Apply for an NBI Clearance
Register online, pay the fee, and attend a photo/fingerprint appointment to get your National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Clearance.
This guide is for planning and preparation. Details may change, so verify current requirements with the official sources before applying, paying fees, or submitting documents.
Review and freshness
This guide has a recorded editorial review date. Always verify final requirements, fees, forms, and appointment rules with official sources before applying.
Plain English summary
NBI Clearance starts online but finishes in person unless you qualify for renewal delivery. Register, pay with the reference number, then attend biometrics at your chosen branch.
What you need to prepare first
- NBI online account and reference number
- Two valid government IDs
- Payment confirmation from your chosen channel
What usually confuses people
- A HIT usually means a name match, not an automatic criminal record.
- You normally need to pay before going to the branch.
Estimated timeline
Same day (if no HIT) to 2 weeks (if HIT)
Estimated fees
₱130
Who this is for
Filipinos needing a nationwide criminal background check for employment, travel, or government requirements.
Location
Philippines
Eligibility
Age
Applicants generally must be 18 or older, though minors can apply for specific official purposes.
Required documents checklist
Tap each item as you gather it. This progress stays in your browser for the current page session.
Visual step flow
Scan the process before you start
Use this overview to understand the order, then track each item in the checklist below.
Register an account online
Visit the NBI Clearance website and fill in your personal details.
Schedule an appointment
Select the NBI branch, date, and time for your personal appearance.
Pay the clearance fee online
Choose a payment option (GCash, PayMaya, online banking, or over-the-counter) and pay using the reference number.
Attend the NBI appointment
Go to the NBI branch for biometrics (photo and fingerprinting) and claim your clearance.
Step-by-step instructions
Use this as a working checklist from preparation through submission.
Estimated fees
Multi-purpose Clearance
Plus an additional e-payment service fee of roughly PHP 25 to 30.
Before submitting
Avoid rejected applications and wasted trips
Check these practical points before you pay fees, attend appointments, or hand over original documents.
Before you go
- NBI online account and reference number
- Two valid government IDs
- Payment confirmation from your chosen channel
Verify final requirements with the official source before you travel or submit.
Common mistakes
- Showing up at the NBI center without paying the fee online first.
- Wearing inappropriate clothing (sleeveless shirts, shorts, slippers) to the branch.
- Assuming a 'HIT' means you have a criminal record (it often just means someone has the same name as you).
FAQ
How long is the NBI Clearance valid?
It is valid for six (6) months to one (1) year depending on the requesting agency's acceptance.
What is a 'HIT'?
A HIT simply means your name matches another person in the NBI database. A manual verification is needed to clear it.
Source and review
This guide has a recorded editorial review date. Requirements, fees, forms, and timelines can change. Use this guide as preparation support, then verify final details with the official source before submitting anything.