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When you apply for a job, especially as a recent graduate, many companies ask for an NBI Clearance. But this official document isn't for first-time job seekers alone.
Public and private institutions also ask for an NBI Clearance when you set up a business or open a bank account, especially if you lack government-issued IDs.
Luckily, you can now apply for an NBI Clearance without spending hours in line. NBI has created an online appointment system to schedule a visit to any of the agency's branches.
Here's a guide to help you through the process.
What’s an NBI Clearance?
NBI, or the National Bureau of Investigation, probes into crimes and violations of Philippine law. It issues the NBI Clearance as a key part of background checks used for legal, professional, and administrative purposes.
The NBI Clearance serves as a certificate that verifies you’re not involved in any criminal activities in the Philippines.
When Do You Need an NBI Clearance?
You may need to submit an NBI clearance in these situations:
- Pre-employment background checks in both local and international companies
- Philippine passport applications if you have no primary ID
- Residency permits or citizenship applications abroad
- Enrollment or admission in universities overseas
- Professional license application or renewal
NBI Clearance Requirements
NBI will ask you to present two government-issued IDs when you apply for an NBI Clearance. These can include any of the following:
- Philippine Passport
- Driver's License
- National ID
- UMID
- TIN ID
- PRC License
- PhilHealth ID
- PAG-IBIG ID
- Postal ID
- Voter's ID
- PWD ID
- Senior Citizen ID
- Solo Parent ID
- OFW ID
- PSA-Issued Birth Certificate
If you're a first-time job seeker, you must also submit a Barangay Certificate as proof of your status. This certificate also confirms you’ve resided at your address for at least six months. The Barangay Certificate is valid for one year from the date of issuance.
How to Schedule Your NBI Clearance Appointment
You no longer need to wake up at dawn to line up for your NBI Clearance application. NBI now requires booking an appointment under its NBI Clearance Online Registration and Application Services (NBI Clearance eServices).
For First-Time Jobseekers
Image Credit: NBI Clearance eServices
To make an NBI appointment, register for an account at NBI Clearance eServices.
- Go to https://firsttimejobseekers.nbi.gov.ph.
- Fill out the necessary fields.
- Tick "Terms of Services" and read through it. Click "Agree" once done.
- Click "Sign Up" when the NBI website returns to your registration form.
- Confirm your registration by entering the OTP sent to your mobile phone or email address.
- Log in to your account and complete the application form. Click "Save Information" when done.
- Review the details you've entered and click "Submit" to save.
Once you have your profile, you can schedule your NBI appointment online.
- Click "Apply for Clearance."
- Choose the type of valid ID you’ll present during the appointment. Click "I Agree."
- Choose your preferred NBI branch and appointment date and time (morning or afternoon). The blue boxes in the calendar will indicate the number of open slots in your preferred branch.
- Review your appointment details and click "Save to Get Reference Number."
- Your reference number will appear, including a QR code and a reminder of documents to bring. Take a photo or write down your reference number, which will serve as your "gate pass" when you go to NBI.
You don't need to pay for an NBI Clearance under the First-Time Jobseekers Assistance Act. On your appointment date, keep an eye out for the first-time job seeker lane at some NBI branches.
For a Multipurpose NBI Clearance
If you’re applying for an NBI Clearance but are not a first-time job seeker, you also need an NBI online registration and to pay for your certificate. Follow these steps:
- Visit https://clearance.nbi.gov.ph, sign up to register and complete the application form after logging in.
- Click "Apply for Clearance" to choose the date and time for your NBI appointment.
- Select your payment method (GCash is an option). An NBI Clearance costs ₱130 plus a service fee.
- Follow the instructions for payment.
- Take note or screenshot the reference number, which serves as your gate pass when you go to your chosen NBI branch.
- Go to the Transactions page. You should see your application status as "Paid." Click “Details” to review your application form.
Make sure you have your reference number and two valid IDs on your appointment date. Your NBI clearance should be ready after your photo and biometrics are taken unless your name gets a "HIT."
A HIT shows you have the same name as someone linked to a criminal case. The NBI will ask you to return once they verify that you’re not that person.
How to Renew Your NBI Clearance
The NBI Clearance is valid for a year from the date of issuance. If you’re renewing an old or expiring NBI Clearance, you can complete the process online and have it delivered to your house.
There are two ways to renew, depending on the issue date of your old or expiring NBI Clearance.
Click this yellow box for NBI Clearances issued from October 16, 2016 on the NBI Clearance eServices homepage.
For NBI Clearances issued before 2014, go to the Register window.
After clicking the renewal button that applies to you, fill in the necessary details and follow the instructions for pick-up or delivery.
You still need to book an appointment online to schedule the pick-up at your preferred branch. The renewal fee is ₱160 for this option.
NBI Clearance fee and delivery charge start at ₱360 within Metro Manila. E-wallets like GCash are available as payment methods. Note that a service fee is added to your total transaction fee.
You should receive an acknowledgment email from NBI containing a link to track your NBI clearance delivery.
NBI Clearance FAQs
From validity to HIT status, here are answers to common concerns about NBI Clearance.
What happens if I miss my NBI Clearance appointment?
If you haven’t paid yet, your appointment schedule will be canceled, and you’ll need to book another appointment.
I missed my appointment and paid online already. Can I get a refund?
Please note that the NBI Clearance fee is non-refundable. However, you have 15 days from your appointment to process your clearance at your selected NBI branch. Your transaction form in the NBI Clearance eServices will indicate the validity period of your appointment.
What are the payment methods for the NBI Clearance?
You can pay your NBI Clearance fees through the following options:
- GCash
- ECPay
- Bank Over the Counter
- Online Banks
- Visa/MasterCard
- 7-Eleven Stores
- Cash Payments
Does NBI still accept walk-ins to get clearance?
No, NBI has made online appointment scheduling mandatory.
How long do I have to wait for my NBI Clearance?
You should get your NBI Clearance on the day of your appointment. However, you may have to return on another date if your name comes up as a "HIT."
What should I do if I get a "HIT" on my name?
A HIT means a person with the same name as yours has been involved in a criminal case. When your name is tagged as a HIT, NBI will ask you to return on another schedule to clarify the record.
Is NBI clearance a valid ID?
No, it’s not an ID but an official document that attests to your background. Companies or institutions can accept NBI Clearance when a primary ID is unavailable. However, always check with the company first to verify their list of accepted identification.
Is NBI Clearance the same as Police Clearance?
No, they’re two different documents. A Police Clearance proves you have no criminal record in your city or municipality. It’s issued by your local police station.
Where do I call if I have an issue with my NBI Clearance?
You can call the following NBI contact numbers:
- (02) 8523-8231 to 38 local 5523, 5430, or 5509
- (02) 8524-1277
- (02) 8522-8788
For delivery concerns:
Make Your Experience Hassle-Free
No one really looks forward to applying for government-issued documents. Thanks to digital technology, agencies like the NBI have improved online services, letting you skip long queues and pay service fees with GCash. Embrace the convenience!
