How to Get NBI Clearance in Dubai – Complete Guide for Filipinos

Many Filipinos living or working in Dubai think they will never need an NBI Clearance again after leaving the Philippines. But in real life, some situations still require it, such as getting a new job, renewing a visa, or meeting family and personal requirements. If you suddenly need an updated NBI Clearance while staying in Dubai, you do not have to panic. You can get it without going back to the Philippines.

This article explains everything in a simple way. You will learn where to apply, what documents to prepare, how to fill out the form, where to go for fingerprinting, and how long the process takes. Follow each step and you will finish your application smoothly.

Why You Still Need NBI Clearance in Dubai

An NBI Clearance is an official record from the Philippines showing that you do not have any criminal case. Many offices and agencies ask for it, including:

• Employers in the Philippines or abroad
• Visa processing centers
• Government offices
• Business and legal agencies

Even if you have lived in Dubai for many years, you may still need this clearance for identification, job applications, or immigration needs.

The good news is that you can process everything in Dubai through the Philippine Consulate.

Where You Can Apply in Dubai

Philippine Consulate General – Dubai
Address: Villa No. 234-851, Beirut Street, Al Qusais 3, Dubai, UAE
Phone: +971 4 2207100

It is better to call before going. Confirm the current schedule, documents needed, and recent fee updates.

Requirements for NBI Clearance Application in Dubai

Prepare all documents before visiting so you do not need to return again. Here is the list.

Required Documents

• NBI Form No. 5 (free from the Consulate)
• Special Power of Attorney (SPA) for your representative in the Philippines
• Two 2×2 ID photos with white background
• Original passport + photocopy
• Valid UAE visa + photocopy
• Processing fee (around 340 AED)

Note: The fee may change depending on currency and service updates, so confirm at the Consulate.

Step-by-Step Process to Get NBI Clearance in Dubai

Follow these steps in order so everything goes smoothly.

Step 1: Go to the Philippine Consulate

Visit the Consulate in Al Qusais. Tell the staff that you are applying for NBI Clearance. They will give you:

• NBI Form No. 5
• SPA form

Both forms are free and can be filled out inside the Consulate.

Step 2: Fill Out the NBI Form Carefully

Write neatly using black ink. Avoid mistakes because errors can delay your application. You must write basic personal information such as:

• Full name
• Birthday
• Place of birth
• Civil status
• Address in Dubai and the Philippines
• Occupation
• Passport number

Double-check every detail before submitting.

Step 3: Attach Your 2×2 Photo

Paste one recent 2×2 picture on the form. The photo must:

• Have a white background
• Be taken within the last three months
• Show your full face clearly

Step 4: Go for Fingerprinting at CID

After filling out your form, the Consulate will instruct you to go to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in Al Mulla Plaza for fingerprinting.

This part is very important. Fingerprinting must be done by authorized officers so the NBI in Manila will accept it. When finished, the CID will stamp and sign your form.

Step 5: Return to the Consulate and Pay the Fee

Go back to the Consulate with your stamped form. Pay the required fee (around 340 AED). They will give you an official receipt. Keep this receipt as proof of payment.

Step 6: Send the Documents to the Philippines

Your NBI form must be sent to the NBI Main Office in Manila. You can send it through:

• DHL
• LBC
• Any trusted courier service

If someone in the Philippines will process it for you, they must bring:

• Your NBI Form No. 5 (with fingerprints)
• Passport photocopy
• SPA letter
• Payment receipt

Step 7: Wait for the Clearance to be Released

After your representative submits the form, it usually takes 5 to 10 working days for the NBI to process your clearance.

Once finished, the NBI Clearance can be:

• Picked up in person by your representative
• Shipped back to Dubai using an international courier

Processing time may change depending on the number of applicants.

Helpful Tips for a Smooth Application

• Call the Consulate first before going.
• Bring extra photocopies of your passport and visa.
• Write in neat and clear handwriting.
• Keep your receipt and reference number safe.
• Be patient because some steps may take extra time.

How Long Does the Whole Process Take?

The complete process usually takes 2 to 4 weeks. The Consulate and NBI both process forms fast, but courier delivery time takes longer, especially when sending documents between Dubai and Manila.

Conclusion

Applying for NBI Clearance in Dubai is not hard when you know the correct steps. You only need to prepare the documents, visit the Consulate, get your fingerprints taken, send the papers to the Philippines, and wait for your clearance to be released.

This document is very important for work, travel, and legal records. When you follow all steps properly, you can get your NBI Clearance even while living abroad.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I register online?
Yes. You can make an account at the NBI Clearance website, but fingerprinting must still be done in Dubai.

2. Is the NBI Form No. 5 free?
Yes. You get it at the Consulate for free.

3. Can someone process it for me in the Philippines?
Yes. Use an SPA to authorize someone.

4. Do I need to appear in person in Dubai?
Yes. You must visit the Consulate and CID for fingerprinting.

5. How long is the clearance valid?
It is valid for one year from the release date.