NBI Clearance Appointment 2026: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Everything you need to know about booking your NBI clearance appointment online, requirements, fees, and what to do if you get a HIT status.

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What is NBI Clearance? Requirements How to Apply Payment Methods HIT Status Renewal Process FAQs

What is NBI Clearance?

An NBI Clearance Appointment is an official document issued by the National Bureau of Investigation in the Philippines. It proves you have no criminal record or pending cases in the country.

You need this clearance for many important activities:

  • Employment: Most companies require it before hiring you
  • Travel abroad: Needed for visa applications and immigration
  • Government transactions: Required for passport applications and business permits
  • Educational purposes: Some schools need it for enrollment
  • Loan applications: Banks accept it as a valid secondary ID
Good News: First-time job seekers can get their NBI clearance for FREE under the First-Time Job Seekers Assistance Act (RA 11261).

The clearance stays valid for one year from the date it was issued.

Requirements for NBI Clearance Appointment

Basic Requirements

To apply for your NBI clearance, you need these documents:

  • Two valid government-issued IDs (original, not expired)
  • Online appointment reference number (from the NBI website)
  • Payment receipt (if not a first-time job seeker)

Accepted Valid IDs

The NBI accepts these government-issued IDs:

Primary IDs

  • Philippine Passport
  • Driver's License
  • UMID (SSS/GSIS)
  • PRC License
  • National ID (PhilSys)

Also Accepted

  • Voter's ID
  • PhilHealth ID
  • Pag-IBIG ID
  • Postal ID
  • Senior Citizen ID
Important: Company IDs, barangay IDs, and school IDs alone are NOT always accepted. Always bring government-issued IDs to avoid problems.

Special Requirements

For First-Time Job Seekers:

  • Barangay Certificate or Certificate of Indigency
  • Valid ID
  • Appointment reference number

For Minors (under 18):

  • Birth certificate
  • Valid ID of parent/guardian
  • Guardian must be present during the appointment

For Name Changes:

  • Marriage certificate (PSA authenticated) for married applicants
  • Valid IDs showing both old and new names

How to Book Your NBI Clearance Appointment Online

The NBI requires everyone to book appointments online. Walk-ins are NOT accepted anymore. Follow these simple steps:

  1. Visit the official NBI website
    Go to https://clearance.nbi.gov.ph/ and click "Register" if you're a new user. If you already have an account, just log in.
  2. Create your account
    Fill out the registration form with your personal details. Make sure everything is accurate because mistakes can cause delays. You'll receive a One-Time Password (OTP) on your phone to verify your account.
  3. Complete your application form
    Log in and fill out all required fields marked with an asterisk (*). Double-check your spelling and birthdate. Even small errors can trigger a "HIT" status later.
  4. Select your valid IDs
    Choose which government-issued IDs you'll bring to your appointment. You need at least two.
  5. Choose your appointment date and branch
    Select your preferred NBI branch and pick an available date. Blue boxes on the calendar show open slots. Book early because slots fill up fast.
  6. Pay the fee
    The standard NBI clearance fee is PHP 130. If you use online payment (GCash, credit card, 7-Eleven), there's an extra PHP 25 service charge (total PHP 155). Save your reference number and receipt.
  7. Go to your appointment
    On your scheduled date, arrive at the NBI branch with your reference number, two valid IDs, and payment receipt. Dress presentably in smart casual clothes (no tank tops or slippers).
  8. Get your biometrics taken
    The NBI will take your photo, fingerprints, and digital signature. If there's no "HIT," you'll receive your clearance the same day. If there's a HIT, you'll need to return in 5-10 working days.
Pro Tip: Book your appointment at least 2 weeks before you need it. This gives you time to resolve any issues if you get a HIT status.

Payment Methods for NBI Clearance

You can pay for your NBI clearance through several convenient channels:

Online Payment

  • GCash
  • Credit/Debit Card (Visa/Mastercard)
  • Online banking

Fee: PHP 130 + PHP 25 service charge = PHP 155 total

Over-the-Counter

  • 7-Eleven stores
  • Bayad Center
  • Other authorized payment centers

Fee: PHP 130 + PHP 25 service charge = PHP 155 total

Remember: Keep your payment receipt. You need to show it at the NBI office on your appointment day. The fee is non-refundable, but you have 15 days to use your appointment after paying.

Understanding NBI Clearance HIT Status

Getting a "HIT" status can be scary, but it's actually very common. Here's what you need to know:

What Does HIT Mean?

A HIT means your name matches someone else in the NBI database who has a criminal record or pending case. It does NOT automatically mean you're a criminal.

Don't Panic: Most HITs happen because of common names or name similarities. The NBI just needs to verify that you're not the person with the record.

Common Reasons for Getting a HIT

  • Common name: Names like "Juan Dela Cruz" or "Maria Santos" appear many times in the database
  • Similar names: Your name is close to someone who has a record
  • Past cases: You had a case before (even if dismissed or settled)
  • Database errors: Sometimes there are clerical mistakes in the system

What Happens When You Get a HIT?

  1. Wait Period
    You'll be told to return in 5-10 working days. This is standard procedure.
  2. Verification
    NBI personnel will check if the record really belongs to you by comparing your personal details with the criminal database.
  3. Clearance or Interview
    If the record doesn't match you, you'll be cleared immediately. If it does match, you might need to attend a Quality Control Interview.

How to Reduce Chances of Getting a HIT

  • Use your complete legal name (first, middle, last)
  • Write your full middle name, not just the initial
  • Avoid nicknames on the application form
  • Double-check your birthdate and birthplace
  • Bring your old NBI clearance if you have one
Good News: Once your HIT is cleared, future applications usually process faster because the NBI already verified your identity.

NBI Clearance Renewal Process

Renewing your NBI clearance is easier than applying for the first time. There are two renewal options:

Option 1: Quick Renewal (No Appointment Needed)

This is the fastest and most convenient option. You can renew completely online and get your clearance delivered to your home.

Requirements:

  • Your old NBI clearance must be issued from October 16, 2016 onwards
  • No changes in your name, birthdate, or birthplace
  • Your old NBI ID number

Fees:

  • Renewal fee: PHP 160
  • Delivery fee: Starts at PHP 200 (depending on location)
  • Total: Around PHP 360 or more

Steps:

  1. Go to the NBI clearance website and click "NBI Clearance Online Renewal"
  2. Enter your old NBI ID number, mobile number, and personal details
  3. Choose delivery or pick-up option
  4. Pay online using GCash or credit card
  5. Wait for your clearance to be delivered (or schedule a pick-up)

Option 2: Regular Renewal (With Appointment)

This option requires you to visit the NBI office but costs less.

Fee: PHP 155 (including service charge)

Steps:

  1. Book an appointment online at https://clearance.nbi.gov.ph/
  2. Pay the renewal fee online or at payment centers
  3. Go to your chosen NBI branch on your appointment date
  4. Bring two valid IDs and your payment receipt
  5. Have your photo and biometrics taken
  6. Get your clearance (unless you get a HIT)
Lost Your Old NBI Clearance? You can still renew if your record is in the NBI system. Just follow the regular renewal process with an appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I walk in to the NBI without an appointment?

No. The NBI no longer accepts walk-ins. You must book an appointment online first.

Q: How long does it take to get my NBI clearance?

If you have no HIT, you get it the same day. With a HIT, it takes 5-10 working days for verification.

Q: What if I miss my appointment?

You can still use your reference number within 15 days of payment. After that, you need to book a new appointment. The fee is non-refundable.

Q: Can foreigners get NBI clearance?

Yes. Foreigners living in the Philippines can apply. They need to present their passport, ACR (Alien Certificate of Registration), and other valid IDs.

Q: Is NBI clearance the same as Police clearance?

No. They're different documents from different agencies. NBI clearance covers national records, while Police clearance is local (from your city or municipality).

Q: What should I wear to my NBI appointment?

Dress in smart casual attire. Avoid wearing tank tops, sleeveless shirts, shorts, or slippers. They'll take your photo, so look presentable.

Q: How do I check if my NBI clearance is ready?

You can check online through your NBI account or call the NBI hotline at 8524-1277 or 8523-8231 local 5509.

Q: Can I use my NBI clearance as a valid ID?

While it's not a primary ID, some institutions accept it as a secondary ID for certain transactions. It's best to check with the specific institution.

Q: What if there's a mistake on my NBI clearance?

Contact the NBI office where you applied immediately. They can help correct errors on your clearance.

Q: Do I need to pay again if I get a HIT?

No. If the HIT is due to a namesake (not your record), you won't pay extra fees. Just return on your scheduled date to claim your clearance.

Final Tips for a Smooth NBI Clearance Application

  • Book early: Schedule at least 2-3 weeks before you need your clearance
  • Double-check details: Small mistakes in your name or birthdate can cause HITs
  • Bring extra IDs: Carry more than the required two, just in case
  • Save your documents: Keep copies of your reference number and payment receipt
  • Arrive early: Get to the NBI office 15-30 minutes before your appointment
  • Be patient: Processing takes 1-2 hours on average, even with an appointment
  • Keep your old clearance: It helps speed up future renewals
Need Help? For urgent questions, contact the NBI hotline at 8524-1277 or visit their official website at https://nbi.gov.ph/

Getting your NBI clearance doesn't have to be stressful. With proper preparation and the right documents, you can complete the process smoothly and get your clearance quickly. Good luck with your application!

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