Updated: August 2026
Getting an NBI Clearance in the Philippines is much easier today because most of the application process can be completed online before you visit an NBI branch.
Whether you need your clearance for a new job, a government requirement, travel, or another transaction, this guide explains how to apply for an NBI Clearance in 2026 — from online registration and payment to biometrics and releasing.
Quick Answer: Register through the official NBI Clearance website, complete your information, choose an NBI branch and appointment schedule, pay the required fee, and visit the branch with your reference number and two valid government-issued IDs.
The NBI requires applicants to complete the online application and payment before visiting an NBI clearance office.
NBI Clearance Requirements in 2026
Before starting your application, prepare the following:
- Two valid government-issued IDs
- Active mobile number
- Active email address
- NBI online account
- Your NBI application reference number
- Proof of payment
- Personal appearance at an NBI branch for first-time or regular applications
The NBI Citizen’s Charter lists two valid government-issued identification cards as the standard identification requirement.
Examples of IDs recognized in the NBI’s current application guide include:
- Philippine Passport
- Driver’s License
- National ID
- UMID
- Postal ID
The NBI also lists certain government-issued certificates, such as a PSA Birth Certificate, among acceptable identification documents in its current guidance. Bring original, valid documents whenever applicable.
Step 1: Go to the Official NBI Clearance Website
Start your application at the official NBI Clearance portal:
Official NBI Clearance Portal:
https://clearance.nbi.gov.ph
Be careful when searching Google for “NBI Clearance.”
There are many unofficial websites that look like NBI application websites. The safest approach is to use a website ending in nbi.gov.ph.
The National Bureau of Investigation itself directs applicants to clearance.nbi.gov.ph for online clearance applications.
Step 2: Create an NBI Account
If you do not already have an account, register on the NBI Clearance website.
You will need to provide information such as your:
- Full name
- Date of birth
- Gender
- Civil status
- Address
- Mobile number
- Email address
Use an active phone number and email address because the system may send a One-Time Password or OTP to verify your registration.
Important Tip
Make sure your name and personal information exactly match your official IDs.
Check especially:
- Middle name
- Suffix such as Jr., Sr., III
- Date of birth
- Place of birth
- Spelling of your full name
Correcting mistakes later can make the process more difficult.
Step 3: Complete Your Applicant Information
After creating your account, log in and complete your applicant profile.
Fill in all required information carefully.
Once finished, review the information before clicking Save Information.
The NBI specifically advises applicants to make sure the spelling of their information matches their valid identification documents.
Step 4: Click “Apply for Clearance”
Once your profile is complete, select:
Apply for Clearance
The system will ask which valid government-issued ID you intend to present during your visit.
Select the appropriate identification document and continue.
Step 5: Choose an NBI Branch
Next, choose the NBI clearance center that is most convenient for you.
You can select an available appointment date and an AM or PM schedule.
The NBI has clearance centers throughout Metro Manila and the provinces.
You can find nearby locations using the official:
NBI Clearance Office Locator:
https://nbi.gov.ph/clearance-office-locator/
The NBI advises applicants to complete their online application and payment before going to an office.
Step 6: Pay the NBI Clearance Fee
The basic NBI Clearance fee listed by the NBI is currently:
₱130
An additional e-payment service charge may apply depending on the payment method you select. The final amount should be displayed during your transaction.
Payment methods available through the NBI system can include options such as:
- GCash
- Maya
- 7-Eleven
- Bayad Center
- Online banking
Available options may change, so check the payment methods shown in your NBI account when applying.
Don’t Lose Your Reference Number
After choosing your payment method, the NBI system generates a Reference Number.
Save it.
The easiest way is to take a screenshot on your phone.
You will need this reference number when paying and when you visit the NBI branch.
Before leaving for your appointment, check your NBI account and make sure the transaction status shows that your payment has been completed.
Step 7: Go to the NBI Branch
Bring:
1. Two valid government-issued IDs
2. Your NBI Reference Number
3. Proof of payment
Your reference number can generally be shown digitally on your phone, so keeping a screenshot is useful.
At the branch, follow the instructions for NBI Clearance applicants.
Step 8: Biometrics, Photo and Signature
At the NBI branch, your information will be verified.
The staff will capture your:
- Photograph
- Fingerprints
- Electronic signature
The official NBI process includes biometric and image capture before the clearance is released.
Before your clearance is printed, carefully check the personal information shown to you.
A small spelling mistake can create problems when you use the document later.
Step 9: Wait for the NBI “HIT” Check
This is the part that sometimes confuses first-time applicants.
After your biometrics are completed, the NBI system checks your information against its criminal database.
There are generally two possibilities.
No HIT
If there is no match requiring further verification, your clearance can proceed to printing.
For applicants with no HIT, the NBI’s standard process allows the clearance to be printed after verification.
With HIT
If your application gets a HIT, it does not automatically mean that you have a criminal record.
A HIT can occur when your name or personal details need to be checked against another record in the NBI database.
The NBI may ask you to return on another date while it verifies your identity and records. The current NBI application guide says this can commonly take around 5 to 10 working days, although actual processing times may vary.
Follow the return date given to you by the NBI branch.
How Long Does NBI Clearance Processing Take?
If you have:
- Completed the application online
- Paid before arriving
- Brought the correct IDs
- And have no HIT
the actual branch process can be relatively quick.
The NBI Citizen’s Charter lists biometric capture and printing as short processing steps once an online applicant with e-payment reaches the processing area. Actual waiting time at a branch, however, will depend on the number of applicants and local conditions.
For this reason, completing everything online before arriving can save significant time.
What Should You Wear for NBI Clearance?
Remember that the NBI will take your official photograph.
The NBI’s current application guidance advises applicants to avoid inappropriate clothing such as:
- Sandos
- Tank tops
- Shorts
- Slippers
Smart casual clothing or a collared shirt is a safer choice.
Is NBI Clearance Free for First-Time Job Seekers?
It can be.
Qualified first-time job seekers can obtain their NBI Clearance free of charge under the First Time Jobseekers Assistance Act.
Do not use the normal application process if you intend to claim this benefit.
Use the dedicated First-Time Job Seekers portal:
https://firsttimejobseekers.nbi.gov.ph
The NBI lists a properly issued Barangay Certification and two acceptable government-issued IDs or certificates among the requirements for this program. The clearance itself is processed free of charge for qualified applicants.
Make sure your Barangay Certification specifically complies with the first-time job seeker requirements.
Can You Renew NBI Clearance Online?
Yes, depending on your eligibility.
The NBI already provides online renewal options for qualifying applicants who have previously received an NBI Clearance.
There is also an important new development in 2026.
NEW in 2026: NBI eClearance on the eGovPH App
On July 6, 2026, the NBI and Department of Information and Communications Technology officially launched NBI eClearance through the eGovPH Super App.
Eligible verified eGovPH users can now access NBI Clearance services digitally, including renewal and access to a digital copy of their clearance.
According to the NBI, eligible users may be able to renew an NBI Clearance in as little as five minutes through the app.
If you already have an NBI Clearance and only need a renewal, it is worth checking the eGovPH app before making a trip to an NBI branch.
Can You Apply for NBI Clearance Without an Appointment?
The recommended process is to complete your application and payment online before visiting an NBI clearance center.
The official NBI Clearance Office Locator specifically tells applicants to apply and pay online before going to the office.
Completing the online process first is therefore the safest way to avoid unnecessary waiting or a wasted trip.
Can I Use GCash to Pay for NBI Clearance?
GCash is among the payment options listed in the NBI’s current application guide.
When making the payment:
- Check the reference number carefully.
- Confirm the payment amount.
- Save your payment confirmation.
- Take a screenshot.
- Check your NBI account afterward to confirm the transaction status.
Never send money to an individual claiming to be an NBI agent.
Use the payment channel generated by the official NBI Clearance system.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is NBI Clearance in 2026?
The NBI currently lists the basic clearance fee at ₱130, with an additional e-payment service charge depending on your chosen payment channel.
Do I need two IDs for NBI Clearance?
Yes. The NBI Citizen’s Charter lists two valid government-issued IDs as the standard requirement.
Can I show my NBI reference number on my phone?
The current NBI guide recognizes a printed or digital reference number or QR code for the branch visit. Saving a screenshot is therefore a good idea.
What happens if I have a HIT?
You may be asked to return on another date while the NBI verifies your information. Having a HIT does not by itself establish that you have a criminal record.
Where can I find the nearest NBI branch?
Use the official NBI Clearance Office Locator:
https://nbi.gov.ph/clearance-office-locator
Is NBI Clearance free for first-time job seekers?
Qualified first-time job seekers can receive an NBI Clearance free of charge through the dedicated First-Time Job Seeker process.
Can I renew through my phone?
Eligible users can now access NBI eClearance services through the eGovPH Super App, which was officially launched in July 2026.
NBI Clearance 2026: Quick Checklist
Before leaving home, make sure you have:
- Two valid government-issued IDs
- NBI online registration completed
- Appointment/branch selected
- Payment completed
- Reference number saved
- Payment confirmation saved
- Proper clothing for your NBI photo
If you have all of these ready, getting your NBI Clearance should be much easier.
Final Tip
Always start from an official Philippine government website.
For NBI Clearance applications, use:
NBI Official Website:
https://nbi.gov.ph
NBI Clearance Application:
https://clearance.nbi.gov.ph
Government procedures, payment channels, requirements and online systems can change. Before visiting an NBI branch, check the official NBI website for the latest information.