NBI Clearance Centers in the Philippines 2025 – Locations and Services
Getting an NBI Clearance is one of the most important steps for anyone applying for a job, traveling abroad, or completing legal documents in the Philippines. The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) manages several official NBI Clearance Centers nationwide to make the process faster and more convenient for everyone.
This article explains what an NBI Clearance Center is, where you can find one, how to apply, what to bring, and why these centers are important in 2025. Understand the NBI Hit status before applying.
What is an NBI Clearance Center?
An NBI Clearance Center is a government office where you can apply for, renew, or claim your NBI Clearance Certificate. This document is proof that you have no criminal record in the Philippines. It is often required for:
- Job applications
- Visa and travel documents
- Business permits
- Government transactions
Each center is equipped with computers and biometric systems to take your photo, fingerprints, and signature quickly. These digital systems help reduce errors and make the process faster.
Main Purpose of NBI Clearance Centers
The main goal of these centers is to make NBI clearance services available across the country. Whether you live in Metro Manila, Luzon, Visayas, or Mindanao, there’s always a nearby center to help you.
The centers ensure that every Filipino can access secure, verified, and accurate clearance services without needing to travel far.
List of NBI Clearance Centers in the Philippines (2025)
Here are some of the major NBI Clearance Centers you can visit:
Metro Manila and Nearby Areas
- NBI U.N. Avenue, Manila
- Quezon City Hall, Diliman
- Mandaluyong City Hall, Maysilo Circle
- Muntinlupa City – Victory Shopping Center, Alabang
- Las Piñas City Hall / SM Center Las Piñas
- Robinsons Galleria, Ortigas Avenue
- Robinsons Place Manila, Ermita
- Robinsons Metro East, Pasig
- Ever Gotesco Recto, Manila
Luzon Regional and District Offices
- Baguio City – Upper Session Road
- San Fernando, Pampanga – Capitol Compound
- Batangas City – Capitol Hills
- Lucena City – NIA Compound
- Legazpi City – Quezon Avenue
- Tuguegarao – Carig Sur
- Dagupan City – A.B. Fernandez West
Visayas Offices
- Iloilo City – Fort San Pedro
- Cebu City – Escario Street, Capitol Site
- Bacolod City – Aguinaldo Street
- Dumaguete – Capitol Area, Daro
Mindanao Offices
- Davao City – J.P. Laurel Avenue
- Zamboanga City – Corcuera Street
- Butuan City – J. Rosales Avenue
- Cagayan de Oro – Capitol Compound
- General Santos City – Lagao
Mall-Based Centers
Many shopping malls in the Philippines also have NBI satellite offices. These include:
- Robinsons Malls (nationwide)
- SM Malls (major cities)
- Ever Gotesco Malls
- Duty Free Philippines (for travel-related clearance)
Before visiting, always check the official NBI website for updates or temporary changes in location or hours. For more details about NBI Centers visit https://nbi.gov.ph/nbi-clearance-offices/
Operating Hours of NBI Clearance Centers
The operating hours depend on the type of center:
| Center Type | Days Open | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Regional and District Offices | Monday – Friday | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Mall-Based Centers | Monday – Friday | 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
All centers are closed on weekends and public holidays unless officially announced by the NBI.
Services Offered at NBI Clearance Centers
Each NBI Clearance Center provides several helpful services for both local and overseas applicants:
- New NBI Clearance Application
- Clearance Renewal (even if expired)
- Biometric Data Capture (photo, fingerprints, signature)
- Verification of Criminal Records
- Background Checks for employment or travel
- Assistance for online registration and payments
- Same-day release for “No Hit” cases
Why NBI Clearance Centers Are Important
These centers play a big role in maintaining public safety and trust. Here’s why they matter:
- Nationwide Access – You can find an NBI office almost anywhere in the country.
- Faster Processing – Biometric systems speed up data collection.
- Secure Verification – Your record is checked against the national database.
- Online Support – The appointment system helps avoid long lines.
- Priority Services – PWDs and senior citizens get special lanes and assistance.
How to Apply for an NBI Clearance at a Center
Follow these simple steps to get your clearance easily:
Step 1: Set an Online Appointment
Visit the NBI Clearance Online Portal and choose your preferred branch, date, and time. Walk-ins are not allowed in most centers.
Step 2: Pay the Clearance Fee
After registering online, pay the fee through GCash, 7-Eleven, Bayad Center, or banks. Keep the reference number for verification.
Step 3: Bring Valid IDs
Prepare at least one valid ID. Accepted IDs include:
- Passport
- UMID
- Driver’s License
- Voter’s ID
- PRC ID
Step 4: Go to the NBI Center Early
Arrive 15–30 minutes early before your appointment time. Late arrivals may be asked to reschedule.
Step 5: Biometric and Photo Capture
NBI staff will take your photo, fingerprints, and signature digitally. Follow instructions carefully.
Step 6: Wait for Your Results
If your record shows “No Hit”, you can get your clearance the same day. If there’s a “Hit”, you may be asked to return in 5–10 working days for verification.
Tips for a Smooth Experience
- Double-check your appointment schedule before visiting.
- Bring extra photocopies of your valid ID.
- Avoid wearing caps, sunglasses, or flashy clothes during photo capture.
- For “Hit” cases, stay patient and check your status regularly.
- Save a digital copy of your clearance for future use.
NBI Clearance for Overseas Filipinos (OFWs)
For Filipinos working or living abroad, NBI also accepts mailed applications. You must:
- Fill out NBI Form No. 5.
- Have your fingerprints taken at the Philippine Embassy or Consulate.
- Send the form and documents to NBI Manila (Mailed Clearance Section).
- Include return postage for delivery of your clearance.
This service helps OFWs, seafarers, and visa applicants who cannot visit the Philippines personally.
Accessibility and Assistance
All official NBI centers are friendly to Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) and senior citizens. Facilities include:
- Ramps and accessible counters
- Priority lanes
- Staff assistance for people with special needs
If you need extra help, you can bring a companion and inform the staff upon arrival.
Mall-Based vs. Regular Clearance Centers
| Feature | Mall-Based Centers | Regional/District Centers |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Inside malls | Government buildings |
| Comfort | Air-conditioned | Standard setup |
| Queue Time | Shorter on weekdays | Depends on volume |
| Hours | 10 AM – 7 PM | 8 AM – 5 PM |
| Services | Full services | Full services |
Pro Tip: Visit mall-based centers midweek (Tuesday or Wednesday) for shorter lines.
Conclusion
The NBI Clearance Centers in the Philippines make it easier than ever to get your clearance for work, travel, or business. With modern biometric systems, online appointments, and nationwide branches, the process has become faster and more convenient.
If you’re planning to apply in 2025, schedule your appointment online, prepare your IDs, and visit the nearest NBI center early. With the right preparation, you can get your clearance smoothly and on the same day.
FAQs
1. Can I go without an online appointment?
No. Most centers require an online appointment before you visit.
2. How long does it take to get my clearance?
If your record is clear (“No Hit”), you’ll get it the same day. Otherwise, it can take 5–10 working days.
3. What if I lost my clearance?
You can reapply online for a duplicate copy at the same or another NBI center.
4. How long is my NBI Clearance valid?
It is valid for one (1) year from the date of issue.
5. Can I renew my clearance online?
Yes, renewal is available through the NBI’s online renewal system.
