NBI Clearance Online Application, Requirements, & More (in 2025)

Gone are the days of standing in long lines, wasting time in waiting rooms, completing tedious paperwork, and waiting weeks just to get a new or renewed NBI Clearance online application. Now, the NBI has made the process much simpler, faster, and entirely online for the convenience of Filipinos. 

Now you can handle everything from registration and scheduling an appointment to fee payment and even booking door-to-door delivery—all from the comfort of your home.

NBI clearance proves your clean record and trustworthiness. You need it to get a new job, start a business, take a civil service exam, or travel abroad. The online process is designed to be time-saving and cost-effective. It is here to save you time, money, and stress.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through every step of the online application process—explaining the requirements, methods, and tips for new applicants, first-time job seekers, and those renewing their clearance. I have covered almost everything with images for convenience in simple steps. 

What is an NBI clearance?

NBI clearance is an important document for Filipinos. It helps them in many personal, professional, and legal matters. 

NBI clearance is an official document that confirms that you have a zero criminal record in the Philippines. It is issued by the NBI(National Bureau of Investigation) after doing a detailed background check of the applicant.

NBI has made the application process for the NBI clearance online for the convenience of the Philippines. You can apply online and get it at the selected NBI branch office. 

NBI Clearance Requirements in 2025?

NBI clearance requirements refer to the name and type of documents that you will need for the NBI clearance application process. 

Basic Requirements:

The basic requirements include;

• Internet connection
• laptop, mobile, or tablet
• Understanding of the online application process

Besides, the basic requirements, you should also need to know the documents required for the specific type of application. There are three types of application processes for their unique purpose. Each process has its prerequisites for the application process.

The three types of online application process for the NBI clearance are as follows:

1. NBI clearance for new applicants for regular or multipurpose clearance
2. NBI clearance for the first time job seeker’s applicants
3. NBI clearance renewal

The NBI clearance requirements for each type are as follows:

NBI Clearance Requirements for the New Applicants for Regular or Multipurpose Clearance:

Requirements for this type of application process are as follows:

Two valid Government Issued IDs:

You need it for identification. Make sure that the IDs should fulfill the following conditions:

• Original Valid IDs(not photocopied)
• Should be in good condition(it must show the name, photo, and signature clearly)
• Not expired

At the time of the online application process, you will be asked to select a valid ID from a list of IDs that you must present at the NBI office for identification during your visit. So choose the one that is in good condition, valid, and present with you. Also don’t forget the selected valid ID, because without it, your application will not be processed at the office.

The two valid IDs should be from the below list of IDs:

• Passport
• PRC Card
• UMID
• PSA-issued Birth Certificate
• Voter’s ID
• PhilHealth ID
• TIN ID
• Driver’s License
• Postal ID
• Senior Citizen ID
• Police Clearance
• PWD ID
• OFW ID
• National ID
• Marina ID

Note: IDs issued from non-government agencies and the barangay certificate are not accepted as valid IDs in this case. 

Printout of the Application form:

After successful registration for the NBI clearance on the NBI portal, https://clearance.nbi.gov.ph/, an applicant’s information will be displayed on the screen. The application form contains all your personal, contact details, family background details, etc. Download that form and take a printout of the applicant information form. 

Printout of the transaction slip having the reference number:

When you choose a payment option, it will be preceded by multiple popup windows. In the end, it will show you the reference number for the payment. Save that reference number copy and take a printout of it.

Printout of the fee receipt:

When you finally pay the fee. Go to the transaction history of the payment app. Download the payment receipt slip from the app. Take a printout of the fee receipt.

Additional NBI Clearance Requirements for the First-time Job Seeker’s Applicants:

Barangay Certificate:

It acts as proof that you have been a resident of the specific barangay for the last six months. It also indicates that you are a first-time job seeker and a fresh graduate under the FirstYou will need the barangay certificate when applying for the NBI clearance as a First Time Job Seeker applicant. The NBI clearance is free for such applicants. Click the link, https://phclearance.com/barangay-clearance-in-the-philippines/, to understand the application process for the barangay clearance certificate. Two Valid IDs:

NBI Clearance Online Application Renewal Requirements:

The requirements for the renewal of the NBI clearance depend on the type of delivery. If you want to get the clearance renewal at your doorstep. Then you need only the expired NBI ID number. 

However, if you want to pick up the clearance renewal by yourself. Then you will need the followingadditional documents at the office to collect the clearance ID personally:

• Two Valid IDs
• Old NBI clearance ID(in case you don’t have the ID, you can still get the clearance renewal if you have the ID number)

Online Application Process for NBI Clearance in 2025:

The NBI has formulated three methods for the online application process for the NBI clearance. It depends on what kind of applicant you are. 

 It is therefore important that you know what type of applicant you are, or what is your purpose for getting it. So that you become aware of the required documents and the online application procedure for it.

There are three types of online application processes for NBI clearance:

1.   The online application process for new applicants,
2.  Online application process for first-time job-seeking applicants,
3.  and online application for the renewal of the NBI clearance. 

Now we will learn step by step the online application process for each type. 

NBI Online Application Process for New Applicants (Step-by-Step):

Now we will learn the proper application procedure for the NBI clearance. You can follow this step-by-step method for the online application if you are any of the below types of applicants:

• New applicants and you don’t fulfil the criteria for the application of first-time job seekers.
• You are applying for the second or more times.
• You lost your ID and you don’t remember the clearance ID number. 
• You prefer this method of application due to its low fee as compared to the clearance renewal, which is costly compared to this method. 

Step 1. Access NBI Official Website (Clearance NBI Gov Ph):

For the online application for the NBI Clearance in the Phillippine, first, you need to do the online registration at the NBI website. For that, you need to access the official site of the NBI.

Here is the NBI Clearance Official Website link https://clearance.nbi.gov.ph/.

When you click this link, you will get a pop-up window on the screen.

On the top of this popup page, there are two languages, English and Tagalog. Click on the language with which you feel comfortable. Read the Data Privacy Statement for your information. Then click on the I AGREE button.

After clicking this button, You will have another two popup windows, as under.

Click on the CLOSE buttons of these two windows. You will get the home page of the NBI clearance. 

Step 2. Online Registration for the NBI Clearance Application:

When you get to the home page, there are two methods to perform the online registration process depending on your situation.

Method 1. Online NBI Registration Process(With NBI ID Number):

Follow this method, if you have your old/expired NBI clearance ID number.

If you have the old NBI number. Then, on the right side of the home page of the NBI website, there is a signup form. On the top of the form, there are two options with a box YES AND NO option. It is asking you that either did you had an NBI clearance before or if you are applying for the first time. 

If you have the expiring or the expired clearance, then click the box with theYES option. A register form will displayed on the screen.

Write the following information in the registry form:

• Write your first name and Surname
• Mobile number 
• Date of birth
• Enter your old NBI clearance ID number 

Then click the PROCEED button. 

Method 2. Online NBI Registration Process(Without NBI ID Number):

Follow this method, if you don’t have the old/expired NBI clearance ID number.

If you don’t have an old ID number and you forgot your ID number, or you are applying as a fresh applicant. Then, click on the NO option. The box before the NO option will become green with a white tick showing that it is selected. When you select it, the below SIGN-UP page will be appear. 

Fill out the form by providing the following details:

• Select Gender
• Select civil status
• Provide date of birth(year, month, day)
• Provide your name(first name, middle name, and surname)
• Mobile number(you will receive OTP(One Time Password) on your mobile number)
• Active email address
• Enter a Strong password

Check the mark on the box before READ and ACCEPT TERMS OF SERVICES. 

Then check mark the white box before the I’m not a robot to complete the captcha challenge.

finally, click the SIGN-UP button. 

Enter the following details:

• First name
• Surname
• Mobile number
• Birth date 
• Enter your old NBI ID number

Then click the PROCEED button.

:

A confirmation message will be sent to your given mobile number from the NBI portal.

 There will be an OTP(One Time Password) in the message. Copy the OTP number(it is a 6-digit OTP), and paste it into the NBI website.

Then click the SUBMIT button. Here your online registration process for the online application of NBI clearance certificate is completed. 

Note. When you received the message having the OTP. Try to use it quickly. Because if you don’t use it within 5 minutes. The OTP will expire. You have to send another OTP if this happens. 

Step 3. Login to Your NBI Clearance Account:

Once the online registration process is completed, you can go for NBI clearance login to your account.

If you had already an account on the NBI portal, clearance.nbi.gov.ph, and you remember the registered email address and password, then you don’t need to do the online registration step. Provide your email and password and click the SIGN-IN button to login to your account.  

Provide your registered Email and Password, and click the SIGN-IN button to login to your account.

Step 4. Fill out Your Applicant Information Profile:

After the NBI online registration process, and login to your account; the next step is to fill out your personal information form.

When you click the SIGN-IN  button. You will be directed to the applicant information page. 

Type the following additional information in the form:

• Birthplace 
• Citizenship
• Address
• Family background details
• Spouse name and birthplace
• Father’s name and birthplace
• Mother’s name and birthplace
• Educational attainment 
• Occupation
• Religion
• Height
• Weight
• Complexion
• Identifying mark

Then click the SAVE INFORMATION button. A summary of all your information will be displayed on the screen. 

Review the provided details. If there is any error or misspelled information, click on the edit information button and correct it. Then save the information again. Download your application form. Also, take a printout of the application form as it may be needed at the selected NBI branch.

Correction of all the information is very important. Because once your application is processed and you got the certificate and there is an error in the certificate. You will have to apply for the NBI clearance again to correct a minor error or a single character.

That’s why it is better to click the EDIT INFORMATION button, and review all the provided information. Then save it again, and then click on the APPLY FOR CLEARANCE button.

Step 5: Selection of a Specific Valid ID for Identity Verification:

After selecting the APPLY FOR CLEARANCE Button, you need to select a valid ID. There are several valid ID options as mentioned in the image below. Select the one that bears your full name, a clear photo, and a signature. The ID must be valid and present with you in good condition. You will need it at the time of your visit to the NBI office to present it for identity verification. 

Step 6. Schedule an NBI Online Appointment:

The next step is to schedule an online NBI appointment. In this step, you need to select your preferred NBI office, a specific day of your choice, and select time (either AM or PM) from the available slots. Select from the working days(from Monday to Friday) at your convenience. The blue boxes indicate the slots(day and time), which are available for the appointment at the selected NBI branch. 

Note. Saturday and Sunday are public holidays. 

₱Step 7. NBI Clearance Fee Payment:

When you finish the online registration and online appointment process for the NBI Clearance, the next step is to pay the processing fee. 

When you are done with the selection of the online appointment process, you will be directed to the fee payment page. This page will show you your scheduled appointment details and payment options. 

Select the payment option, through which you want to pay. When you click it, a pop-up window will appear on the screen.

.

This popup window tells you that there will be a reference number for the payment, pay through the selected payment option using the reference number. Click the Proceed button. Another popup window will appear on the screen.

It will show you that the fee for the NBI Clearance is PHP 130, and it also highlights that you have to pay an additional PHP 25 as service charges to the payment services. 

It means that you have to pay PHP 155 through the payment service for the NBI clearance fee payment.

Click the Proceed to Payment button.

It will show you the reference number and the total amount.

Note down or save the reference number. You will need it during payment. You will also need it as proof during your visit to the NBI branch office.

Select your payment option, and follow the steps to pay the clearance fee. 

 Save the fee receipt with yourself, and take a printout of the fee receipt. 

Step 8. Visit the NBI Office at the Appointment Day and Time:

After online registration, applicant form filling, booking an online appointment, and fee payment; the final step in completing the application process for the NBI clearance is to go to the selected NBI branch office on the appointment day. 

 At the appointment date, dress properly and try to reach the branch office as early as possible. 

At the office, acquire about the process from an officer. He/she will direct you to the photo capture and biometrics designated area. A digital billboard having the wording “BIOMETRIC” has also been hung in that area for the convenience of the applicants.

Step 9. Collect Your NBI Clearance Certificate:

Once the photo capture and the biometric process are done. Your application will be processed for further verification. They will process your details to check for any HIT. In the meantime, you will wait in the waiting area present with the RELEASING counter. 

In case of no HIT, your name will be called at the RELEASING counter. Go and collect your NBI clearance. 

If your application got a HIT, it means that your application needs further verification. They will ask you to come after a week or 10 working days depending on the status of the HIT and the amount of workload. They may also ask you for other supporting documents. 

Online Renewal Options for the NBI Clearance in 2025:

.The online application procedure for the renewal of NBI clearance is for those applicants whose clearance has expired or is about to expire. Besides, this process is for the renewal of those expired clearances that were issued on October 16, 2016, or later. They can apply for the NBI clearance renewal. 

Although you can also apply through the proper online application process and then visit the NBI office for the collection of the NBI clearance, this method is easy and can be processed anytime. You can do all the process from the comfort of your home. You can also get the NBI clearance at your doorstep.

 But this process is expensive. It will cost you PHP 355 to PHP 372 in total. It includes:

1. Processing fee charges=PHP 130
2. Delivery charges=PHP 200 to PHP 250 depending on the location
3. Payment service charges =PHP 10 to 20 depending on the payment option.

You can renew your clearance without leaving your home. The NBI clearance will be delivered to you within 7 to 10 working days.

📝Note: This is a short outline of the NBI Clearance renewal process. For a full walkthrough with delivery options, fees, and troubleshooting, and step-by-step guide with screenshots, visit our dedicated article: https://phclearance.com/nbi-clearance-renewal-and-door-to-door-delivery-2025/

Step 1. Online Registration Process for the NBI Clearance Renewal:

Go to the NBI Clearance Official Website at https://clearance.nbi.gov.ph/,  for online application.

This is the home page of the NBI service website. For NBI Clearance Online Renewal, click on the CLICK HERE button in the yellow box as highlighted by the arrow.

Fill out the registry form for the NBI clearance renewal. Provide your required details. Review your details and the Verify button.

Select a verification method and provide the required details for that specific selected verification option.

Once the system verified you a genuine user, you will be directed to a page. It will contains information and selection of the delivery method.

Step 2. Choose the Delivery Method(Door-to-Door Delivery):

Two options for the delivery of the NBI clearance ID will be displayed on the screen. Select the door-to-door option.  You will get a form. It is a delivery form that provides your details.

Step 3. Compete the Door-to-Door Delivery Procedure:

You will get a form on the screen.

Fill out the form by providing your details about your address. Also don’t forget to pin your location by entering your address. 

When you pin your delivery location successfully, click on the  PROCEED button. You will get the transaction slip along with the payment methods.

₱Step 4. Fee Payment for the Online NBI Clearance Renewal:

You need to pay the amount mentioned in the transaction slip. Select a payment method through which you want to pay the fee.

After selection of the payment option, a reference number will be generated for you. Through the fee for that specific reference number.

You will get your NBI clearance certificate at the provided address.  

Online Application Process For Students or First-time Job Seekers 2025:

First-time job seekers are those applicants who are exempted from the NBI clearance fee. A separate dedicated NBI portal is present for the online application process of such applicants. 

Such applicants should make sure that they have the barangay certificate, and that they use the NBI First Time Job Seeker portal for the online registration process. 

📝Note: If you’re applying as a student/first-time job seeker under the First-Time Jobseekers Act, here is a quick overview. For full instructions, screenshots, and tips, read the complete guide: How to Get Free NBI Clearance(2025).

Step 1. Online Registration Via Dedicated First-Time Job Seekers NBI Portal:

Go to the NBI Clearance Official Website at https://clearance.nbi.gov.ph/,  You will get to the home page of the NBI clearance service website.  

Click on the FIRST TIME JOB SEEKERS button.

 Fill out the registry form and click the sign up button.

Complete the mobile number verification and email verification to complete the online registration process for the free NBI clearance online application process as a student or first-time job seeker.

Step 2. Fill out the Application Form:

Fill out the applicant information form.

Provide correct required details. Review all the details again before clicking the SAVE INFORMATION button.

Remember the section having the * sign is compulsory to fill out. Your applicant information form will not proceed further if you don’t provide the details in the section having this red color sign. 

Select a type of ID from a list of IDs. Select that ID, that is present with you in an original, and valid condition. It should be in good condition and clearly show your name, signature, photo, and ID number. Write the ID number in the below section. 

 You will be directed to the appointment page. 

Step 3. Schedule an Online Appointment for the NBI Clearance as a First Time Job Seeker’s Applicant:

First, select the NBI Branch office to schedule the appointment. Then select the day(Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday) and time( either AM or PM) from the available slots. 

When you book your online appointment, a reference number will be generated for you. Note down or save the reference number. 

Step 4. Go to the Selected NBI Branch Office for the Appointment: 

Go to the NBI office for the appointment. Take all the required documents, barangay certificate, reference number slip, and the selected valid ID along with another valid ID, before going to the office. 

At the office, photo capture, biometrics, and document verification will be performed. They will do a detailed scrutiny. If you don’t have a HIT. They will issue you the NBI clearance ID on the same day. 

Through this step-by-step process, you will get the NBI clearance free of cost. 

Sample of NBI Clearance Certificate:

Here is an NBI clearance certificate sample. The sample of NBI clearance looks like this.

Why is NBI Clearance Important for Filipinos?

Clearance from the NBI plays an important role in fulfilling your personal, professional, and legal matters. It is useful in opening doors for multiple opportunities. Some of its important uses are as follows:

Application for Job/Special Services Exams:

NBI clearance acts as an important document in job application, and applying for the Special services exam. Without this clearance, neither you can apply for a job nor apply for the special services exam. You must have it as a pre-requisite in this case. 

Proof of Identity and Considered as a Valid ID:

NBI clearance is an important document, and is accepted as a valid ID like other government-issued IDs. It is also accepted as proof of identification in the Philippines. It is therefore necessary that you should have a valid NBI clearance.

Working Abroad:

Filipinos who are willing to work abroad will also need the NBI clearance. It is an important requirement in fulfilling the visa process for such individuals. 

Prerequisite for Government-issued IDs:

It is an important prerequisite for the application process for government-issued IDs, and it acts as if the applicant has a clean background free of criminal or unlawful activities. 

Travel and immigration:

If you want to travel to or seek immigration in other countries, you will need NBI clearance for the documentation process. 

Business Registration:

To register for business, you will need certain permits or licenses. Here, you will need the clearance as proof that you are legally clear to do business in the Philippines.  

How to Verify NBI Clearance Online?

Go to the official website of the NBI, www.clearance.gov.ph. 

This is the homepage of the NBI website. Click on the yellow button, NBI CLEARANCE ONLINE VERIFICATION, you will get the below page. 

Enter the NBI ID number, and click the Verify button. 

It will verify your NBI ID. It will also show you the status of your ID, whether your ID is expired or still valid. 

If you get expired status for your ID, try to renew it as soon as possible to avoid inconveniences. 

 GCash Payment for NBI Clearance – Brief Guide & Link?

If you want to pay the NBI clearance fee through GCash, Here is the brief guide:

Note: For a complete step-by-step guide with screenshots, read our full article: https://phclearance.com/pay-nbi-clearance-fees-using-gcash/

₱NBI Clearance Fee:

The cost of obtaining an NBI clearance in the Philippines depends on the type of applicant and the services availed.

For regular or first-time applicants, the standard clearance fee is PHP 130, while additional service charges, ranging from PHP 20 to PHP 30, are applied depending on the payment method or service provider, bringing the total to PHP 150 to PHP 160.

For online clearance renewal, the total cost may rise to PHP 350 to PHP 380 due to added delivery charges, which typically range between PHP 200 and PHP 250, on top of the standard clearance and service fees.

It’s important to note that the first-time job seekers can apply for their NBI clearance free of charge under the First-Time Jobseekers Assistance Act. You must submit the required Barangay Certificate and documents proving their eligibility.

While some sources mention variations based on location or processing time, the NBI system operates on a standard processing framework, and there is currently no official “rush” or fast-delivery option for clearance issuance.

Is NBI Clearance a Valid ID in the Philippines?

The NBI Clearance certificate is generally not considered a primary government-issued ID in the Philippines. While it is an important government-issued document that certifies an individual’s criminal background check status, it is typically classified as a supporting document rather than a primary valid ID.

Government agencies and institutions like banks, DFA, LTO, and SSS often do not accept the NBI Clearance as a valid ID on its own when applying for services that require a government-issued photo ID. Instead, they may require IDs like the UMID, passport, driver’s license, or voter’s ID.

However, some private institutions or employers may accept it as part of a set of identification documents, particularly when no other primary ID is available. Its use is more recognized in background verification, employment applications, or when supporting documentation is needed during identity checks.

NBI Clearance Application Processing Time (2025):

The NBI clearance application process is a combination of online and in-person steps. Here is a detailed look at how much time each phase takes, from online application to certificate issuance:

Online Application Processing Time:

The online NBI clearance registration and appointment scheduling can usually be completed within 10 to 30 minutes, depending on your familiarity with the website and how quickly you can upload your information. This step includes:

• Reference number
• Valid ID copies
• Payment receipt (if paid online)

Waiting Period Until Appointment Date:

Once you complete your online appointment, the waiting time to visit the NBI office depends on appointment slot availability in your selected branch.

• On average, the earliest available appointment is usually within 2 to 5 working days from the date of your online application.
• However, during peak seasons or in busy locations (e.g. NCR branches), it may take up to 1–2 weeks to get a preferred slot.

Processing Time at the NBI Branch:

On the day of appointment:

If your identity is verified successfully and you don’t have a HIT, your clearance certificate will be released on the same day, often within 1 to 2 hours, depending on the queue and system workload.

If there is a high number of applicants, it might takes up to 3–4 hours.

If your application got a HIT, your clearance will be withheld for further verification, which can take up to 10–15 working days.

Summary:

Stage	Time Duration
Online Application Process	10 to 30 minutes
Waiting for Appointment Date	2 to 5 days (average), up to 2 weeks during peak times
On-site Processing (No HIT)	1 to 3 hours (same-day release)
On-site Processing (With HIT)	7 to 15 working days

Important Reminders/Tips for Smooth Application:

Don’t forget to present the selected ID:

During the online application process, there is a window that requires you to select a valid ID. That ID is a must while visiting the NBI branch office. 

Renew your ID at its proper time:

NBI clearance ID is important for Filipinos in completing important tasks in the Philippines. Now, it is considered a valid ID in the Philippines. But, simply an NBI ID is not only enough, a valid ID is a must. Expired ID is not accepted where it is needed. So, it is advised to renew your clearance before the expiry of the previous one to avoid delay in processing your activities.

Double-check Your Information:

Correction of information in the applicant form is very important. If you got your clearance and you came to know that there is a minor error or issue in a single character. There is no method present for its correction. To correct this, you have to apply again and follow the whole online process- online registration, scheduling an appointment, making payment, and visiting the selected NBI office. 

So, it is advised to check the information again and make sure that all the information is correct and up-to-date. 

Be Punctual and Dress Properly:

Arrive at your appointment at least 15 to 30 minutes early. 

Wear Modest and Casual dress, because they will capture your photo at the office. You need to look professional in the picture. 

Avoid Scam and Use Official Channels: 

Apply online at the official NBI website, https://clearance.nbi.gov.ph/. Use authentic payment channels for fee payment. Beware of third-party sites or individuals who claim that they will process your application fee easily or with a low fee. 

FAQs:

Conclusion:

By following the simple steps outlined in this guide, you can save time, reduce costs, and ensure a hassle-free experience. From online registration to scheduling appointments, paying fees, and even opting for door-to-door delivery, the entire NBI clearance online application process is just a few clicks away.

Take advantage of the online application process, secure an NBI clearance, and prove your trustworthiness. It’s your key to unlocking endless opportunities.