NBI Clearance Online Appointment - NBI Registration 2025

Getting your NBI clearance shouldn’t mean spending hours in line or wrestling with paperwork. In the Philippines, this straightforward document from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) proves you have no criminal record, think of it as your ticket to smoother job hunts, visa approvals, or everyday government dealings. Whether you’re a fresh grad eyeing your first paycheck or someone gearing up for an overseas stint, the online system makes the whole thing a breeze. No more showing up at dawn just to snag a slot, book your appointment from your phone or laptop, pay securely, and walk out with your clearance the same day if everything checks out clean.

GET YOUR NBI APPOINTMENT

Applying for an NBI Clearance just got simpler, and we’re here to walk you through it! Whether you’re a first-time job seeker, planning to work or travel abroad, or need a clean criminal record for legal purposes, the NBI Clearance is your go-to document to prove you’re free of criminal history.

Our friendly guide starts by explaining what the NBI Clearance is and why it’s important. Then, we’ll walk you through creating your account, entering your details with a valid government-issued ID, scheduling an appointment, paying the standard fee (as set by Act 11261), submitting your fingerprints, and finally collecting your clearance.

Why do you need NBI Clearance?

You may need an NBI clearance for:

Job: To verify no criminal record and protect workplaces during onboarding.
Visa: Visa: Required for foreigners’ visa applications as a character reference, check NBI Clearance for Foreigners.
Personal Use: For business registrations to assure clear history and reputation.
Education: Required for student enrollment to check suitability.
Government: Needed for financial, licensing, and ID transactions.

What Is an NBI Clearance?

You’re applying for a teaching gig or renewing your passport, and they ask for proof you’re not tangled in any legal mess. That’s where the NBI clearance steps in. Issued by the National Bureau of Investigation, a key arm of the Department of Justice in the Philippines, it’s basically a fresh criminal background check. It scans national records to confirm no warrants, arrests, or convictions are linked to your name.
Not just for big moves, either. Folks use it for business permits, school enrollments, or even joining a local co-op. Under Republic Act No. 11261, it’s standardized nationwide, so one clearance works everywhere from Manila to Mindanao. Bottom line, if trust is on the line, this paper seals the deal.

NBI PORTAL

CLICK HERE FOR FIRST TIME JOB-SEEKER

CLICK HERE FOR MULTIPURPOSE/REGULAR

How to Apply For NBI Clearance Online Registration?

A computer, smartphone, or tablet with a good internet connection is required for an NBI Clearance Online.

How to Apply for NBI Clearance Online?

To apply for an NBI Clearance, you can choose between two methods, online registration or walk-in registration. Each approach has its own steps and factors to consider. Below is a clear guide for both:

Physical Appointment Registration (Walk-In NBI Clearance Application)

This approach involves visiting an NBI office to handle all steps in person, from registration to receiving your clearance.

Go to an NBI Office: Visit the nearest NBI branch or satellite location office.
Complete the Form: Pick up a physical application form at the office and fill in your personal details by hand.
Pay the Fee: Settle the clearance fee at the designated counter within the NBI office.
Biometric Data Capture: After payment, queue for your photo and fingerprint scanning.
Wait for Clearance Delivery: If your record is clear, you may receive your clearance on the same day. A system match (“hit”) will result in longer processing time.

Disadvantages of Walk-In Application

Applying in person for an NBI Clearance demands significant time and effort. Expect long queues, unpredictable wait times, and the inconvenience of manually completing forms and making payments on-site. There’s no option to schedule an appointment, and errors during the process could cause delays.

Requirements for First-Time Job Seekers

To get their NBI Clearance for free, first-time job seekers need to present:

A valid Barangay Certificate.
The certificate must confirm at least 6 months of residency.
It should also state that the applicant is seeking their first job opportunity.

Basis for Waiving Fee

Waiving the NBI Clearance Online fee for first-time job seekers is part of the Philippine government’s effort to support new workforce entrants under Republic Act 11261, or the “First Time Jobseekers Act.” Through this initiative, first-time applicants can apply for their NBI Clearance at no cost using the NBI Clearance eServices platform, simplifying the process and ensuring greater accessibility.

Online Appointment Registration

If you’re renewing an existing NBI Clearance, head straight to the NBI Appointment Renewal Online portal for a quick update, no full re-registration is needed. For first-timers, follow the simple steps below to secure your slot via the official NBI website, ensuring fast processing for jobs, visas, or travel in the Philippines.

Go to the NBI Clearance Services Website

For your NBI clearance, start at https://clearance.nbi.gov.ph/. The National Bureau of Investigation makes the application process simple online. Their site works great on any device, and it’s easy to navigate between information on requirements, fees, procedures, and more. Take a quick look through their digital materials before beginning your application.

Register for a New Account or Login

To begin your NBI Clearance process by visiting the official NBI website, just click to register and book your slot today. First-time job seekers, streamline it further at https://firsttimejobseekers.nbi.gov.ph/ for dedicated support. Don’t forget to prepare your valid IDs and meet all NBI Clearance requirements to breeze through biometrics and approval!

In the NBI form, answer “No” to “Do you have an old NBI Clearance issued from 2014 to present?” if you’re a first-time applicant in the Philippines, this skips prior records for seamless setup. Proceed to biometrics and get your clearance ready for jobs or visas!

Complete the registration form by entering your personal details. Make sure all information is correct, as it will be used for your verification. Once you’re done, tick the boxes for “READ AND ACCEPT TERMS OF SERVICES” and “I’m not a robot.” Finally, click on “SIGNUP” to proceed.

Verification Code

After creating your account, you will receive a 6-digit One-Time Password (OTP) on your registered mobile number to verify your identity. Enter the code on the website within 5 minutes.

Email Activation

Once the code is entered, the website will send an activation email to the address you registered with. Check your inbox for a message from “NBI Clearance Online Services” and locate the button labeled something like “Activate Account.”

Completing Registration

Go ahead and click that activation button, which will return you to the website. You should then see a message confirming that your account has been successfully set up.

Sign-in and Application

You’re now ready to sign in using your new credentials. From there, you can start and submit your actual NBI clearance online application.

Fill Out the Online Application Form Completely

Once logged in, you’ll be taken to the multi-section digital application form. This form will guide you step by step, starting with your personal details, followed by your current residential address, and employment or educational information if applicable. To make the process easier and reduce errors, drop-down menus are provided for quick and accurate selections.

After your account is verified, you’ll be redirected to the Application Information page. Fill in all the required fields marked with an asterisk (*), including personal details like your civil status, birthplace, and other necessary information.

You can upload the required supporting documents, such as a photo ID, proof of address, and employment records, directly from your computer or device. Alternatively, you may link them through Google Drive or Dropbox for verification later in the process.

Applicants no longer need to print the NBI clearance application form, as it is securely stored in the NBI database. For processing, simply present your reference number at the designated branch.

When you’ve completed the form, click “SAVE INFORMATION.” Carefully review the summary of your details. If any corrections are needed, select “EDIT INFORMATION.” Once everything looks accurate, proceed by clicking “APPLY FOR CLEARANCE.”

Valid Identification

During the NBI Clearance online registration, there’s this part where you pick your ID from a dropdown menu. Think of it like showing your backstage pass – they just need to know you’re really you! If you don’t have a primary ID like a UMID or a passport, some applicants consider applying for a Police Clearance Online as an alternative ID option.

After clicking “APPLY FOR CLEARANCE,” you’ll be prompted to select from a list of valid IDs. If you have a UMID or a passport, those are ideal choices. Simply select one and enter the corresponding ID number to proceed.

Valid IDs

You’ll be asked to choose the valid IDs you’ll present at the NBI office. Accepted government-issued IDs include passports, driver’s licenses, the Philippine National ID (digital), PRC IDs, UMIDs, and more.

Passports
Professional Regulation IDs (PRC)
UMID
Driver’s Licenses
Senior Citizen Documents
National Identity Cards
Seafarer Documents
Mariner Certificates
Disability IDs
Voting Registration Cards

After selecting your IDs, click “I AGREE” to proceed to the appointment scheduling.

Upload Clear Copies of ID Photos

To submit your photo electronically, you have two options:

Use the built-in camera feature on the website by clicking the camera icon on the photo upload page.
Or, upload an existing image from your device that meets the NBI requirements.

Your photo must be at least 150 x 200 pixels, showing your full face and shoulders clearly against a plain white background. Following these NBI photo guidelines ensures smooth and hassle-free processing.

Select Field Office and Schedule Appointment

Choose the NBI branch that’s most convenient for you, whether near your home, workplace, or school. Opt for a location with easy access and available appointment slots. Selecting the right branch will help you save time.

Look at the calendar for dates highlighted in blue, as these indicate available slots. Most NBI branches operate from Monday to Friday, with both morning and afternoon appointments.

Pick a date and time that works best for your schedule. Since popular branches fill up quickly, it’s best to book early to secure a convenient slot. Reserving in advance helps reduce waiting time and ensures a smooth, hassle-free experience.

When scheduling your appointment, double-check the branch, date, and time displayed in the “Upcoming Appointment” section before proceeding with payment. This is your final chance to confirm the details, since changes can’t be made after payment.

If you happen to miss your scheduled slot, don’t worry, you still have up to two weeks to visit the branch and complete your clearance.

After selecting a blue-marked date and time from the NBI online calendar, carefully review your appointment details shown on the right side of the screen. Once everything looks correct, go ahead and confirm your selection.

Choose Payment Method and Settle Fees

After setting your appointment, you’ll be directed to the payment section. The NBI provides multiple payment methods for your convenience, including:

Pay over the counter at various banks.
Online banking via your bank’s app. Search for NBI as the payee.
Visit nearby Bayad Centers Outlets
Pay through e-wallet services like GCash, Maya, or DragonPay using your mobile number as the reference.
Pay via credit card on ECPay or through ShopeePay.
For cash payments, 7-Eleven are accepting NBI fee payments too.

Choose your preferred payment method and click “PROCEED.” A unique reference number will then be generated for your transaction.
The standard NBI clearance fee is PHP 130. If you pay through e-payment channels like 7-Eleven, Visa/Mastercard, or GCash, an additional PHP 25 service charge applies, bringing the total to PHP 155.

Make sure to keep your reference number safe, you’ll need it not only for making the payment but also when you visit the NBI office.
After completing the payment, check your status online. Once processed, it will be updated to “Paid.” You’ll also receive a text confirmation on your registered mobile number for added assurance.

With the payment all taken care of, your NBI clearance processing is just about ready to go.

Receive Application Details via Email/SMS

Once the online process is completed, you’ll receive an auto-generated email or text notification sent to your registered contact number or email.

This message will contain important details such as your appointment date, reporting time, exact NBI branch address, and a unique application reference number. Be sure to keep this notification safe, as you’ll need to present the tracking ID on your scheduled date for verification at the NBI office.

Present Requirements on Appointment Day

On your scheduled appointment day, you’ll need to personally visit the NBI office, there’s no way around this since they must capture your biometrics (fingerprints and photo) to confirm your identity.

Here’s what to bring and how to prepare:

Two valid government-issued IDs (no Barangay Clearance or non-gov’t IDs allowed)
Your official receipt and reference number
Dress smart and professional, avoid sandals, shorts, or gym wear. Business casual (like a polo shirt) works perfectly.

What happens at the office:

Head to the staff counter, present your IDs and reference number, and follow their instructions.
They’ll guide you through fingerprinting and photo capture.
Double-check your personal details on the system while you’re there to catch any errors right away.

Claim NBI Clearance Certificate

Once your biometric capture and processing is finished, you can usually claim your printed NBI Clearance Certificate the same day at the designated release counters, just make sure it’s before office closing hours.

But here’s the catch, sometimes an applicant gets flagged with a “HIT Status.”

A “HIT” simply means that someone with a similar or identical name may have a criminal record or pending case. It doesn’t mean you’re guilty of anything, it’s just the NBI’s way of double-checking. Think of it like having a common Facebook name, they need to confirm that you’re not that other person.

In such cases, your clearance release might take a bit longer while they complete the verification.

If your application falls under HIT Status, expect a waiting period of around 10–15 working days while the NBI verifies and clears your records. Once everything is sorted, you’ll need to return (or send your authorized representative) to claim your certificate.

An NBI Authorization Letter lets someone you trust claim your clearance on your behalf if you can’t make it in person.

This situation is pretty common, especially for those with very common names, like Juan Santos or Maria Garcia. If that’s the case, it’s smart to factor in the possible delay so you’re not caught off guard.

How to Renew Your NBI Clearance Online?

If your NBI Clearance is about to expire and you’d rather skip the long lines, you can easily renew it online. Here’s how to do it step by step:

Head to the NBI website and log in to your online account. You’ll see a button labeled “NBI Clearance online Renewal” click that button.

Next, you’ll be asked to provide a few details from your expired NBI clearance, such as the issue date and the ID number.
⚠️ Important: Only clearances issued on or after October 2016 are eligible for online renewal. If yours was processed before that, you’ll need to apply for a new clearance instead of a renewal.

If all the details match, click “Verify.” This will bring you to the renewal form, where you can review your information and update anything that may have changed, no stress about typos, since you can edit before proceeding.

Once everything looks good, select your delivery option.

📍 Metro Manila addresses usually receive the renewed clearance within 5–7 working days.
📍 Areas outside Metro Manila may take up to 2 weeks, depending on the location.

This way, your renewed NBI clearance gets delivered straight to your doorstep, hassle-free.

After entering your delivery details, proceed to select your payment method.
The total fee for NBI clearance renewal is ₱330, which already includes the courier delivery charge. Once your payment option is confirmed, a reference number will be generated.
Be sure to take a screenshot or write it down, you’ll need it to track your payment and delivery status.

Once you complete the payment, the funds are deducted right away. From there, it’s just a matter of waiting for your renewed NBI Clearance to arrive at your doorstep.

You can easily track its delivery status and estimated arrival date by entering your reference number on the NBI website.

A few perks of renewal:

You can update or edit your personal details online.
No need for another in-person visit.
The process is much faster and more convenient than a new application.

Common Challenges in the NBI Clearance Process

While the NBI online appointment system is designed for convenience, certain issues may occur. Below are the most frequent challenges and their solutions:

1: “Hit” Status

A “hit” status appears when your name matches another individual in the system, possibly linked to a pending case or record.
Solution: Stay calm if you receive a “hit”, it doesn’t automatically indicate a criminal record. The NBI will reach out if further documents are needed for verification. This process typically takes a few days to resolve.

2: Payment Failures

Online payments for NBI clearance appointments may fail due to internet issues or incorrect payment details.
Solution: Verify your payment method and details. If the issue persists, try an alternative payment option or contact your bank. As a last resort, you can visit an NBI office to pay in person.

3: No Available Appointment Slots

The NBI appointment system operates on a first-come, first-served basis, and slots can fill up quickly.
Solution: Regularly check the system for cancellations or newly available slots. Consider selecting a different NBI branch with more open appointments.

4: Missing or Invalid Documents

Forgetting required identification documents or bringing invalid ones can prevent you from completing the process during your appointment.
Solution: Always review the list of required valid IDs before your appointment. Bring at least two valid IDs and consider having an extra one to avoid issues.

Additional Tip: For further assistance, contact the NBI at:

Hotline: +632 8523 8231
Email: nbiclearance@nbi.gov.ph

Feel free to contact these for support with issues or additional guidance.

Tips and Tricks Smooth NBI Clearance Application

Here are practical, tested tips to ensure a faster and smoother NBI clearance application:

Book Early: Appointment slots fill up quickly, especially for urgent or time-sensitive needs. Schedule your visit as soon as possible through the NBI online portal to secure your preferred date and branch.
Organize Your Documents: Before your appointment, gather all required documents. Ensure you have at least two valid, unexpired IDs. Bring extra copies of your application form and payment receipt to avoid complications.
Secure a Reliable Internet Connection: For online registration and payments, use a stable internet connection to prevent errors or disruptions during the process.
Arrive Ahead of Schedule: On your appointment day, get to the NBI branch early. This helps you manage any unexpected delays and ensures a smoother experience.
Proactively Address Potential “Hits”: If you have a common name or previous “hit” issues, contact the NBI office beforehand to check for potential matches. This can help you prepare and avoid delays.

Conclusion

Obtaining or renewing an NBI clearance has become much simpler through the online system. The entire process, from registration to receiving your certificate, can now be completed conveniently from anywhere. First-time applicants and those renewing can easily navigate the streamlined digital workflow using just their mobile devices or computers.

With standardized NBI Clearance Online Requirements nationwide and a straightforward online process, getting your NBI clearance is now fast, affordable, and hassle-free. The digital transformation has eliminated the need for long queues at field offices, saving valuable time for Filipinos while ensuring they maintain valid legal documentation.

Video Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

The NBI Clearance is an official document issued by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) in the Philippines. It certifies that a person has no criminal record or pending criminal case under their name within the country.

You can easily apply for an NBI Clearance online by following these steps:
Go to the official website: https://clearance.nbi.gov.ph
Register for a new account or log in if you already have one.
Fill out the online application form and schedule your appointment.
Pay the required fee through your preferred online payment method or at authorized payment centers.
On your appointment date, visit the chosen NBI branch to complete your biometrics and photo capture.
✅ That’s it, once processed, you can claim your NBI Clearance, usually on the same day (unless you get a HIT status).

Here’s a quick checklist of what you need to bring when applying for your NBI Clearance:
Valid government-issued ID (e.g., Passport, UMID, Driver’s License, PhilHealth ID, PRC ID, etc.)
Barangay Certificate – required if you’re applying as a first-time job seeker under the law granting free NBI clearance.
Application Reference Number – generated during your online registration.
Official Payment Receipt – as proof of payment for your application.
Having all these ready will ensure a smooth and hassle-free application process.

If you lose your NBI Clearance, it cannot be reissued. Instead, you’ll need to apply for a new clearance by going through the standard application process again, online registration, payment, and biometrics capture.

₱155 – For first-time applicants and renewals without “HIT” (regular processing).
₱200 – For applicants with a “HIT” status, since additional verification is required.
⚠️ Keep in mind that e-payment channels (like GCash, 7-Eleven, or bank partners) may add a ₱25 service charge.

A “HIT” occurs when your name matches or is similar to someone listed in the NBI database.

The NBI Clearance is valid for one (1) year starting from the date it was issued.

Yes, you can reschedule your NBI appointment online as long as you do it before your scheduled date.

Yes, foreigners, dual citizens, and expats can apply for an NBI Clearance in the Philippines. However, they are required to present additional supporting documents, such as:

📌 Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR I-Card)
📌 Valid Passport (original and photocopy)

To check the status of your NBI Clearance application, follow these steps:
Online Tracking: Log in to your account on the official NBI Clearance website to view updates on your application status.
Contact or Visit: Alternatively, call the NBI hotline or visit the branch where you applied for direct assistance.

Return to the NBI branch where you applied for corrections. Minor errors may be fixed on the spot, while major discrepancies may require reapplication.

No, you must visit the NBI office for biometric data capture and verification. The online application is for scheduling and payment purposes only.

No “Hit”: If there is no match in the NBI database, the clearance can be issued on the same day.
With “Hit”: If there is a potential match, further verification is required, which may take several days.

Yes, under Republic Act No. 11261, first-time job seekers are entitled to a free NBI clearance. They must present a valid ID and a certification from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to avail of this benefit.

Having a pending criminal case does not automatically prevent the issuance of an NBI clearance. The clearance will indicate “Pending Case” if there is an ongoing case. To update this status, you may need to provide proof of the case’s resolution, such as a court order or dismissal certificate.

If You Haven’t Paid: Your appointment will be automatically canceled.
If You Have Paid: You can process your application at the selected NBI branch within 15 days from the original appointment date. After this period, your application and payment will be forfeited.

No, each applicant must personally apply and appear for biometric data capture. The NBI requires the applicant’s latest photo and biometric information, which cannot be processed by an authorized representative.

NBI Clearance Online | NBI Appointment and Renewal 2025 (Updated)

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