The NBI Clearance is an official document issued by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) in the Philippines that certifies an individual has no criminal record or pending cases in the country. This document serves as a critical requirement for various transactions, including pre-employment background checks, passport applications, business registrations, professional licensing, visa applications abroad, and NBI Clearance renewal.
The clearance is valid for one (1) year from the date of issuance, after which holders must undergo renewal to maintain its validity for continued use in employment, travel, or legal transactions.
Eligibility for Online Renewal
Not all applicants can renew their NBI Clearance online. The NBI has established specific criteria to determine eligibility for the streamlined renewal process:
Eligible for Online Renewal:
- Applicants whose previous NBI Clearance was issued in 2014 or later
- Individuals with no changes to personal data (name, date of birth, place of birth, or civil status)
- Those with clear records (no “Hit” status requiring further verification)
Required to Apply In-Person:
- Applicants with clearances issued before 2014 (treated as new applications)
- Individuals who need to update personal information such as name changes, corrections to birth details, or civil status changes
- Those whose previous clearance encountered a “Hit” requiring additional verification
According to the NBI, applicants who previously held clearances issued from 2014 onwards can renew online without accomplishing a new fingerprint form, provided there are no changes to their personal data.
Step-by-Step Renewal Process
Method 1: Online Renewal (Door-to-Door Delivery)
For eligible applicants, the online renewal process offers the most convenient option, allowing completion from home without visiting an NBI office.
Step 1: Access the Official Portal
Visit the official NBI Clearance website. Log in to your existing account or register if you are a new user.
Step 2: Select Renewal Option
Choose the “Renew Old Clearance” or “NBI Clearance Online Renewal” button on the dashboard.
Step 3: Enter Previous Clearance Details
Input your old NBI ID number exactly as shown on your previous certificate. The system will retrieve your stored information.
Step 4: Verify Personal Information
Review all pre-populated details carefully. Update only if necessary, though significant changes may require in-person application.
Step 5: Choose Delivery Method
Select between door-to-door delivery or personal pick-up at an NBI branch. Door-to-door delivery adds convenience but incurs additional fees.
Step 6: Complete Payment
The renewal fee totals PHP 355, comprising PHP 330 for the clearance and PHP 25 as a service charge. Available payment methods include:
- GCash
- PayMaya/Maya
- Online banking (BPI, UnionBank)
- 7-Eleven (Cliqq)
- Bayad Center
- ECPay
Step 7: Wait for Processing
For applicants without issues, the renewed clearance typically arrives within 5 to 10 business days.
Method 2: In-Person Renewal
Applicants with changed personal data or those preferring traditional processing must visit an NBI office.
Step 1: Online Appointment Booking
All in-person applications require prior appointment scheduling through https://clearance.nbi.gov.ph. Walk-in applications are not accepted.
Step 2: Complete Online Registration
- Create an account or log in
- Fill out the application form with personal details
- Select your purpose (employment, travel, business, etc.)
- Choose your preferred NBI branch, date, and time
Step 3: Payment
Pay the standard fee of PHP 155 (PHP 130 clearance fee + PHP 25 system fee) through available payment channels.
Step 4: Prepare Required Documents
Before your appointment, gather:
- Printed application form with reference number
- Two (2) valid government-issued IDs
- Payment receipt
- Old NBI Clearance (if renewing)
Step 5: Personal Appearance
On your scheduled date:
- Arrive early at your selected NBI branch
- Present documents at the verification desk
- Proceed to biometrics section for photo, fingerprints, and digital signature capture
- Dress appropriately (semi-formal or smart casual; tank tops, sleeveless shirts, shorts, and slippers are prohibited)
Step 6: Clearance Release
If no “Hit” is encountered, receive your clearance on the same day. Otherwise, return after 8-10 working days for verification results.
Fee Structure
| Purpose | Clearance Fee | Service Fee | Total Fee |
| New Application (Employment, Travel, Business) | PHP 130 | PHP 25 | PHP 155 |
| Renewal with Door-to-Door Delivery | PHP 330 | PHP 25 | PHP 355 |
| First-Time Job Seekers | FREE | FREE | FREE |
First-time job seekers are exempted from fees under Republic Act No. 11261, but must present a Barangay Certificate as proof of status.
Understanding “Hit” Status
A “Hit” occurs when an applicant’s name matches or resembles a record in the NBI database of individuals with criminal cases or pending legal matters. This is not an accusation of guilt but triggers additional verification procedures.
What Happens When You Get a Hit:
- The system flags your application for manual review
- NBI personnel verify whether you are the same person in their records
- Processing extends to 8-10 working days or longer depending on complexity
- You may need to return to the office for additional documentation
- Bring supporting documents (birth certificate, marriage certificate, additional IDs) to prove identity
Important: There is no additional fee for Hit processing, though applicants choosing door-to-door delivery to avoid return visits will pay extra for shipping.
Special Cases and Considerations
Renewal from Abroad
Filipinos residing overseas can renew their NBI Clearance through specific procedures:
For Clearances Issued 2014 Onwards (No Data Changes):
- Complete online renewal at clearance.nbi.gov.ph
- Select international delivery option
- Pay using international payment methods
For Clearances Issued Before 2014 or With Data Changes:
- Download and accomplish NBI Form No. 5 (Fingerprint Card)
- Have fingerprints taken by local police or authorized agency
- Submit form to Philippine Embassy/Consulate for authentication
- Send authenticated form to NBI Manila Mailed Clearance Section
Mailed Clearance Address:
National Bureau of Investigation
MAILED CLEARANCE Section
3rd Floor, NBI Clearance Building
UN Avenue, Ermita, Manila, Philippines 1000
Include PHP 200 (PHP 130 clearance fee + PHP 70 mailing cost) or US Dollar equivalent.
Lost or Damaged Clearances
The NBI does not reissue lost clearances. Applicants must apply for a new clearance following the standard application process and paying the full fee.
Missed Appointments
If you miss your scheduled appointment:
- Unpaid appointments: Automatically cancelled; reschedule required
- Paid appointments: 15-day grace period to visit the NBI branch before forfeiture
- Refunds are rarely granted; contact NBI helpdesk for exceptional circumstances
Valid IDs Accepted
The NBI requires two valid government-issued IDs for in-person transactions. Accepted IDs include:
- Philippine Passport
- Driver’s License
- National ID (PhilSys)
- Unified Multi-Purpose ID (UMID)
- TIN ID
- PRC License
- PhilHealth ID
- PAG-IBIG ID
- Postal ID
- Voter’s ID
- PWD ID
- Senior Citizen ID
- Solo Parent ID
- OFW ID
- PSA-Issued Birth Certificate (if no primary ID available)
Critical Reminder: Ensure your IDs are not expired, as the NBI strictly enforces validity requirements.
Tips for Smooth Processing
- Book Early: Appointment slots fill quickly, especially at popular branches. Check frequently for cancellations or newly opened slots.
- Double-Check Information: Verify that all entered details match your valid IDs exactly to avoid rejection or delays.
- Secure Payment Confirmation: Always save payment receipts and reference numbers until clearance is received.
- Arrive Prepared: Bring all required documents and arrive early on your appointment date to complete processing efficiently.
- Track Validity: Monitor your clearance expiration date and renew before it lapses to avoid gaps in documentation for employment or travel requirements.
- Dress Appropriately: NBI offices enforce dress codes; business casual attire ensures entry without issues.
Conclusion
The NBI Clearance renewal process has evolved significantly with the implementation of online systems, offering eligible applicants the convenience of door-to-door delivery without visiting physical offices. However, understanding the specific requirements, fee structures, and eligibility criteria remains essential for successful renewal.
Whether renewing online or in-person, ensuring accurate personal information, preparing valid documentation, and following official procedures will facilitate efficient processing. For the most current information, always refer to the official NBI website at clearance.nbi.gov.ph or contact NBI directly through their official channels.