NBI Clearance Requirements for All Applicants
NBI clearance in the Philippines is a document issued by the Philippine Government, specifically by the NBI. NBI Clearance is an official document that proves your identity, background, and character. It is commonly required for employment applications, visa processing, and other legal or professional purposes to verify your identity and history. As such, it is often necessary to be able to obtain an NBI clearance.
The NBI Clearance requirements for various applicant types are explained in this guide, including walk-in applicants and Foreign Nationals applying. Each of the three sections details the necessary documents and how to apply for each type of NBI clearance. The purpose of this guide is to provide you with information so that you can avoid making mistakes or delays when applying for your NBI clearance. You can effectively prepare your NBI clearance application by utilizing the correct requirement options.
NBI Clearance Requirements
Before applying for an NBI Clearance, individuals should prepare the documents needed by the NBI. Preparing these documents will help prevent any delays in the application processing.
Identification Documents
To verify their identity, applicants are required to submit at least one form of identification that is acceptable and valid.
Primary IDs
Secondary IDs
Application Form
To apply for an NBI Clearance, an applicant must first complete (online or directly at the NBI Office) an application form. The applicant must always use the official NBI website to fill out their application form online.
Reference Number
The NBI Clearance Requirements include a valid Reference Number. This number is required as proof of successful registration and payment for the NBI Clearance appointment and must be shown at the time of the appointment.
Payment
Applicants must pay for their NBI clearance through an authorized payment means. The most common types of payment methods are given below:
Recent Passport-Size Photo
A clear and current colour passport-size image is typically required. This image will be used for official identification and, therefore, must conform to the requirements set forth by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).
Biometrics and Photo Capture
Upon finishing the online application for an NBI Clearance, applicants must physically go to a designated NBI office location for completion of their Registration by:
Appointment Confirmation
After completing the application process, applicants will receive an appointment confirmation via email. The appointment confirmation email must be shown when presenting for the appointment verification process and Biometric support requirements. You can book an appointment with the help of our step by step NBI appointment online Guide.
NBI Clearance Requirements for Walk-In Applicants
Applicants who choose the walk-in option should prepare the following things:
Specific Requirements for Certain Applicants
The following are the NBI Clearance requirements for first-time and renewal applicants.
First-Time Applicants
First-time applicants typically need an original, valid government-issued photo ID and a completed NBI Application form. These documents confirm your identity and begin your NBI Clearance application process.
Renewal Applicants
Renewal applicants will need to present their previous/expired NBI Clearance for reference and verification of records. These time-saving measures allow you to renew your NBI Clearance with greater ease and efficiency.
You can get your NBI Clearance Renewal online through our complete Guide.
Foreign Nationals
Foreign Nationals should submit a valid passport as verification of identity and must also present proof of residency within the Philippines. For example: a current utility bill or similar documentation.
NBI Clearance Requirements for Different Categories
The documents required may vary depending on the purpose of the application. Some of them are given below:
| Requirement | Employment | Travel | Adoption | Business | Licenses | Scholarship | Minors |
| Valid ID | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Birth Certificate | No | No | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Application Form | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Biometric Capture | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Payment Receipt | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Passport-Size Photo | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Employer Letter | Yes | No | No | No | No | No | No |
| Travel Documents | No | Yes | No | No | No | No | No |
| Adoption Papers | No | No | Yes | No | No | No | No |
| Business Registration | No | No | No | Yes | No | No | No |
| LicenseDocuments | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | No |
NBI Required Documents by Applicant Type
|
Applicant Type |
Required Documents |
|
First-Time Applicant |
Two valid government-issued IDs, an appointment form, and a recent photo |
|
First-Time Job Seeker |
Two valid IDs, PSA birth certificate, barangay certification, and printed application |
|
Renewal Applicant |
Previous NBI clearance (if available), valid ID, and appointment confirmation |
|
Lost Clearance |
Valid ID, online registration, appointment form, and optional photocopy of old cert |
|
Overseas Applicant |
NBI Form No. 5, photos, passport photocopy, fingerprint form, authorisation letter |
Once your documents are ready, check the NBI Open Today Schedule to know the official office hours and avoid unnecessary trips. For more info you can visit NBI official website through button below.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use a Barangay ID or Barangay Clearance for my NBI clearance?
No. Only two valid government-issued IDs are accepted. Barangay documents are not valid for identity verification.
Q2: What happens if I forget my appointment date?
You must reschedule through the NBI Appointment Page. Missed appointments are not automatically rebooked.
Q3: Is it possible to update my details in the NBI database?
Yes, but only in person. Bring supporting documents (e.g., marriage certificate for name change).
Q4: Do I need to go to the main NBI office in Manila?
No. You can choose from regional and satellite branches during online appointment booking.
Q5: How long is the NBI clearance valid?
Typically, 6 months to 1 year, depending on the purpose (employment, travel, etc.).
How Do I Apply for My NBI Clearance from Outside the Philippines?
You may apply for your NBI Clearance online through the NBI website by selecting Overseas Applicant. Fingerprints are collected at a Philippine Consulate and forwarded to the NBI.
What Are The NBI Requirements?
Anyone can apply for an NBI Clearance. There are no unique requirements that must be met; all eligible Filipinos, as well as foreign nationals who possess the proper documentation, are eligible to apply.
Why Do You Need an NBI Clearance?
An NBI Clearance may serve as proof of your identity and background. NBI Clearance will be required for employment, visa applications, and other legal requirements.
Can I Get an NBI Clearance on the Weekend?
Most NBI offices only operate during normal business hours. Your branch may or may not offer services on Saturdays and Sundays.
Conclusion
Preparing all required documentation ahead of time can simplify applying for your NBI Clearance. Regardless of whether you are applying for employment, travel, or legal purposes, it is important to have all your documents ready beforehand. This preparation helps ensure a smooth and timely application process. By keeping any changes to the current NBI Clearance Requirements, applicants can ensure that they will not experience delays when processing applications.
