NBI Clearance Requirements 2025

The NBI Clearance is one of the most important legal documents in the Philippines. It shows that a person has no criminal record and is often required for employment, travel abroad, business applications, or government exams.

In 2025, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) continues to make the process easier through its online application and appointment system. This article explains all the NBI Clearance requirements and steps for every situation. Check difference between Police Clearance and NBI Clearance.

NBI Clearance Requirements

To get an NBI Clearance, every applicant must complete some basic steps and provide required documents. These requirements help confirm your identity and ensure that your background is properly verified.

The general requirements include:

Two (2) valid government-issued IDs
Completed online registration form
NBI Reference Number
Payment receipt or proof of payment
Personal appearance for biometrics

If you are applying for the first time, renewing, or applying from abroad, some extra documents may be required , which are explained below.

NBI Clearance Requirements for Online Application

The online application is the first step to getting your clearance. It helps you register and book your appointment before going to the NBI Office.

Here are the things you need for the online application:

Active Email Address – You’ll receive your activation link and appointment details through email.
Active Mobile Number – Needed for receiving confirmation codes and notifications.
Personal Information – You must provide details such as:
- Full name (first, middle, and last name)
- Gender and civil status
- Birth date and birth place
- Citizenship and complete address
- Height, weight, complexion, and identifying marks
- Father’s and mother’s names
- Occupation, religion, and education details
Two Valid IDs – Government-issued IDs like UMID, Passport, or Driver’s License are accepted.
Online Payment Method – You must pay the NBI fee online using GCash, Maya, or bank options.

Once all details are filled out correctly, the system will generate your NBI Reference Number and appointment slip.

NBI Clearance Requirements Walk-In

Although most applications are now done online, some NBI branches still allow walk-in applicants in special cases (e.g., senior citizens, PWDs, or emergencies).

For walk-in applications, you must bring:

Two (2) original valid IDs
Completed NBI application form (available at the office)
Exact payment amount (₱130 for regular applications)
Barangay Certificate (if applying as a first-time job seeker)

Walk-in applicants should visit the nearest NBI Office early in the day to secure a slot. However, online application is still highly recommended to save time and avoid long lines.

NBI Clearance Requirements for NBI Appointment

After completing your online application and paying the fee, you must go to your selected NBI branch for your appointment.

Here’s what to bring during your NBI appointment:

Printed Copy of Online Application Form
NBI Reference Number (10-digit code generated during booking)
Official Receipt or Proof of Payment
Two (2) Valid Government IDs
Barangay Certificate (only for first-time job seekers applying under the free clearance program)
Letter of Invitation or Visa Copy (for those applying for travel or study abroad)

Make sure all your documents are complete before going to your scheduled date to avoid delays.

Special NBI Application Categories

The NBI has different requirements for special cases depending on the applicant’s background and purpose.

1. First-Time Applicants

If you are applying for the first time:

Create an account on the NBI website
Fill out the form correctly
Schedule an appointment
Pay the required fee
Appear in person for biometrics
Bring two valid IDs

2. First-Time Job Seekers (Free Clearance)

Under Republic Act 11261, first-time job seekers can get their NBI Clearance for free if they meet these conditions:

Must be 18 years old or above
Applying for a job for the first time
Must have a Barangay Certificate confirming first-time job seeker status
Must register online at firsttimejobseekers.nbi.gov.ph

Bring the following:

One valid ID
Barangay Certificate
Birth Certificate (PSA-issued)

3. Renewal Applicants

If your last NBI clearance was issued after 2014, you can easily renew it online.

Go to the NBI website and click “Renew Clearance”
Provide your old clearance number
Pay the renewal fee online
Choose between pick-up or home delivery

Damage / Lost NBI Clearance Replacement

If your NBI clearance is lost or damaged, you can apply for a replacement.

Follow these steps:

Go to the NBI website and register a new account.
Select “Replacement of Lost Clearance” as your purpose.
Pay the fee (same as regular clearance – ₱130 + service fee).
Book an appointment and visit your chosen branch.
Bring one valid government-issued ID.
If possible, bring a photocopy of your lost clearance or police report.

This process is similar to applying for a new clearance, but it may be quicker if your details are already stored in the NBI database.

Applications from Overseas

Filipinos living or working abroad can also apply for an NBI Clearance from outside the Philippines.

They need to submit the following documents:

NBI Form No. 5 (available at Philippine Embassies or Consulates)
Two 2×2 photos with white background (recently taken)
Photocopy of valid passport
Fingerprint impressions taken at the embassy or local police station
Authorization letter for a representative in the Philippines

The completed documents can be sent through:

Direct mail to the NBI Main Office in Manila (include ₱200 for mailing fee), or
Authorized representative in the Philippines who will process the application on your behalf.

Requirements for OFWs

For Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), the NBI Clearance is needed for employment, visa, or residency purposes.

OFWs must provide:

Valid Philippine Passport
Two valid IDs
NBI Form No. 5 (from Embassy or Consulate)
Two 2×2 photos (white background)
Authorization letter for representative (if applicable)

The processed clearance must be authenticated by the DFA (Department of Foreign Affairs) and attested by the destination country’s embassy, such as the UAE or Saudi Arabia, before it can be used abroad.

What is NBI Hit Status

An NBI “Hit Status” happens when your name matches someone in the NBI’s criminal record database.

It doesn’t mean you have a criminal record, but it requires manual checking to confirm your identity.

Reasons for a hit include:

Common or similar names in the NBI record system
Unsettled or previously resolved legal cases
Typographical errors in your name

How to Resolve Hit Status

If your clearance is on hold because of a hit, don’t worry. Follow these steps:

Wait for NBI Notification: You’ll be given a date (usually after 5–10 working days) to return to the NBI office.
Bring Your Valid IDs: Present two original IDs.
Attend the Quality Control Interview: You’ll be interviewed by an NBI officer to verify if you are the same person in the record.
Submit Documents: If it’s a namesake issue, you’ll be asked to sign an Affidavit of Denial.
If You Had a Case: Present court documents showing that the case has been resolved or dismissed.

After verification, your clearance will be released once the issue is cleared.

NBI Clearance Payment Methods

The NBI offers several payment options for applicants. You can pay the clearance fee through:

GCash
Maya (PayMaya)
7-Eleven (CLiQQ App)
Bayad Centers
BPI Online
LandBank
Security Bank
ECPay Partners
Visa/Mastercard (Online Payment)

Always keep the payment receipt or reference number because it serves as proof during your appointment.

Fee Waivers

Under Republic Act 11261, first-time job seekers can get one free NBI Clearance.

To qualify:

Must be a Filipino citizen applying for a job for the first time
Must be 18 years or older
Must present a Barangay Certificate confirming first-time job seeker status

While the basic fee is waived, some service fees (₱25) may still apply depending on your payment method.

Clearance Issuance Process

Once you’ve submitted all documents and completed biometric verification, your clearance can be issued:

Same Day: If there are no issues or hits, the clearance is printed immediately.
With Hit Status: You’ll need to wait until the verification is complete (usually 5–10 days).

Your NBI Clearance will include security features such as a barcode and unique number to ensure authenticity.

It’s valid for one year from the date of issuance.

Conclusion

Getting an NBI Clearance in 2025 is now easier with the online application system. Whether you’re applying for the first time, renewing, replacing a lost one, or applying from abroad, the steps are simple if you follow the proper requirements.

Always prepare your documents early, pay the correct fee, and attend your appointment on time. If your name gets a hit, don’t panic , the NBI will guide you through the verification process.

Having a valid NBI Clearance is your key to job opportunities, travel, and many legal transactions in the Philippines and abroad.

FAQs

1. What are the basic NBI Clearance requirements?
Two valid IDs, reference number, online registration, and payment receipt.

2. Can I apply for NBI Clearance without an appointment?
Most branches require an appointment, but walk-in is allowed for senior citizens, PWDs, or emergency cases.

3. How much is the NBI Clearance fee?
₱130 for regular processing, ₱355 for online renewal with delivery.

4. What should I do if I lose my clearance?
Apply for a replacement online and bring a valid ID during your appointment.

5. How long is NBI Clearance valid?
It is valid for one year from the date of issuance.

6. What is a hit status?
A hit means your name matches someone in the NBI database. It needs further verification.

7. Can OFWs apply while abroad?
Yes. They can apply through the Philippine Embassy or authorize a representative in the Philippines.

NBI Clearance Requirements 2025

NBI Clearance Requirements