Can You Claim NBI Clearance at a Different Branch?

A practical legal guide for the Philippines (informational, not legal advice)

Short answer

Before biometrics: you’re free to choose any NBI Clearance branch for your appointment.
After you’ve done biometrics at Branch A: as a general rule, release/printing is handled by Branch A. Cross-branch claiming is not automatic and typically requires prior coordination and approval.
If you hit a “HIT” (name match): follow-up verification and releasing are usually tied to the same branch that captured your biometrics, unless you formally request a transfer and it’s approved.

Why the caution? Even though NBI’s system is centralized, issuance of the physical clearance (on security paper with QR code) is controlled per site for identity, security, inventory, and audit reasons.

The legal/administrative frame (why the rules look this way)

Mandate & data control. The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) issues clearances as part of its law-enforcement mandate (see the NBI’s charter and modernization law). Identity verification, data accuracy, and audit trails are prioritized.
Data privacy. Personal data and criminal history checks involve sensitive information, so in-person appearance for biometrics and controlled releasing help NBI meet Data Privacy Act obligations.
Operational policies. Day-to-day rules (appointment windows, releasing desks, reprints, branch transfers) stem from administrative guidelines, not statutes. They can vary by site and over time.

Key concepts (know these first)

Appointment branch. The location you pick in the online system for appearance + biometrics (photo, fingerprints, signature).
Releasing. Printing/hand-over of your NBI Clearance (often same day, unless there’s a “HIT”).
HIT. Your name matches someone on record; NBI does additional verification before releasing.
Reference numbers. Keep your Application Reference Number (ARN) and payment reference; they anchor any follow-ups, reprints, or transfer requests.

Can you switch branches? Scenarios & rules

1) You have not done biometrics yet

You can book any branch (and rebook if you need to).
After payment, some fields (like branch) may be locked by the system. If you must change the branch, the usual options are:
- Reschedule (if the portal allows changing location with the reschedule), or
- Create a new appointment at the correct branch (your previous paid transaction may not be refundable—decide before paying).

Practical tip: Pick a branch you can revisit in case of a HIT or if same-day release isn’t possible.

2) You already did biometrics at Branch A and are waiting for release

Default expectation: Claim at Branch A.
Cross-branch claiming (e.g., you moved cities) is not walk-in. If truly necessary, request a branch transfer through the NBI helpdesk or the branch where you applied. Approval is discretionary.

What to prepare for a transfer request

A short written request (see template below) explaining the reason.
ARN, payment proof/OR (if any), and government-issued ID.
The new branch you’re asking for.
Be ready for processing time and the possibility you’ll be told to return to Branch A.

3) You got a HIT

You’ll be instructed to return for verification (and then releasing) at the same branch that captured your biometrics.
If you can’t return, ask about a transfer; approval depends on operations and your circumstances.

4) Renewal with delivery / quick renewal

When using an official delivery/quick-renewal channel that doesn’t require appearance, the clearance is sent to your address—no branch claiming involved.
If the courier misses you, follow the courier’s re-delivery rules (these are not the same as cross-branch claiming).

Can someone else claim for you?

If further verification is required: No. You must appear personally.
If the clearance has already been printed and only pickup remains: Some sites may release to a representative carrying an authorization letter, your valid ID photocopy, and their own ID. Others may insist on personal pickup citing data privacy. Expect site-level discretion.

Reprints, unclaimed, or lost clearances

Reprints are often possible at the issuing branch, subject to identity checks and fees.
Unclaimed printed clearances are typically kept only for a limited time (branch policy).
If you lost a printed copy and need a fresh one at a different city, be prepared to:
1. Request a reprint at the original branch or
2. Apply anew at your current location (faster, but you’ll pay again).

What to bring when claiming

Valid government ID (original).
ARN and any payment receipt.
If represented: Signed authorization letter, your ID photocopy, and the representative’s ID (only if your branch allows representative pickup).

Frequently asked “can I…?” questions

Can I walk into Branch B to claim what I processed in Branch A? Generally no. Without prior approval, Branch B won’t print/release a transaction that Branch A owns.

My schedule changed and I can’t return to Branch A. What now? Ask Branch A (or the helpdesk) for a transfer of releasing to Branch B. Have your ARN, a clear reason, and be flexible on timing.

I booked the wrong branch by mistake. If you haven’t paid or the system still allows it, rebook. After payment, branch changes are limited; you may need to create a new appointment at the correct branch.

I got a HIT—can Branch B handle the verification? Usually no unless a formal transfer is approved. HIT verification is linked to the branch that did your biometrics.

Model “Request to Claim at a Different Branch” (you can adapt this)

Subject: Request to Transfer Releasing / Printing of NBI Clearance

To: NBI Clearance [Branch A] / NBI Helpdesk
ARN: [Your ARN]
Name: [Complete Name], DOB: [YYYY-MM-DD]

I completed biometrics at NBI [Branch A] on [Date]. Due to [state reason: relocation, medical, urgent work assignment], I respectfully request that my releasing/printing be transferred to NBI [Branch B].

I acknowledge that branch transfers are subject to approval and processing times. I am enclosing copies of my valid ID and payment receipt.

Thank you for your consideration.

[Full name, mobile number, email]

Good practices to avoid headaches

Choose a branch you can return to within a week or two, in case of HIT or delays.
Arrive early on your release day to avoid queue caps.
Keep your ARN and receipts until you have the printed clearance in hand.
If you must switch branches, coordinate first—don’t gamble on walk-in cross-branch release.
For future renewals where eligible, consider official delivery so you won’t need to claim at a site.

Bottom line

Claiming at a different branch is not the default. It requires prior coordination and approval, and may be denied based on operational constraints.
When in doubt, talk to the branch that processed your biometrics (reference your ARN) and request guidance on a branch transfer.

Procedures change from time to time. For final, current rules, check your NBI Clearance online account or contact the branch/helpdesk listed in your appointment confirmation.