What is nbi clearance

Last updated: April 1, 2026

Quick Answer: NBI Clearance is an official certification from the Philippine National Bureau of Investigation confirming that a person has no criminal record. It is required for employment, international travel, and government transactions.

Key Facts

Overview

NBI Clearance is a vital document in the Philippines that serves as proof of a person's clean criminal record. Issued by the National Bureau of Investigation, one of the Philippines' premier law enforcement agencies, the clearance certifies that the individual has no derogatory records, criminal conviction, or adverse information in the NBI's database.

Purpose and Use

The primary purpose of NBI Clearance is to verify an individual's background for various official transactions and requirements. It is commonly required for employment opportunities, particularly in sensitive positions involving government service, education, healthcare, and financial sectors. The document is also essential for overseas employment applications, permanent residence visa applications, travel authorizations, and various government transactions where background verification is necessary.

Validity and Duration

An NBI Clearance is typically valid for one year from the date of issuance. After this period, individuals who need the document for employment or other purposes must apply for a new clearance. The validity period ensures that background checks remain current and reflect any recent information that may have been added to the NBI database.

How to Obtain

Applicants can obtain NBI Clearance through two methods: online application via the NBI e-Services portal or in-person application at any NBI office nationwide. For online applications, applicants submit their information, pay the processing fee, and receive their clearance electronically or through mail. For in-person applications, individuals visit their nearest NBI office, submit required documents including a valid ID and birth certificate, and wait for processing, which typically takes one business day.

Requirements

Basic requirements include a valid government-issued identification, proof of residence, and the application fee. Applicants must provide accurate personal information to ensure proper record verification. Some situations, such as name changes or multiple address histories, may require additional documentation for verification purposes.

Related Questions

How much does NBI Clearance cost?

NBI Clearance typically costs between PHP 115-150 depending on the processing method chosen (online or in-person). Online applications may have slightly different fees compared to over-the-counter transactions at NBI offices.

How long does it take to get NBI Clearance?

In-person applications are usually processed within one business day. Online applications may take 2-3 business days for electronic delivery or longer if requesting physical mail delivery.

What is the difference between NBI Clearance and police clearance?

NBI Clearance is issued for national-level criminal records verification, while PNP-ACG (Philippine National Police) Clearance verifies local police records. Some employment requirements ask for both clearances for comprehensive background verification.

Sources

  1. National Bureau of Investigation - Official Website Public Domain
  2. Wikipedia - NBI Philippines CC-BY-SA-4.0