI website | https://nbi.gov.ph/ |
| Official clearance portal | https://clearance.nbi.gov.ph/ |
| Basic clearance fee | ₱130 |
| E-payment service charge | Usually around ₱25 to ₱30 |
| First-time job seeker fee | Free for qualified applicants under RA 11261 |
| IDs to bring | Two valid government-issued IDs |
| Branch visit | Required for ordinary new applications for photo, fingerprints, and signature |
| No HIT | Can proceed to printing and release |
| With HIT | Requires additional verification and a return on the date given by NBI |
| HIT extra fee | No extra payment is required for the return visit stated in the current NBI guide |
| Online renewal | Available for eligible previous applicants |
| eGovPH eClearance | Available for eligible users from July 6, 2026 |
| Applicants abroad | May use the NBI mailed clearance procedure |
| Official office locator | https://nbi.gov.ph/nbi-clearance-offices/ |
What Is NBI Clearance?
NBI Clearance is a document issued by the National Bureau of Investigation of the Philippines after the applicant’s information is checked through the NBI clearance system.
The NBI uses the application information and biometrics of the applicant as part of its verification process. For ordinary applications, this includes the applicant’s photograph, fingerprints, and electronic signature.
A clearance may be requested by an employer, government office, foreign authority, school, licensing body, or another organization depending on the purpose of the transaction.
The exact requirement depends on the organization asking for the document. Having an NBI Clearance does not automatically mean that every employer, visa application, or government transaction requires one.
Why Is NBI Clearance Important?
NBI Clearance is widely used as a background verification document in the Philippines. Its importance depends on the purpose for which an organization requests it.
Employment Purposes
Employers may ask applicants to submit NBI Clearance as part of pre-employment requirements. This can happen in both private and public sector hiring.
If you are applying for your first job, you may qualify for free NBI Clearance under the First Time Jobseekers Assistance Act, Republic Act No. 11261.
Travel, Visa, and Immigration Purposes
Some foreign governments, embassies, immigration authorities, employers abroad, or other institutions may request NBI Clearance as part of their documentary requirements.
Requirements differ by country and visa category. Before applying, check the current instructions of the embassy, consulate, immigration authority, or receiving institution.
Government and Legal Transactions
An NBI Clearance may also be requested in certain government, licensing, business, or legal processes.
Do not assume it is required for every government transaction. Always check the specific requirements of the agency handling your case.
NBI Clearance Requirements
The current NBI Citizen’s Charter lists two valid identification cards issued by the government as requirements for NBI Clearance processing.
The NBI’s current application guide also instructs applicants to bring their reference number or QR code, proof of payment, and original valid IDs to the branch.
Prepare the following before your appointment:
- Your NBI reference number or QR code
- Proof of payment or receipt
- Two valid government-issued IDs
- Additional documents if you are applying under a special category, such as a first-time job seeker
Your IDs should be original and not expired.
Valid IDs for NBI Clearance
The current NBI application guide gives examples of IDs and government documents applicants may present, including:
- Philippine Passport
- Driver’s License
- National ID
- UMID
- Postal ID
- PSA Birth Certificate
Because accepted documents and portal options can change, check the current instructions displayed by the official NBI portal before your branch visit.
Important ID Tips
Use the same legal name and personal details that appear on your IDs.
Check the spelling of your first name, middle name, surname, suffix, date of birth, and other details before saving your NBI profile.
Do not rely on an expired ID.
If the official portal asks you to identify the government ID you plan to bring, make sure you have that document available on the day of your visit.
How to Apply for NBI Clearance Online
For most applicants, the process begins online.
Step 1: Go to the Official NBI Clearance Portal
Visit:https://clearance.nbi.gov.ph/
You may also begin from the official NBI website at:
Avoid websites or social media accounts that ask you to send clearance payments to personal accounts.
Step 2: Register or Log In
New applicants need to register.
Use an active mobile number and email address because the NBI registration process uses a One-Time Password, or OTP, for verification.
If you already have an account, log in using your existing credentials.
Step 3: Verify Your Registration Using OTP
Enter the OTP provided during registration to verify your account.
If the OTP process is not working, avoid repeatedly creating new accounts with different personal information. First confirm that your mobile number and email details are correct and retry through the official portal.
Step 4: Complete Your Applicant Profile
After logging in, complete the Applicant Information Form.
The NBI says mandatory profile information includes personal details, family background, and education or employment information.
Check everything carefully before saving.
A spelling mistake in your name, incorrect birth date, or other wrong personal information can create problems later in the process.
Step 5: Click Apply for Clearance
Once your profile is complete, select Apply for Clearance.
The portal will ask you to indicate the valid government ID you plan to bring.
Step 6: Choose Your NBI Branch
Select the NBI Clearance Center that is most convenient for you.
NBI Clearance offices operate in Metro Manila and throughout the Philippines.
Do not assume every branch follows the same opening and closing time. Official hours vary by location.
For example, the official NBI office list currently shows:
| NBI Clearance Office | Official Hours |
| NBI Clearance Center, U.N. Avenue | 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM |
| Quezon City Hall | 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM |
| Montalban, Rizal | 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM |
| Las Piñas City | 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM |
| Robinson’s Otis | 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM |
| Robinson’s Galleria | 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM |
| Baguio City | 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM |
| Dagupan City | 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM |
| Lipa City Hall | 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM |
| Robinson’s Dasmariñas | 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM |
| Lucena City | 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM |
| Iloilo City | 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM |
Check the official NBI office locator before traveling:
Step 7: Choose Your Appointment Date and Session
Select an available date and either the AM or PM session shown by the portal.
Available schedules depend on the branch.
The safest approach is to rely on the current availability displayed in your NBI account rather than unofficial claims about what day or hour new slots are released.
Step 8: Pay the NBI Clearance Fee
The current NBI application guide lists a basic clearance fee of ₱130.
An additional e-payment service charge usually costs around ₱25 to ₱30, according to the NBI.
The final amount may therefore vary slightly depending on the payment channel and service charge.
Step 9: Save Your Reference Number
After selecting a payment method, the NBI system generates a reference number.
Save it immediately.
You can:
- Take a screenshot
- Copy it into your notes
- Print it
- Keep the payment receipt with it
Your reference number is important for payment and branch processing.
Step 10: Wait for the Transaction to Show as Paid
Check your transaction status in the portal.
Once it is marked PAID, prepare for your visit.
The current NBI guide also states that recent system updates provide a 15-day grace period for transactions marked PAID. This means a missed target date does not necessarily mean the payment is immediately lost.
Always check your current transaction status in the portal before making another payment.
NBI Clearance Fee in 2026
The current official NBI guide lists:
- Basic NBI Clearance fee: ₱130
- E-payment service charge: usually around ₱25 to ₱30
This is why applicants often see a total around ₱155 to ₱160.
Do not treat ₱155 as a guaranteed fixed total for every payment channel. The NBI describes the e-payment component as a service charge that is usually around ₱25 to ₱30.
Does a HIT Cost More?
No additional payment is stated for the HIT return visit in the current NBI guide.
If your application receives a HIT, NBI may ask you to return on a specified date after verification. The official guide says you can return to claim the clearance on that date without paying extra.
Be careful with websites claiming that the fee automatically increases to ₱200 because of a HIT.
NBI Clearance Payment Methods
The current NBI guide lists the following payment options:
- GCash
- Maya
- 7-Eleven
- Bayad Center
- Online banking
Available methods shown in the portal may change, so use the payment options currently displayed in your official NBI transaction.
Paying Through GCash
If GCash appears as an available payment option in the NBI portal:
- Start the transaction through the official NBI clearance portal.
- Save the NBI reference number.
- Follow the payment instructions shown for GCash.
- Confirm the amount before paying.
- Save your GCash payment receipt or screenshot.
- Return to the NBI portal and check whether the transaction status has changed to PAID.
Do not send money to a random personal GCash number claiming to book an NBI appointment.
What to Bring to Your NBI Appointment
Before leaving home, prepare:
- Your reference number or QR code
- Your proof of payment or receipt
- Two valid government-issued IDs
- Any special supporting document required for your applicant category
First-time job seekers should also prepare the documents required under the FTJS process.
Pro Tip
Keep both a digital and offline copy of your reference number.
A screenshot is useful if mobile data is weak inside the branch.
What Happens at the NBI Branch?
For ordinary clearance applications, the online process is only the first part.
You still need to complete in-person processing.
1. Present Your Reference Information
Follow the instructions at the branch and present the required transaction and identity documents.
2. Biometrics Capture
The NBI captures:
- Photograph
- Fingerprints
- Electronic signature
These are part of the official clearance processing procedure.
3. Verify Your Personal Information
Review your personal data carefully when instructed.
If something is wrong, tell the NBI personnel before the clearance is printed.
4. Record Verification
The NBI checks applicant information against its criminal database and clearance records.
The result may be processed as No HIT or With HIT.
What Is an NBI HIT?
A HIT means the NBI system requires further verification before the clearance can be released.
The current NBI guide explains that a HIT can occur when an applicant has a similar or identical name to a person connected to a pending case or record.
A HIT should not automatically be interpreted as proof that the applicant has a criminal record.
It means the application needs additional checking.
What Happens If You Have a HIT?
NBI staff will give you a date to return.
The current NBI guide says the additional review usually takes 5 to 10 working days.
That is an estimated range, not a guaranteed release date.
For some cases, the official Citizen’s Charter also refers to Quality Control, where an applicant may be interviewed and records may be verified further.
Do You Pay Again After a HIT?
The current NBI guide says no extra payment is required when you return on the date given to claim the clearance.
What Does No HIT Mean?
If your application has No HIT, the official NBI workflow allows the process to move to printing and release.
In a straightforward case, this can happen during the same branch visit after biometrics and verification.
Actual waiting time depends on branch operations and queue conditions.
NBI Clearance Dress Code
The current NBI application guide advises applicants to avoid:
- Sandos
- Tank tops
- Shorts
- Slippers
A neat, simple outfit is a safe choice because the NBI will take your official clearance photograph during processing.
Avoid accessories or clothing that could interfere with a clear facial photograph.
Can You Walk In for NBI Clearance?
This topic needs careful wording because unofficial guides often make absolute claims.
The current NBI online guide is built around online registration, payment, scheduling, and branch processing.
However, the NBI Citizen’s Charter also contains a Walk In Applicants procedure, and the official First Time Job Seeker Citizen’s Charter specifically includes a process for applicants without online application and/or walk-in applicants.
For that reason, it is not accurate to say that every NBI office nationwide always rejects every walk-in applicant.
For regular applicants, the safest approach is still to complete the online process first and follow the instructions for your selected branch.
What If You Miss Your NBI Appointment?
Do not immediately create another transaction and pay again.
The current NBI application guide says that transactions marked PAID have a 15-day grace period under recent system updates.
Check your transaction status and instructions in the official portal.
This is more reliable than older guides claiming that missing the exact date automatically cancels the application and permanently forfeits your payment.
Can You Reschedule an NBI Appointment?
The exact controls available to change a booking can depend on the current NBI portal.
Do not rely on unofficial instructions claiming that every account has a specific Reschedule Appointment or Cancel Appointment button.
If you need to change your visit, first log in to your NBI account and review the active transaction.
If the portal does not provide the option you need, contact NBI Clearance support using the official contact details listed later in this guide.
First-Time Job Seeker NBI Clearance
Qualified first-time job seekers can obtain NBI Clearance free of charge under Republic Act No. 11261, the First Time Jobseekers Assistance Act.
The law waives government fees and charges for certain documents required for first-time employment applications.
NBI Clearance is specifically included among the covered documents.
First-Time Job Seeker Requirements
The official NBI Citizen’s Charter lists:
- Barangay Certification on official barangay letterhead, dry sealed, and signed by the Punong Barangay or authorized barangay officer
- Two valid government-issued IDs or acceptable certificates
The NBI’s current general application guide also tells first-time job seekers to bring the original Barangay Certificate and signed Oath of Undertaking.
FTJS Online Process
Qualified applicants can register using the FTJS portal, then proceed to the First Time Job Seeker lane for biometrics.
The NBI captures the applicant’s photograph, fingerprints, and signature.
If the result is No HIT, the application can proceed to printing.
If it has a HIT, the applicant returns on the scheduled date.
Can a First-Time Job Seeker Walk In?
Yes, the official NBI Citizen’s Charter includes a specific procedure for first-time job seekers without an online application or for walk-in applicants.
The applicant may proceed to an NBI online registration counter. The Charter also notes that free NBI Wi-Fi may be used for registration through the FTJS facility.
This is an important exception to broad claims that all walk-ins are prohibited nationwide.
NBI Clearance Renewal
The NBI currently provides online renewal options for eligible applicants.
The official NBI application guide states that if you had an NBI Clearance issued after 2014 and your personal details have not changed, you may be able to use the online renewal option and receive the clearance through courier delivery without going to a branch.
Eligibility is important.
If your information has changed or the system does not recognize your previous clearance, follow the current instructions shown by the NBI portal.
NBI eClearance Through the eGovPH Super App
On July 6, 2026, the NBI and Department of Information and Communications Technology formally launched NBI eClearance through the eGovPH Super App.
According to the NBI, eligible users can use the app for a faster digital renewal process, and eligible renewals may take as little as five minutes.
This is one of the most important recent changes to the NBI Clearance system.
Because eligibility and app features can change, use the latest version of the eGovPH app and follow the instructions shown inside the service.
Do Not Use Old Fixed Renewal Fees Without Checking
Some unofficial websites publish specific renewal totals such as ₱355, or fixed courier charges.
The current official NBI sources reviewed for this guide do not support treating those figures as universal current renewal charges.
Check the live NBI portal or eGovPH service for the amount displayed for your transaction before paying.
Renewal vs New Application
| Situation | Best Starting Point |
| First NBI Clearance | New application through the official portal |
| Previous clearance and eligible for online renewal | Check NBI online renewal |
| Eligible eGovPH user | Check NBI eClearance in eGovPH |
| Previous clearance issued before 2014 for mailed overseas renewal | NBI treats it as a new application |
| First-time job seeker | Use the FTJS process and check eligibility under RA 11261 |
| Personal information changed | Follow the current NBI instructions, which may require additional processing |
NBI Clearance for Applicants Abroad
Filipinos and other applicants outside the Philippines can use the official NBI Mailed Clearance procedure.
New Applicant Abroad
The official NBI procedure instructs new applicants abroad to obtain NBI Clearance Application Form No. 5 from a Philippine Embassy or Consular Office.
The form should bear the seal of the Philippine Consulate.
A representative in the Philippines may also obtain the form from the NBI Mailed Clearance Section with the required authorization documents.
Fingerprinting Requirements
Applicants abroad must complete rolled fingerprint impressions.
The fingerprinting may be done at:
- A Philippine Embassy
- A Philippine Consular Office
- The nearest police station, where accepted under the NBI procedure
The person taking the fingerprints must identify themselves, sign the form, state their official designation, and place the office seal as required.
Photo and Passport Requirements
The NBI requires applicants abroad to attach:
- A 2 x 2 photograph with white background taken within three months before application
- A photocopy of the biodata page of a valid passport
This 2 x 2 photo requirement applies to the official overseas procedure. It should not be confused with ordinary local branch processing, where the applicant’s photo is captured by NBI.
Mailed Clearance Fee
For a mailed application from abroad, the NBI currently states a total of ₱200, consisting of:
- ₱130 clearance fee
- ₱70 mailing cost
The NBI page says the Philippine currency amount or its US dollar equivalent may be enclosed for the mailed procedure.
Processing Time for Applicants Abroad
The official NBI mailed clearance page says processing takes a maximum of five working days upon receipt of complete documents.
International mailing time is separate from NBI’s processing time.
Do not confuse postal transit with the agency’s stated processing period.
Renewal From Abroad
The NBI says clearance certificates issued starting in 2014 may be renewed through mail or through a designated representative using the mailed clearance procedure.
A clearance issued before 2014 is treated as a new application under this procedure.
Where Overseas Applications Are Processed
The NBI states that clearance applications coming from abroad are processed only at the NBI Clearance Building at United Nations Avenue, Ermita, Manila.
NBI Clearance for Apostille and Foreign Use
If your NBI Clearance will be used abroad, the receiving country or institution may ask for an Apostille or another form of authentication.
Apostille is handled by the Department of Foreign Affairs, not by NBI.
The DFA’s current Apostille requirements state that an NBI Clearance submitted for Apostille must be:
- The original document issued by NBI
- With the NBI dry seal
- Verifiable online
The DFA also states that a personal copy is not accepted for this purpose.
Updated NBI Clearance Apostille Process
The DFA announced a revised system for Apostillization of NBI Clearance that took effect on April 14, 2025.
Under the updated process, applicants upload a copy of the NBI Clearance through the dedicated DFA system before proceeding to claim the apostillized document on the scheduled date.
Always check the current DFA Apostille instructions before submitting because appointment procedures and fees are controlled by DFA, not NBI.
NBI Clearance for Employment Abroad
If an overseas employer or foreign authority requests NBI Clearance, confirm three things before applying:
- Whether a newly issued NBI Clearance is required
- Whether the document must be apostilled
- Whether there are additional embassy, visa, or employer requirements
NBI provides the clearance. The foreign authority decides what supporting documents and document age it will accept.
NBI Clearance Validity
Many private guides state a fixed validity period for NBI Clearance.
For this guide, we are not presenting a universal validity period as an NBI-confirmed fact because the current official NBI pages reviewed here do not publish one single general validity statement for every use.
More importantly, an employer, embassy, immigration office, licensing body, or other receiving institution may impose its own recency requirement.
If your clearance is being submitted for an important application, confirm how recent the receiving organization requires it to be.
NBI Clearance vs National Police Clearance
NBI Clearance and National Police Clearance are separate government documents issued through different agencies and systems.
NBI Clearance is issued by the National Bureau of Investigation.
National Police Clearance is issued through the Philippine National Police National Police Clearance System.
The PNP describes National Police Clearance as a nationwide system used to check criminal and derogatory records in the Philippines.
Do not assume one document automatically replaces the other.
If an employer, government office, or other organization specifically asks for NBI Clearance, submit NBI Clearance unless the organization confirms an alternative is acceptable.
Common NBI Clearance Problems and Solutions
NBI Website Is Not Working
Online government systems can occasionally experience maintenance or technical interruptions.
For example, NBI publicly announced a temporary disruption of its official website and Online Clearance Application Portal on April 12, 2026 during an internet service provider transition.
If the portal is not loading:
- Confirm you are using the official URL.
- Try again later.
- Check the official NBI website for announcements.
- Avoid entering personal information into a lookalike website.
- Contact the nearest NBI office if the issue is urgent.
OTP Not Received
If your OTP does not arrive:
- Recheck the mobile number and email used during registration.
- Wait for the current request to complete before repeatedly requesting new OTPs.
- Use the resend option if shown by the official portal.
- Check spam or junk folders for email messages.
- Contact NBI if the problem continues.
The NBI confirms that OTP is used for registration verification, but it does not publish a universal promise that every OTP will arrive within a specific number of minutes.
Payment Is Not Reflecting
Keep your payment receipt and reference number.
Log in to your NBI account and check the transaction status before paying again.
Do not make a second payment simply because an unofficial website says confirmation must appear within 5, 15, or 30 minutes. The NBI does not publish one universal confirmation time for every payment channel in the official material reviewed here.
No Appointment Slots Are Available
Appointment availability depends on the selected branch and date.
Check the official portal for other available dates or another convenient NBI office.
Avoid relying on claims that slots always open at a particular hour or day of the week.
Wrong Branch Selected
Review your active transaction in the official portal.
If the system allows changes, follow the current instructions displayed there.
If you cannot change the branch through your account, contact NBI Clearance support before creating a duplicate transaction.
Incorrect Personal Information
Review your profile before submitting.
If you notice incorrect information during branch verification, tell the NBI personnel before printing.
For errors that cannot be corrected through your account, contact NBI for the current correction procedure.
Lost Reference Number
Log back in to the official NBI portal and check your transaction history or active application.
Also check any screenshots, notes, or payment receipts you saved.
For future applications, keep a digital and offline copy of the reference number as soon as it is generated.
HIT Delayed the Release
A HIT requires extra verification.
The current NBI guide says review usually takes 5 to 10 working days.
Return on the date given by NBI. Do not pay another clearance fee just because the application has a HIT.
NBI Clearance Office Locations
NBI operates clearance centers in NCR and many regional, district, LGU, mall, and satellite locations nationwide.
Examples in the official directory include offices in:
- Manila
- Quezon City
- Muntinlupa
- Mandaluyong
- Las Piñas
- Pasig
- Marikina
- Baguio
- San Fernando, La Union
- Dagupan
- Laoag
- Tuguegarao
- Cabanatuan
- Olongapo
- Batangas
- Lipa
- Tagaytay
- Bacoor
- Lucena
- Sta. Rosa
- Puerto Princesa
- Legazpi
- Naga
- Iloilo
- Roxas City
- And many more locations
Do not copy old branch addresses or opening hours from third-party websites.
Use the official directory:
Tips for a Smoother NBI Clearance Application
Use the Official Portal
Start from nbi.gov.ph or clearance.nbi.gov.ph.
Prepare Your IDs Before Registering
Make sure your legal name and birth details match your identification documents.
Double-Check Your Profile
Correct mistakes before submitting whenever possible.
Save Your Reference Number Immediately
Keep a screenshot and payment receipt.
Check Your Branch Hours
Office hours differ by branch.
A mall-based clearance center may open later than the U.N. Avenue office or a regional office.
Do Not Pay Twice Without Checking
If payment confirmation appears delayed, check your NBI transaction and keep your receipt before trying again.
Follow the Date Given for a HIT
The return date is based on NBI verification, so use the schedule provided by NBI staff.
Check eGovPH If You Are Renewing
Eligible previous applicants may now have access to the newer NBI eClearance renewal service through the eGovPH Super App.
NBI Clearance Contact Information
For current clearance concerns, the official NBI contact page lists:
NBI Clearance Center
Address: NBI Clearance Building, United Nations Avenue, Ermita, Manila 1000
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Clearance Inquiries
Landline: (02) 8524-1277
Mobile: 0939 150 2880
Email: nbiclearance@nbi.gov.ph
Clearance Delivery
Mobile: +63 949 631 0713
Mobile: +63 920 412 9999
Delivery Helpdesk
Mobile: +63 961 731 9404
Mobile: +63 960 891 5222
Mobile: +63 960 828 7044
Mailed Clearance
Mobile: 0915 689 3113
Mobile: 0920 122 3327
Email: mailedclearance@nbi.gov.ph
Contact details can change. Check https://nbi.gov.ph/contact/ before calling or sending documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply for NBI Clearance online?
Go to https://clearance.nbi.gov.ph/, register or log in, complete your profile, apply for clearance, choose a branch and schedule, select a payment method, save your reference number, pay, and then visit the branch for biometrics and processing.
How much is NBI Clearance in 2026?
The current NBI guide lists a ₱130 basic clearance fee plus an e-payment service charge that is usually around ₱25 to ₱30.
What payment methods can I use?
The current NBI guide lists GCash, Maya, 7-Eleven, Bayad Center, and online banking.
How many IDs do I need?
The official NBI Citizen’s Charter lists two valid government-issued identification cards.
Do I need a 2 x 2 photo for a regular local NBI Clearance application?
For ordinary local branch processing, NBI captures your photograph during biometrics.
The 2 x 2 white-background photo requirement is specifically stated in the official procedure for applicants abroad.
What is an NBI HIT?
A HIT means your application requires additional verification. It can occur when there is a similar or identical name connected to a record. It does not automatically prove that you have a criminal record.
How long does a HIT take?
The current NBI guide says it usually takes 5 to 10 working days. Follow the return date given by NBI staff.
Do I pay an extra fee for a HIT?
The current NBI guide says you return on the specified date without paying extra.
Can I get NBI Clearance free as a first-time job seeker?
Qualified first-time job seekers can obtain NBI Clearance free under Republic Act No. 11261.
What documents does a first-time job seeker need?
The official NBI Citizen’s Charter lists Barangay Certification and two valid government-issued IDs or acceptable certificates. The current general NBI guide also refers to a signed Oath of Undertaking.
Can I apply for NBI Clearance while abroad?
Yes. NBI provides a mailed clearance procedure for applicants abroad using Form No. 5, rolled fingerprints, a recent 2 x 2 photograph, and passport biodata page copy.
How much is a mailed NBI Clearance application from abroad?
The current official NBI procedure lists ₱200, consisting of a ₱130 clearance fee and ₱70 mailing cost.
How long does NBI process an overseas mailed application?
NBI says processing takes a maximum of five working days after receipt of complete documents. Postal transit time is separate.
Can I renew NBI Clearance online?
Yes, eligible previous applicants may use online renewal. The NBI also launched NBI eClearance through the eGovPH Super App on July 6, 2026 for eligible users.
Can I walk in without an online application?
The safest approach for ordinary applicants is to complete the online process first. However, official NBI Citizen’s Charter material includes walk-in procedures, including a specific FTJS walk-in process, so it is inaccurate to claim that every walk-in is automatically rejected nationwide.
Are all NBI branches open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM?
No. Official NBI branch hours vary. Some offices open at 7:00 AM, while some mall branches operate from 9:00 AM or 10:00 AM and close later.
What if I miss my appointment date?
Check your transaction in the official portal first. The current NBI guide states that a transaction marked PAID has a 15-day grace period under recent system updates.
Where can I find the official list of NBI offices?
Use: https://nbi.gov.ph/nbi-clearance-offices/
Final Thoughts
Getting an NBI Clearance is straightforward when you prepare before starting.
For most ordinary applicants, the process is:
- Register through the official NBI Clearance portal.
- Verify the account using OTP.
- Complete and review your applicant profile.
- Apply for clearance.
- Choose a branch and appointment schedule.
- Pay the ₱130 basic fee plus the applicable e-payment service charge.
- Save your reference number and receipt.
- Bring two valid government-issued IDs.
- Complete your photo, fingerprint, and signature capture at the branch.
- Receive the clearance if there is No HIT, or return on the date given if additional verification is required.
First-time job seekers have a separate free process under RA 11261. Applicants abroad can use the official mailed clearance procedure. Eligible renewal applicants should also check the newer NBI eClearance service in the eGovPH Super App.
Most importantly, use official NBI information for payments, requirements, office hours, and current procedures. NBI systems and service options change over time, and old third-party instructions can easily become inaccurate.
