Updated NBI Clearance Requirements 2025: Guide for All Applicants

The NBI Clearance is a key document in the Philippines. It shows that a person has no criminal record. This guide explains everything you need to know about applying for an NBI clearance. It covers all the requirements, situations, and outcomes. It aims to help every applicant succeed, regardless of their circumstances.

Common NBI Clearance Requirements

To get an NBI Clearance, applicants need to follow some simple steps and submit key documents. These standard requirements apply to everyone, regardless of their circumstances. This guide will discuss specific cases and extra requirements later.

Valid Identification Documents

The NBI asks all applicants to show at least two valid government IDs for identity checks. Acceptable IDs include:

• Philippine Passport
• Driver’s License
• PRC License
• SSS or GSIS UMID Card
• Voter’s ID or Certificate
• PhilHealth ID
• Postal ID
• TIN ID
• PSA-authenticated Birth Certificate (original copy)

Note: Barangay Clearances and non-government-issued IDs are not accepted. Your IDs prove who you are. You need them to claim your NBI Clearance certificate.

Application Process Requirements

Also, to provide valid identification, applicants must meet the following standard requirements:

• Complete online registration via the official NBI Appointment Portal.
• Set an appointment at your preferred NBI branch.
• Pay the applicable processing fee.
• Appear in person for biometric data capture (photo and fingerprints).
• Provide a recent passport-sized photo with a white background.

These are the basic steps every applicant must follow. You might need to submit extra documents based on your situation. We’ll discuss those in the next sections.

Special NBI Application Categories

The NBI has set different requirements for each type of applicant. These depend on their unique situations and needs.

First-Time Applicants

If you’re applying for NBI clearance for the first time, do this:

• Register for an account on the NBI Clearance Online Portal.
• Complete the application form with accurate personal details.
• Schedule an appointment at your chosen NBI branch.
• Pay the processing fee (PHP 130 + PHP 25 service charge).
• Appear in person for biometric data capture (photo and fingerprints).
• Present at least two valid government-issued IDs.

First-time applicants should check their personal information. This helps to avoid mistakes that could slow down or complicate verification.

First-Time Job Seekers (Fee Waiver)

Under Republic Act 11261 (First-Time Job Seekers Assistance Act), first-time job seekers can get an NBI clearance for free. They need to meet specific criteria:

• Must be a Filipino citizen applying for employment for the first time.
• Must be at least 18 years old at the time of application.
• Must present a barangay certification confirming first-time job seeker status.
• Must register through the designated portal: firsttimejobseekers.nbi.gov.ph

Required Documents to Avail of the Fee Waiver:

• A valid government-issued ID.
• Barangay Certification (as proof of residency and first-time job seeker status)
• PSA-issued birth certificate or a copy from the local civil registrar.
• Printed copy of the NBI Clearance online application form

This one-time benefit helps new graduates and first-time workers with their financial burdens.

Renewal Applications

If you have an NBI Clearance from 2014 or later, renewing it is quicker and easier. Here’s how to renew your clearance:

1. Click the button below to access the NBI Clearance Online Renewal page.
2. Fill out the online form to verify your eligibility.
3. Upload a copy of your previous NBI clearance.
4. Schedule your appointment (if applicable).
5. Pay the required renewal fee.

Renewal Options & Fees

Quick Renewal (No personal appearance required):

• Basic renewal fee: ₱330–₱350
• E-payment service charge: ₱25–₱30
• Total (including delivery): ₱355–₱510

Regular Renewal (With personal appearance):

• Processing fee: ₱130
• E-payment system fee: ₱30
• Total cost: ₱160

Accepted Payment Methods

• GCash, Maya
• Online and over-the-counter banking
• Bayad Center, ECPay
• 7-Eleven, LBC, Cebuana Lhuillier, and other partner outlets

Renewing is usually faster. Most of your details are already in the NBI system. This cuts down on verification time.

Lost NBI Clearance Replacement

If you lost or damaged your NBI clearance, you can get a replacement by following these steps:

1. Sign up on the NBI Clearance Online Portal. Select “Replacement of Lost Clearance” for the purpose.
2. Pay the standard processing fee (the same as a new application).
3. Schedule an appointment at your preferred NBI branch.
4. Bring at least one valid government-issued ID.
5. (Optional but recommended) File a police blotter report to document the loss.
6. If available, submit a photocopy of the lost NBI clearance for faster verification.

The replacement process is like a first-time application. But if your records are in the system, it may be faster.

Applications from Abroad

Filipino citizens abroad need to take specific steps to apply for an NBI clearance.

Requirements for Overseas Applicants

Filipinos living overseas can apply for an NBI clearance. To do this, they need to prepare these documents:

• NBI Form No. 5 is available at the nearest Philippine Embassy or consular office.
• Two (2) recent 2×2 color ID photos with a white background (taken within the last 3 months).
• You must provide photocopies of a valid passport and any government-issued ID.
• Rolled fingerprint impressions were taken at the embassy or a local police station.
• An authorization letter for a representative in the Philippines.

Application Methods:

1. Direct Mailing to NBI (Manila):
   • Send the documents to the NBI Mailed Clearance Section.
   • Include payment of ₱200 (₱130 for clearance + ₱70 mailing fee).
2. Through an authorized representative in the Philippines:
   • Your representative submits the documents directly to the NBI main office.

For Overseas Renewal Applicants:

If your NBI Clearance was issued from 2014 onward, you can simply send:

• A copy of your old clearance.
• A recent 2×2 photo.
• Passport photocopy
• Authorization letter

Your representative in the Philippines can then process the renewal on your behalf.

NBI Clearance “Hit” Status Explained

You might get a “hit” status when applying for your NBI clearance. This happens often and needs more verification.

What is a “Hit” Status?

A hit occurs when your name is like someone with a criminal record in the NBI database. This doesn’t mean you have a record. It just starts a detailed review to confirm your identity.

What Happens When You Get a Hit?

• Your NBI clearance will not be released immediately.
• You’ll be given a return date, usually within 5–10 working days.
• NBI staff will check your background. They want to see if the record is yours or if it belongs to someone else with a similar name.

How to Resolve a Hit Status

To resolve the issue and proceed with your clearance, you must:

1. Return to the NBI branch on the assigned date.
2. Bring at least two valid government-issued IDs.
3. Wear proper attire (no slippers, sleeveless shirts, or shorts).
4. Undergo a Quality Control Interview with an NBI officer.
5. If the hit is due to a namesake, complete an Affidavit of Denial and take an oath before a resident lawyer.
6. If the record is yours and it’s resolved, please share court documents. They should show the case was dismissed, resolved, or settled.

Final Outcome

• If the hit is from a namesake, you will be cleared and your NBI Clearance will be released.
• If the hit relates to a resolved case, your clearance will show that the case is settled or dismissed. There will be no active legal issues.

Payment Methods

The cost of getting an NBI clearance varies by applicant category and purpose. Here’s a breakdown of available payment options and fee waivers:

Available Payment Options

The NBI provides multiple convenient payment channels, including:

• Online banking
• Mobile wallets (GCash, Maya, etc.)
• Bayad Centers
• Over-the-counter payments at partner banks
• Payment kiosks and branches such as 7-Eleven, LBC, Cebuana Lhuillier, and others

Important: Always keep your payment receipt or reference number. You’ll need it for your appointment or when checking your clearance.

Fee Waiver for First-Time Job Seekers

Under Republic Act 11261 (First-Time Job Seekers Help Act), eligible applicants don’t have to pay the basic clearance fee of ₱130. They still need to pay the ₱25 service fee. This fee may change slightly based on the payment method.

This benefit is a one-time offer aimed at easing the employment process for new job seekers.

NBI Clearance Issuance Process

After you finish the application and verification, they give the NBI clearance based on your record-check results.

Standard Issuance

For applicants with no complications or name matches (“hits”):

• Clearance is usually released on the same day as your appointment.
• The document comes with built-in security features to prevent tampering or forgery.
• Validity ranges from 6 months to 1 year, depending on your stated purpose (e.g., employment, travel).

If you receive a “Hit”

When your name matches an entry in the NBI database:

• Clearance issuance is temporarily delayed for further background verification
• If the match is proven to be a namesake, a clean clearance is issued once confirmed
• If you settled past legal cases, your clearance may show a note about the case and how it was resolved.

The final document shows if you have any pending criminal records. It also certifies your legal status.

Conclusion

Getting an NBI clearance varies by situation, but the process is now easier. The online registration and appointment system helps a lot.

Standard applicants must:

• Provide two valid IDs
• Register online
• Pay the fee
• Appear for biometrics

Other groups, like first-time job seekers and overseas applicants, need to follow extra steps. They also must provide more paperwork, especially if they are replacing lost documents.

If you encounter a “hit” status, there’s no need to panic. This is usually the result of name similarities in the NBI database rather than actual criminal records. By cooperating with the verification process, most cases are resolved smoothly and without issues.

To have a smooth NBI clearance application or renewal, stay informed and follow the right steps.