The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) in the Philippines helps in keeping peace and order and helps in the administration of justice in the country. One of the national bureaus is one of the most requested services, NBI Clearance. It is a legal document stating one does not have any criminal records or any unresolved case. The advent of the NBI Clearance Online system has simplified the process for Filipinos both domestically and internationally.
This is in response to the growing trend for NBI Clearance Online, and as such, this is the new and updated 2025 Guide to NBI Clearance Online, including the process of registration as well as the process of claiming the NBI Clearance.
NBI Clearance
It is a legal document issued by The National Bureau of Investigation and serves as a certification to whether a person has a criminal record in the Philippines. It is most often required for the following purposes:
- Employment purposes (both local and overseas)
- Application for passport or visa
- Interaction with the government for any services
- Business license and permits
- School requirements and scholarships
To summarize, it is an accepted document by multiple private and public institutions as legal proof of no criminal record and is, therefore, a document showcasing good character.
Advantages of Applying for NBI Clearance in Online System
Previously, candidates waited in long lines which involved having to deal with paper works. But with NBI Clearance Online Appointment, everything is digital. Below are the primary benefits:
- Wider Access: The first office you are required to visit is the NBI office closest to your home, which you can pay for over the NBI payment channels.
- Fewer Branch Transactions: The NBI waiting period is reduced by the online appointment system, which allows you to fch appointments at NBI branches.
- Payment Security: Vendor payment services help with the online payment guarantees.
- Remote Access: All NBI services are availabe from any location in the Philippines.
NBI Clearance applies modern procedures to ensure that sustainable practices are followed.
How to Apply for NBI Clearance Online (2025 Revised Steps)
To apply for an NBI Clearance online, you are required to fllow the steps below:
Step 1: Go to the NBI Clearance Site.
You can do so by setting the URL to https://clearance.nbi.gov.ph.
There are multiple webpages that are not the official NBI site, make sure you are on the official site so as not to get scammed.
Step 2: Create an Account.
- First time applicants can select the “Register” button, enter your first name, last name, email, and date of birth in the required fields.
- Past applicants can log in using their previously created account.
To ensure that you do not get delays in the application process, make sure the details you provided are reflected on the valid ID.
Step 3: Fill Out Your Personal Details
Once you have registered, sign in to your account and enter the following information.
- Home Address
- Place of Birth
- Civil Status
- Employment
- Reason for application
Make sure everything is accurate before you move on.
Step 4: Make Your Appointment
Pick your preferred NBI branch and then the date and time of your appearance.
Do note, they fill up quickly. If you are in densely populated areas, like Cebu, Davao, or Manila, try to book your appointment in advance.
Step 5: Pay NBI Clearance Fee
You should have **₱130 and an additional *₱25 for the electronic payment service charge*. This may vary depending on the payment method.
Payments can be made via the following methods:
- GCash
- Maya
- 7-Eleven Cliqq
- Bayad Center
- Credit and Debit cards
- Bank Transfers
Make sure you keep your transaction receipt and note your reference number.
Step 6: Go to NBI Branch
On your appointment date, make sure you have the following:
- One (1) government issued valid ID
- Receipt or Payment reference number
You will then have your captured photo, fingerprints, and signature taken.
Step 7: Clearance Release
Your clearance should be available for collection within a few minutes if you have no ‘hits’ on your report.
Like all law enforcement authorities, the NBI has access to government database fingerprint records, and even photograph records. Names, aliases and dialog (‘self-monolog’) on the in-house record indicate that if the clearance holder has the same name as someone who has a record, they can expect a few respective days of clearance residence verification. NBI clearance can be printed and approved directly on the website.
How to Renew Your NBI Clearance Online
Renewals of the NBI clearance Online System is much simpler. NBI now enables you to access the system via the link https://clearance.nbi.gov.ph and click on the NBI Clearance Renewal section. You will only be required to present the old NBI ID number, provide new details that can be utilized to contact you, and pay the owed. There is also the option of selecting home delivery for added convenience.
Common Reasons Why NBI Clearance Is Required
1) Employment: submission of applications both within and outside the country.
2) Travel: passport, visa, or any immigration regulations.
3) Government: applying for available positions and tenders.
4) Business: applications for licenses and permits.
5) Personal: legal records in bank loans, property ownership, or bank records.
It’s critical for professional and private activities to have updated records on file.
Tips for a Smooth Application
- Fill in the application assuming that there were record in the systems that were both digital as well as manual and could differ, particularly with the * spelling of the name and the date of birth.
- Refrain from using accounts that do not belong to you and accounts that have history that is in any way unauthorized.
- Use an active email to log.
- Usually, as a best practice, appointments for each work week should be spaced in the calendar for the beginning of the week to the middle of the week.
- Keep a record of the documents and the photocopies of the documents that were used for application and submission so that the electronic versions can be used again in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
It is valid for one (1) year from the date of issue.
Payment is made and the schedule cannot change. You need to reapply.
You cannot. There is a biometrics and photo capturing that is done that cannot be done without the applicant.
You have to verify and that takes about 5 to 10 working days. After that, you can claim your NBI Clearance.
Final Thoughts
The NBI Clearance Online system has improved the improvement the speed and friendliness of the processes. Your first time applying and renewing, this system improves your time in getting a NBI Clearance to the utmost.
The new processes suggested for year 2025 help ease the anxiety that comes with long lines and seems to complete the clearance application with more ease.