An NBI Clearance is one of the most commonly requested documents in the Philippines for employment, visas, travel, local government transactions, business requirements, and other legal or administrative purposes. It certifies whether the National Bureau of Investigation has found a criminal record connected to your name and identifying details. The process is mostly online now, but you still need to appear personally for biometrics unless you are using a valid renewal process or applying from abroad. This guide explains who needs an NBI Clearance, the legal basis, current requirements, fees, step-by-step application process, what a “HIT” means, and practical tips to avoid delays.

What Is an NBI Clearance?

An NBI Clearance is an official certificate issued by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) under the Department of Justice. It is not the same as a police clearance. A police clearance usually checks records within a local police jurisdiction, while an NBI Clearance is based on the NBI’s national criminal records and identification system.

The NBI’s legal authority comes from Republic Act No. 157 of 1947, which created the Bureau of Investigation and authorized it to act as a national clearinghouse of criminal and other information for law enforcement and prosecutorial use. Later, Republic Act No. 10867 of 2016, the National Bureau of Investigation Reorganization and Modernization Act, modernized the NBI and expressly confirmed that one of its powers is to act as a national clearinghouse of criminal records and related information. (Lawphil)

In practical terms, employers, embassies, licensing bodies, and government agencies ask for an NBI Clearance because it helps verify whether the applicant has a derogatory record, pending issue, or name match in the NBI database.

Who Can Apply for an NBI Clearance?

The NBI Citizens Charter states that the service is available to the general public, including people seeking employment locally or abroad, OFWs, and tourists. (National Bureau of Investigation)

Common applicants include:

Filipino job applicants
First-time jobseekers
OFWs and seafarers
Filipinos applying for visas, immigration benefits, or foreign residency
Foreign nationals who lived or worked in the Philippines
Professionals applying for licenses, permits, or government accreditation
Business owners asked to submit clearance for compliance purposes
Applicants abroad who need Philippine criminal record clearance

Foreigners may apply, but the process can involve additional practical issues, especially if they no longer live in the Philippines. If applying from abroad, the NBI requires use of NBI Form No. 5, fingerprinting, passport identification, and submission through mail or an authorized representative to the NBI Mailed Clearance Section in Manila. (National Bureau of Investigation)

Legal Basis and Important Rights

NBI’s authority to maintain criminal records

Under RA 157, the NBI was authorized to investigate crimes, assist in crime detection, act as a national clearinghouse of criminal information, and maintain identification records. (Lawphil) RA 10867 later modernized the NBI and confirmed its power to act as a national clearinghouse of criminal records and related information for government use. (Supreme Court E-Library)

This is why the NBI Clearance process involves identity verification, fingerprints, photographs, signatures, and database checking.

Data privacy protection

Because the NBI collects sensitive personal information, including biometrics, its processing is covered by the Data Privacy Act of 2012, or Republic Act No. 10173. The NBI website shows that the agency has complied with National Privacy Commission registration requirements under the Data Privacy Act and related issuances. (National Bureau of Investigation)

As an applicant, you should use only official channels, avoid giving your login details to fixers, and keep your reference number and personal data secure.

Free NBI Clearance for qualified first-time jobseekers

Under Republic Act No. 11261 of 2019, also known as the First Time Jobseekers Assistance Act, qualified first-time jobseekers may obtain government documents required for employment without paying the usual government fees. The law requires a barangay certification stating that the applicant is a first-time jobseeker, and it warns that fabrication or falsification may lead to liability under the Revised Penal Code. (Lawphil)

For NBI Clearance, the NBI’s first-time jobseeker process requires a barangay certification with official letterhead, dry seal, and signature of the Punong Barangay or authorized barangay officer, plus two valid government-issued IDs or acceptable certificates. (National Bureau of Investigation)

NBI Clearance Requirements

For ordinary applicants in the Philippines, prepare the following before your appointment:

Requirement	Practical Notes
Online application account	Register through the official NBI Clearance portal linked from the NBI website.
Reference number	Generated after applying online or through the NBI registration counter.
Two valid government-issued IDs	Bring originals. The NBI Citizens Charter requires two valid government-issued IDs. (National Bureau of Investigation)
Payment receipt or proof of payment	Needed if you paid through an e-payment channel.
Personal appearance	Required for photo, fingerprints, and signature unless using a qualified renewal route.
Old NBI Clearance, if renewing	Useful especially for renewals from 2014 onward.

Acceptable IDs listed by the NBI

The NBI Citizens Charter lists the following as acceptable IDs or certificates:

UMID issued by SSS or GSIS
Passport
PhilHealth ID
Voter’s ID or Certificate of Registration
BIR TIN
PRC License
LTO Driver’s License
Pag-IBIG ID, but not the Loyalty Card
Postal ID
PSA/NSO authenticated birth certificate
Certification from Malacañang for Indigenous Groups, Tribal Membership, or Foundling
Solo Parent ID
PNP Clearance issued by the police station where the applicant resides
Seaman’s Book
School ID together with current registration card
Senior Citizen ID or PWD ID
MARINA ID
Security License ID for security guards (National Bureau of Investigation)

Bring IDs that clearly show your complete name, photo, birthdate, and signature where possible. If your name differs across IDs, fix that issue before applying or bring supporting documents such as a PSA birth certificate or marriage certificate.

How Much Is an NBI Clearance?

The NBI Citizens Charter lists the clearance fee as ₱130.00 for applications paid at the NBI payment counter. (National Bureau of Investigation) If you use online or third-party payment channels, expect an additional service or convenience fee shown by the payment provider before payment.

Qualified first-time jobseekers under RA 11261 may obtain the clearance free of charge, provided they comply with the NBI’s first-time jobseeker requirements. The NBI Citizens Charter for first-time jobseekers expressly states that the fee is free of charge. (National Bureau of Investigation)

Applicant Type	Government Fee	Notes
Regular applicant	₱130.00	Additional payment channel fees may apply.
Renewal applicant	₱130.00	Additional payment or delivery fees may apply depending on chosen service.
Qualified first-time jobseeker	Free	Requires barangay certification and supporting documents.
Applicant abroad using mailed clearance	₱200.00	NBI states this covers ₱130 clearance fee plus ₱70 mailing cost. (National Bureau of Investigation)

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Get an NBI Clearance in the Philippines

1. Create an online account

Go to the official NBI Clearance online portal linked from the NBI website. The NBI home page links to the official clearance application and renewal website. (National Bureau of Investigation)

Complete name
Birthdate
Birthplace
Gender
Civil status
Address
Mobile number
Email address

Use the name that appears in your valid IDs and PSA records. Do not abbreviate or invent spellings.

2. Fill out the application form

Enter your personal details carefully. Many “HIT” and release problems come from inconsistent names, typographical errors, or mismatched birth information.

For married women, use the name format required by the system and consistent with your IDs. If your IDs still show your maiden name but you are applying under your married name, bring your PSA marriage certificate.

3. Choose the purpose of your clearance

Select the purpose that best matches your need, such as:

Local employment
Travel abroad
Visa application
Seaman’s book
Business requirement
Government requirement
Immigration or residency application

The selected purpose may appear on the clearance, so choose carefully.

4. Select your preferred NBI branch and appointment schedule

Choose the NBI Clearance Center, regional office, district office, or satellite center most convenient for you. Slots vary by branch. Busy branches in Metro Manila and major cities may have longer lines, especially during peak employment seasons, school graduation periods, and early mornings.

5. Pay the fee or prepare first-time jobseeker documents

If paying online, save the reference number and proof of payment. If paying at the NBI payment counter, bring your reference number and valid ID.

If you are a qualified first-time jobseeker, prepare:

Barangay certification on official letterhead
Dry seal and signature of the Punong Barangay or authorized barangay officer
Two valid government-issued IDs or acceptable certificates
Your online application/reference number, if already registered

The NBI first-time jobseeker lane is specifically reflected in the agency’s process. (National Bureau of Investigation)

6. Go to your appointment

Arrive early. Bring:

Two original valid IDs
Reference number
Payment receipt or proof of e-payment
Old NBI Clearance, if renewing
Supporting civil registry documents if your name has changed
Barangay certification if applying as a first-time jobseeker

Dress neatly because your photo will be captured. Avoid wearing caps, sunglasses, or anything that may interfere with identity verification.

7. Complete biometrics

At the branch, NBI personnel will capture your:

Photograph
Fingerprints
Signature

The NBI Citizens Charter says biometric capture is part of the application process. (National Bureau of Investigation)

8. Wait for verification

After biometrics, the NBI checks your information against its criminal database.

There are two common outcomes:

Result	Meaning	What Happens Next
No HIT	No name match or record issue appears in the system.	Clearance is usually printed and released the same day.
With HIT	Your name or identifying details match or resemble a record in the NBI database.	You will be asked to return on a scheduled release date or undergo further verification.

The NBI Citizens Charter expressly states that if there is “No Hit,” the applicant proceeds to printing; if there is “WITH Hit,” the applicant returns on the scheduled date; and if marked “For Quality Control,” the applicant proceeds to interview and verification. (National Bureau of Investigation)

What Does “HIT” Mean in NBI Clearance?

A HIT does not automatically mean you have a criminal case. It often means your name is similar to someone in the NBI database.

For example, if your name is common—such as “Juan Santos,” “Maria Cruz,” “John Michael Reyes,” or “Mohammad Ali”—the system may need manual verification.

A HIT may be caused by:

Same or similar name as a person with a record
Pending criminal case associated with a similar identity
Old dismissed case needing record clarification
Incomplete or inconsistent personal details
Quality control review
Actual derogatory record

If you get a HIT, stay calm and follow the release instructions. The NBI may ask you to return after several working days. If the matter goes to Quality Control, answer questions truthfully and bring documents that help distinguish you from another person, such as PSA birth certificate, valid IDs, court dismissal orders, or proof of identity.

How Long Does It Take to Get an NBI Clearance?

The official NBI Citizens Charter gives very short internal processing times once the applicant is already at the proper counter and there is no complicated issue. For example, it lists a total minimum processing time of around 2 minutes and 15 seconds for online applications with e-payment, and around 3 minutes for online applications without e-payment, excluding real-world waiting time and queueing. (National Bureau of Investigation)

In real life, your total time depends on:

Branch crowding
Whether you already paid
Whether your IDs are accepted
Whether the online portal is working smoothly
Whether you receive a HIT
Whether Quality Control requires interview
Whether you are applying from abroad

Practical expectations:

Situation	Typical Practical Timeline
No HIT, complete documents	Same-day release is common.
With HIT	Often several working days, depending on the branch and verification.
Quality Control	May require interview and additional documents.
Applicant abroad	NBI states mailed clearance processing may take up to five working days upon receipt of complete documents, not counting international mailing time. (National Bureau of Investigation)

How to Renew an NBI Clearance

Renewal is usually easier if your previous NBI Clearance was issued from 2014 onward, because the NBI has digital records from that period. For mailed clearance, the NBI states that only clearances issued starting 2014 may be renewed by mail or through a representative; clearances issued before 2014 are treated as new applications. (National Bureau of Investigation)

You may still need to update your information if you changed:

Name
Civil status
Address
Birth details
Nationality status
Other personal data

If your name changed due to marriage, annulment, recognition, adoption, or correction of entry, bring the proper PSA or court documents.

How to Get an NBI Clearance if You Are Abroad

Applicants abroad generally use NBI Form No. 5. The NBI’s mailed clearance procedure says new applicants abroad must secure the form from the Philippine Embassy or Consular Office, ensure it bears the consular seal, fill it out properly, and have fingerprints taken through the Philippine Embassy, Consular Office, or nearest police station. The fingerprinting officer must indicate their name, signature, designation, and office seal. (National Bureau of Investigation)

Basic process for applicants abroad

Secure NBI Form No. 5 from the Philippine Embassy, Consulate, or through an authorized representative.
Fill out the form carefully with no erasures.
Attach a recent 2x2 photo with white background.
Attach a photocopy of the biodata page of your valid passport.
Have fingerprints taken with rolled impressions.
Send the documents by mail or through an authorized representative.
Pay the required mailed clearance amount.
Wait for processing and mailing.

The NBI states that all clearance applications coming from abroad are processed only at the NBI Main Office, through the Mailed Clearance Section in Manila. (National Bureau of Investigation)

If using a representative in the Philippines

Your representative should have:

Authorization letter or Special Power of Attorney, depending on the situation
Copy of your passport biodata page
Their own valid ID
Your completed NBI Form No. 5
Required photos and payment
Online registration/reference number, if required by the current process

For foreign use, ask the receiving country or agency whether they require DFA apostille or additional authentication after the NBI Clearance is issued.

Common Problems and How to Avoid Them

Your name does not match your IDs

This is one of the most common causes of delay. Use the same full name across your online application and IDs. If there is a genuine difference, bring supporting documents.

Examples:

Married name vs. maiden name: bring PSA marriage certificate.
Corrected birth entry: bring annotated PSA birth certificate.
Different spelling: fix the government ID or bring proof explaining the discrepancy.

You used the wrong purpose

Some employers or embassies are strict about the purpose printed on the clearance. If you need it for overseas employment, visa, or immigration, do not simply choose local employment unless that is truly the purpose.

You forgot your reference number

Take a screenshot and write it down. Without the reference number, payment and on-site processing can become difficult.

You relied on a fixer

Avoid fixers. In January 2025, the NBI reported the arrest of fixers outside the NBI Clearance Center and employees allegedly involved in expedited clearance processing for fees ranging from ₱800 to ₱2,000, with possible violations including direct bribery under Article 210 of the Revised Penal Code, RA 3019, RA 6713, and RA 11032. (National Bureau of Investigation)

Use official counters, official payment channels, and official NBI contact points only.

You got a HIT and assumed you were denied

A HIT is not a denial. It is a verification step. Many people with common names get HITs and later receive their clearance after identity checking.

You need the clearance urgently for a visa or job start date

Apply early. Do not wait until the week of your embassy interview, deployment, onboarding, or deadline. A HIT or portal outage can disrupt your schedule. The NBI has previously announced temporary online service disruptions due to system transition, including the online clearance application portal, so it is safer to build in extra time. (National Bureau of Investigation)

NBI Clearance vs. Police Clearance

Issue	NBI Clearance	Police Clearance
Issuing office	National Bureau of Investigation	Philippine National Police or local police office
Scope	National criminal records and NBI database	Usually local or police database coverage
Common use	Employment, visa, immigration, OFW, legal compliance	Local employment, permits, barangay or city requirements
Biometrics	Yes	Usually yes
HIT system	Yes	Different verification system

Some employers ask for both. If the instruction says “NBI Clearance,” do not submit only a police clearance unless the employer or agency expressly accepts it.

Practical Checklist Before Going to the NBI

Before leaving for your appointment, check that you have:

Screenshot or printed copy of your reference number
Payment receipt, if already paid
Two original valid IDs
Extra photocopies of IDs
Old NBI Clearance, if renewing
PSA birth certificate or marriage certificate, if needed
Barangay certification, if claiming first-time jobseeker benefit
Pen and phone with battery
Enough time for queues, especially in busy branches

Frequently Asked Questions

Is NBI Clearance a valid ID?

An NBI Clearance is an official government-issued certificate, but it is generally treated as a clearance, not a primary identification card. Some private companies may accept it as supporting identification, but for the NBI application itself, you should bring the valid IDs listed in the NBI Citizens Charter.

How many valid IDs do I need for NBI Clearance?

The NBI Citizens Charter requires two valid government-issued IDs or acceptable certificates. Bring originals, not just photocopies. (National Bureau of Investigation)

Can I get my NBI Clearance on the same day?

Yes, if your documents are complete and you have No HIT, same-day release is common. If you have a HIT or are sent for Quality Control, you may need to return on a scheduled date. (National Bureau of Investigation)

What does HIT mean in NBI Clearance?

A HIT means your name or details matched or resembled a record in the NBI database. It does not automatically mean you have a criminal case. It usually means the NBI must manually verify your identity before releasing the clearance.

Is NBI Clearance free for first-time jobseekers?

Yes, if you qualify under RA 11261 and comply with the requirements. The NBI requires a barangay certification with official letterhead, dry seal, and proper signature, plus two valid government-issued IDs or acceptable certificates. (National Bureau of Investigation)

Can I apply for NBI Clearance without online registration?

The NBI Citizens Charter includes a walk-in process where applicants without online registration may proceed to NBI online registration counters, but online registration is still strongly recommended because it is faster and helps you secure a reference number before going to the branch. (National Bureau of Investigation)

Can someone else claim my NBI Clearance for me?

For ordinary local applications, personal appearance is usually required because biometrics must be captured. For applicants abroad, the NBI allows submission through mail or a designated representative under the mailed clearance process, subject to the required documents and authorization. (National Bureau of Investigation)

What if my NBI Clearance has the wrong name or wrong information?

Ask the NBI branch how to correct it immediately. Bring documents proving the correct information, such as PSA birth certificate, valid IDs, marriage certificate, or court order. Do not use a clearance with incorrect personal details for important legal, visa, or employment purposes.

Do foreigners need NBI Clearance?

Foreigners may need NBI Clearance if they worked, studied, resided, or had legal transactions in the Philippines and a foreign government, employer, or immigration authority asks for Philippine police or criminal record clearance. If abroad, they usually need to follow the mailed clearance and fingerprint card process.

Where can I contact NBI for clearance concerns?

The NBI Clearance Center is at the NBI Clearance Building, United Nations Avenue, Ermita, Manila. The NBI contact page lists clearance inquiry channels including landline (02) 8524-1277, mobile 0939 150 2880, and email nbiclearance@nbi.gov.ph. (National Bureau of Investigation)

Key Takeaways

An NBI Clearance is a national criminal record clearance issued by the NBI, commonly required for jobs, visas, immigration, and government transactions.
The NBI’s authority comes from RA 157 and RA 10867, which recognize its role in criminal investigation and national criminal records clearing.
Apply through the official NBI Clearance portal, prepare your reference number, and bring two valid government-issued IDs.
The regular NBI clearance fee listed in the Citizens Charter is ₱130.00, with possible additional service fees for payment channels.
Qualified first-time jobseekers may get the clearance for free under RA 11261, but they must present the required barangay certification and IDs.
A HIT does not automatically mean you have a criminal case; it usually means the NBI needs more time to verify your identity.
Applicants abroad must use NBI Form No. 5, fingerprinting, passport identification, and mailed or representative-based submission to the NBI Main Office.
Avoid fixers, protect your personal data, and apply early if the clearance is needed for employment, visa processing, or deployment.