NBI Clearance Requirements: Complete Guide for 2025

An NBI Clearance is one of the most requested documents in the Philippines. It proves that you have no criminal record and is often required for jobs, travel, business, licenses, or overseas applications.

The requirements, however, are not the same for everyone. Missing even one requirement can delay your application. This guide collects all possible NBI Clearance requirements in one place, explains when each one applies, and helps you prepare the right documents based on your situation.

Basic Requirements for All Applicants

To get an NBI Clearance, you need a valid ID, an online appointment, your personal information, and payment for the fee. You may also need extra documents depending on your situation, which we will explain in the next sections.

Valid IDs Accepted by NBI

To apply for NBI Clearance, you must present one (1) valid government-issued ID. It must be:

• Original (not photocopy)
• Not expired
• Clear and readable
• Matches the name on your application

Commonly accepted IDs are given below:

Important: Company IDs, barangay IDs, or school IDs are not always accepted. Always prepare a government-issued ID to avoid rejection.

Personal Information Needed

During online registration and on-site verification, NBI will ask for:

Make sure all details are accurate and match your ID. Even a small spelling error can cause a “hit” or delay.

NBI Online Account Requirement

All applications start online. You must:

Without an account and reference number, NBI will not process your application.

Additional Requirements Based on Your Situation

Not everyone submits the same documents. Below are the specific requirements depending on your case.

First-Time Applicants

If this is your first time applying for NBI Clearance, you need to submit:

The first time applicants must complete the follwoing steps:

1. Create an account on the NBI Clearance website.
2. Fill out your personal information accurately.
3. Choose an appointment schedule.
4. Pay the fee online or through a payment partner.
5. Go to the NBI branch on your appointment day.
6. Present your valid ID and complete photo and biometrics capture.

Renewal Applicants

You can renew your clearance faster if your previous record is still in the system. Here are the requirements for NBI renewal:

If you don’t have the old copy, NBI can still find your record using your name—as long as details match.

Check complete guide for NBI Clearance Renewal.

Renewal Fee

For Quick Renewal online, with no personal appearance:

• Basic renewal fee: ₱330–₱350
• E-payment service charge: ₱25–₱30
• Total cost: ₱355–₱510 (delivery included)

For regular renewal with personal appearance

• Processing fee: ₱130
• E-payment system fee: ₱30
• Total cost: ₱160

Lost NBI Clearance

If you lost your previous NBI Clearance, you can still apply for a replacement or renewal.

If your NBI Clearance was lost or damaged, you can request a replacement by following these steps:

Note: The replacement process is similar to applying for a new clearance, but it may be faster if your data is already in the NBI system.

First-Time Job Seekers (Free NBI Clearance)

Under the First-Time Job Seekers Assistance Act (RA 11261), qualified applicants can get their NBI Clearance for free once in their lifetime. This helps new graduates and fresh job seekers save money while starting their career.

To qualify, you must:

Documents you need to prepare:

• One valid government-issued ID
• Barangay Certification stating you are a first-time job seeker (must include your full name, signature of barangay official, and issue date)
• Birth Certificate (PSA or Local Civil Registrar copy – some branches request this to verify age)
• Printed NBI online application form with reference number
• Online appointment using the First-Time Job Seeker option on the NBI website or dedicated portal (firsttimejobseekers.nbi.gov.ph/)

You only get one free NBI Clearance in your lifetime, so use it wisely. If you miss your schedule or use it for other purposes (like visa), the fee waiver will not apply.

Name Change (Married or Legal Change)

If your name has changed, NBI will need proof to update your record. Follow these steps carefully:

Note: Using your old name may cause a “hit” or mismatch, which can delay your clearance.

Minors or Applicants Below 18

NBI allows minors to apply in certain cases, such as for travel or employment with guardian consent. Here’s how to apply:

Some branches only process applications for minors aged 16 and above, so it’s best to check with the branch before visiting.

Applicants with Criminal Record or Pending Case

Having a previous case does not automatically disqualify you, but NBI may ask for extra documents.

Being honest and bringing proof speeds up approval.

Applications from Abroad

Some applicants have unique situations. Below are the exact requirements and what to expect so you can prepare properly and avoid delays.

Requirements for OFWs or Applicants Abroad

If you are outside the Philippines, you cannot apply in an NBI branch. Instead, you will submit your fingerprints and documents through the NBI or Philippine Embassy.

The application can be completed in two primary ways:

For renewals from overseas, applicants only need to send their previous NBI clearance certificate (issued in 2014 or later), a recent photo, a passport photocopy, and an authorization letter to their representative in the Philippines.

Requirements for Foreign Nationals Living in the Philippines

Foreigners may be required to get NBI Clearance for work, residence, visa extension, or business permits.

Here is how to apply for Foreign Nationals Living in the Philippines

NBI Clearance Photo and Biometrics Requirements

During your NBI appointment, your photo, fingerprints, and digital signature are collected for identity verification. Dress modestly, avoid hats (unless for religious reasons), heavy makeup, or anything hiding your face. Keep hands clean, dry, and free from nail polish or cuts for smooth fingerprint scanning.

You must appear in person to scan all ten fingerprints and sign digitally.

For applicants abroad, fingerprints must be taken on NBI Form No. 5, signed and sealed by the officer, then sent to NBI for manual encoding. Biometrics ensure accurate identity verification and help prevent duplicate records.

NBI Clearance “Hit” Status

Sometimes, your NBI Clearance will not be released right away because of a “hit” status. This can happen to anyone and often causes stress, especially if you don’t understand what it means.

Let’s make it clear and simple.

What is a “Hit” Status?

A “hit” happens when your name is the same or very similar to someone in the NBI database who has a criminal case or pending record.

This does not automatically mean you did something wrong. NBI just needs extra time to confirm your identity.

What Happens When You Get a Hit?

If a hit appears on your record:

How to Clear or Resolve an NBI “Hit”

If your NBI clearance shows a “hit” status, you’ll need to visit the NBI office again on your assigned date for verification. First, make sure you bring the required items:

• At least two valid IDs
• Proper attire (avoid sleeveless shirts, shorts, or slippers)

Once there, you’ll go through a Quality Control Interview with NBI staff to confirm your identity. Now, depending on your situation, you might also be asked to:

These documents help NBI verify that your record is clear and all past issues have been settled.

Payment Requirements

Paying for your NBI Clearance seems simple, but many applicants still get delayed because of wrong payment method, missing receipt, or unpaid reference numbers. Here’s everything you need to know to avoid problems.

Standard Fee Breakdown:

• ₱130 – NBI Clearance fee
• ₱25 – e-payment service fee. Total: ₱155

Possible extra charges (optional or situational):

• Courier delivery (₱200 to ₱220)
• Payment outlet service fees (₱10 to ₱50)
• International shipping (for OFWs abroad)
• DFA authentication (if needed for overseas use)

The system automatically calculates any additional charges

Accepted Payment Methods

After booking an appointment online, you will receive a Reference Number. You must use this reference number when paying.

You can pay through:

Fee Waivers (Who Can Get It for Free)

As stated earlier, individuals applying for their first job are exempt from the PHP 130.00 basic fee under Republic Act 11261. However, they may still be required to pay a PHP 25.00 service charge depending on the payment method used.

The Clearance Issuance Process

After your biometrics and photo are taken, NBI will either release your clearance on the same day or delay it depending on your record status.

Standard Issuance

This applies when there are no hits or complications in your record.

You can leave the branch immediately after checking your details.

With “Hit” Status

This applies when your name matches someone with a record in the NBI database.

• Issuance is delayed while NBI conducts manual verification.
• You will receive a return date, usually 5–10 working days later.

After verification:

The NBI Clearance serves as official proof that you have no pending criminal case or that any previous case has been properly resolved.

Frequently Asked Questions