NBI Appointment Online Application and Renewal 2025

NBI Clearance is an official document issued by the National Bureau of Investigation to prove that you have no criminal record in the Philippines. It is required for job applications, travel abroad, business permits, passports, and many government transactions.

In 2025, the NBI Clearance process is done online, but many people still struggle with registration, payment issues, appointment slots, and “HIT” delays. I’ve helped thousands of applicants complete their NBI Clearance quickly and correctly, and in this guide, I’ll show you the exact steps based on the latest system updates.

Why You Need NBI Clearance?

Here are the most common situations where you will be asked to present an NBI Clearance:

• Job applications (local or abroad)
• Visa and travel requirements
• Business permits and government transactions
• Professional license or PRC renewal
• Immigration or change of name
• Overseas job processing (POEA, DFA, etc.)

In short, NBI Clearance is your background check document. Without it, many important applications can be delayed or denied.

Now that you know why it’s required, let’s look at who can apply in 2025.

How to Apply for NBI Clearance Online (Step-by-Step)

If you have already got NBI Appointment and want to renew it checkout to our NBI Appointment Rnewal Online. Applying for NBI Clearance online is the fastest and most reliable way to get your clearance. Follow all the mentioned steps below to to get your NBI appointment online through the official portal.

Here’s exactly how to do it:

Step 1: Create Your NBI Account

Go to the official NBI Clearance website by clicking the button below. If you’re a first-time job seeker, you may also use the special portal at firsttimejobseekers.nbi.gov.ph.

You will be asked: “DO YOU HAVE AN OLD NBI CLEARANCE FROM 2014 TO PRESENT?” If this is your first time, select “No.” Click Register and choose New Application or Renewal.

Fill out the registration form with your personal information. Make sure all details match your valid ID because these will appear on your clearance.

Tick the boxes for “READ AND ACCEPT TERMS OF SERVICE” and “I’m not a robot.” Then click “SIGN UP.”

Ensure that you meet all the NBI Clearance requirements.

Note: Double-check spelling of your name and birthday. Any mistake can delay your clearance.

Step 2: Verify Your Account (OTP Verification)

NBI will send a One-Time Password (OTP) to your mobile number. Enter the six-digit code within 5 minutes to verify your account.

After verification, you will be redirected to your Application Information page.

Complete all fields marked with an asterisk (*), such as:

• Civil status
• Birthplace
• Citizenship
• Address

Click “SAVE INFORMATION.”

• A summary of your details will appear. Review everything carefully.
• If something is wrong, click “EDIT INFORMATION.”
• Once everything is correct, click “APPLY FOR CLEARANCE.”

Avoid using nicknames or shortcuts. Use your full legal name as shown on your valid ID.

Step 3: Select the Valid ID You Will Present

Choose the ID you will bring to the NBI office. Common options include:

• Passport
• Driver’s License
• National ID (Digital or Physical)
• UMID
• PRC ID

Click “I AGREE” to proceed to the appointment scheduling page.

Step 4: Schedule Your Appointment

You will now see the NBI Appointment System. To book your slot:

1. Choose your preferred NBI branch.
2. Select your date and time (AM or PM).
3. Check if the slot is available.
4. Click “Proceed to Payment.”

Morning slots are usually faster with shorter lines.

Once you choose your schedule, the system will generate a reference number. This number is very important—you will use it for payment and branch verification.

Step 5: Pay the NBI Clearance Fee

After booking your appointment, you must pay the NBI Clearance fee to confirm your slot.
The system will show several payment options such as:

• GCash
• Maya
• 7-Eleven (CLIQQ)
• Bayad Center
• Bank over-the-counter
• Online banking (through payment partners)

Click your preferred payment method. A reference number will appear. This reference number is required for payment and tracking, so save it or take a screenshot.

Follow the instructions shown on the screen to complete your payment.

Once paid, the status in your account will update automatically, but it may take a few minutes to a few hours depending on the payment channel.

Do not delete your receipt or confirmation in case the system delays updating as you’ll need to present this at the NBI office.

Step 6: Go to the NBI Branch on Your Appointment Day

Bring the following:

• Your valid ID (the one you selected earlier)
• A printed or digital copy of your reference number or payment receipt

Step 7: At the NBI Office

At the NBI branch, you will go through these steps:

1. Verification
2. Photo capture
3. Fingerprint scanning (biometrics)
4. Signature

Just follow the instructions of the staff. If your record is clear and there are no issues, you may get your clearance on the same day.

Arrive at least 30 minutes early to avoid missing your slot.

Step 8: Claim or Print Your NBI Clearance

After your biometrics, the staff will inform you if your clearance is ready. You can claim it immediately at the printing window.

If it is delayed due to “HIT”, you will be given a return date or further instructions.

Sometime it is available online. So, log in to your NBI account and check if there is a “Print Clearance” option. Some clearances can now be printed at home if the system allows digital release.

NBI Clearance Fees in 2025

The standard NBI Clearance fee in 2025 is ₱130, plus a ₱25 e-payment service charge, making the total ₱155 per application. This fee applies whether you are a first-time applicant or renewing your clearance.

If you choose Door-to-Door Delivery for renewal or reprint, the fee depends on your location (around ₱200–₱350) and is only available in selected areas.

If you lost your NBI Clearance, the reprint costs the same as a new application (₱155), and you still need to book an appointment.

Free NBI Clearance for First-Time Job Seekers

Under the First-Time Jobseekers Assistance Act (RA 11261), you can get one free NBI Clearance if it’s your first time applying for a job, you haven’t used this benefit before, and you can secure a Barangay Certificate confirming you are a first-time job seeker.

How to apply:

1. Get a Barangay Certificate (First-Time Job Seeker Certification)
2. Apply through the NBI website or job seeker portal
3. Present the certificate at the NBI branch
4. Your clearance will be free of charge (no ₱130 fee)

Note: The e-payment service fee is also waived if processed correctly.

Common NBI Application Problems and How to Fix Them

Even if you follow the process correctly, the NBI system can still give you problems. The good news is most of these issues have simple solutions once you know what to do. Here are the most common problems applicants face—and how to handle each one.

HIT Status (Delayed Result)

One of the most common issues during the NBI process is receiving a “HIT” status after your biometrics. A HIT happens when your name is the same or very similar to someone in the NBI system who may have a pending case or criminal record. This is a normal security check and does not automatically mean you did something wrong.

Solution:

If you receive a HIT, don’t panic. It simply means the NBI needs more time to verify your identity. In most cases, you will be asked to return after a few days. The verification process usually takes 5 to 10 working days, but it can take longer depending on the volume of cases. If the NBI needs more information, they will contact you or ask for supporting documents when you return. Once cleared, you can claim or print your NBI Clearance as usual.

Payment Not Reflecting

You paid the fee, but the status still shows “Pending.”

Solution:

Wait at least 30 minutes to a few hours, then refresh the “Transactions” page. Make sure the reference number you paid is correct. Always keep your receipt or screenshot as proof. If it still does not update after 24 hours, contact the payment provider (GCash, Maya, 7-Eleven, etc.) and then inform NBI with your reference number and proof of payment.

No Available Appointment Slots

Branches in big cities fill up quickly.

Solution:

Check for slots early in the morning or late at night when the system refreshes. Try booking on weekdays (especially Monday to Wednesday) or mid-month. You can also look for slots in nearby branches or satellite centers where the line is shorter.

Missed appointment

If you miss your slot, it becomes invalid and payment is not refunded.

Solution:

You must schedule a new appointment and pay again. To avoid this, only confirm your booking when you are 100% sure you can go. If you need to change the schedule, do it before paying, because once payment is made, rescheduling is no longer allowed.

Wrong information on your NBI Clearance

If your printed clearance has errors (name, birthdate, etc.), it might be rejected for job or visa use.

Solution:

Go back to the NBI branch where you applied and request correction at the Quality Control (QC) Section. Bring valid IDs and supporting documents (e.g., birth certificate, marriage certificate). NBI will update your record and reprint your clearance.

Where Can You Get NBI Clearance?

You can process your NBI Clearance in any official NBI branch or satellite office in the Philippines, as long as you book an online appointment first. Walk-ins are not allowed for regular applicants.

Here are the most common places to go:

1. NBI Main and Regional Offices: Located in major cities like Manila, Cebu, and Davao. These branches handle full services including biometrics and HIT verification.

2. Satellite Offices in Malls: NBI counters inside SM, Robinsons, and other malls are more convenient and usually less crowded. They can process and release NBI Clearances on the same day.

3. Provincial NBI Branches: Almost every province has an NBI office. These branches often have shorter lines compared to Metro Manila.

4. OFWs or Abroad: If you’re outside the Philippines, you can apply through the Philippine Embassy or Consulate, or request a fingerprint card and send it to NBI.

Operating Hours: Most branches are open Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM. Some mall branches follow mall hours.

Who Can Apply for NBI Clearance in 2025

Anyone who needs proof of a clean criminal record in the Philippines can apply for an NBI Clearance, as long as they meet the basic identity requirements. Here’s who can apply:

• First-time applicants
• Renewal applicants
• Applicants with name changes
• Minors (below 18 years old)
• Foreigners staying in the Philippines
• OFWs and Overseas applicants

If you fall into any of these categories, you are allowed to apply. The requirements may vary, but the process is open to almost everyone who needs legal clearance.

Smart Tips to Get Your NBI Clearance Faster

Getting an NBI Clearance can be quick if you plan it right. Here are practical tips that actually save time and prevent delays:

1. Book your appointment early

Slots fill up fast, especially in big cities. Check early in the morning or late at night when the system refreshes.

2. Choose less crowded branches

Provincial branches and mall-based satellite offices often have shorter lines compared to main NBI offices.

3. Go on weekdays (Monday–Wednesday)

These days usually have fewer applicants. Avoid Fridays and days after holidays.

4. Arrive at least 30 minutes early

Even with an appointment, arriving early gets you processed faster and avoids cut-off times.

5. Bring the correct ID

Make sure your ID is valid, not expired, and matches the information in your online account. Wrong or mismatched details cause delays.

6. Keep your reference number and receipt

Screenshots are enough. You will need this for payment confirmation and entry at the branch.

Check your email or account for updates

Sometimes schedules change or NBI gives extra instructions. Always monitor your account before your appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

Getting an NBI Clearance is required for many things in the Philippines, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. Thanks to the online system, you can set your appointment, pay the fee, and complete your biometrics with less waiting time. By following this guide, you now know exactly what to do from start to finish and can handle the process with confidence.

Remember, your NBI Clearance is valid for one year, so renew it before it expires to avoid delays in job or travel requirements. If you experience any issues, you can always contact the NBI Helpdesk or visit the nearest branch for assistance.

If you have any questions or need help with any step, feel free to ask in the comments and I’ll reply to you there.