NBI CLEARANCE | Important Things You Need To Know

October 08, 2020 | Unistaff

NBI Clearance article header

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Anyone who needs to sort out an NBI Clearance might face these two common scenarios:

While applying for or renewing NBI clearance from abroad a representative in the Philippines needs to claim it on behalf of the applicant
The application got a “HIT” and the applicant is asked to return after a few days because, but will be unable to do so because of work commitments

In this article, you’ll learn more about the NBI clearance. And if you read until the end, you’ll know exactly how to handle these situations. Let’s dive into this installment of: Now You Know!

Every person aspiring to work abroad needs to secure several documents during the application process. One of which is the NBI Clearance. It is usually one of the requirements that an applicant needs to submit prior to leaving the country. In the past, there were separate types of NBI Clearances for different purposes, such as local employment, overseas employment, travel abroad, and visa application. Nowadays, the NBI Clearance can be used as proof identity when making changes in legal documents, for local employment and for overseas employment, where agencies and employers can verify one’s record on compliance with the law.

What is an NBI clearance?

NBI Clearance sample photo

The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Clearance is a government document released to an individual upon request. It certifies that the said individual, at the time of request, is not involved in any ongoing criminal cases in the Philippines.

Unlike a Police Clearance (which is only limited to a particular area), an NBI Clearance covers the entire Philippines. A person’s NBI Clearance is valid for one year upon its request, and should be used within that time.

What is it used for?

The NBI Clearance has many uses, but it is most often required by potential employers, locally or abroad. It is used as proof that candidates being considered for job roles are not involved in any pending criminal cases. It will also show any existing criminal records.

Here are some other examples of where the NBI Clearance is required.

2 type of NBI clearance infographic

These are just some of the possible uses for an NBI Clearance, and there are many more. Generally, it’s a good idea to always have a valid NBI Clearance on hand. Because the amount of time it takes to go through the process of requesting for one may require taking some personal days off.

How to apply for it online?

Applying for an NBI Clearance is now much easier and faster because it can be done online. All you need to do is personally appear at the NBI office or branch of your choice, on your appointment date.

steps to apply for NBI clearance online

If you were issued with an NBI clearance between 2014 to 2018, you can find more information about NBI Clearance Renewal here.

What are the requirements?

NBI requirements

When applying for an NBI clearance, at least two valid government-issued IDs need to be presented. Refer to the following list of valid IDs:

Unified Multi-Purpose ID (UMID)
Driver’s license
Passport
New Postal ID
Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) card
Birth certificate issued by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA)
Voter’s ID
PhilHealth ID
Tax Identification Number (TIN) ID
Alien Certificate of Registration
Senior Citizen ID
Police clearance
Valid School ID
Copy of any previously issued NBI Clearance (valid or expired)

As of October 2020, the Multi-Purpose NBI Clearance fee is ₱130 plus ₱25 NBI clearance system e-payment service fee, for a total of ₱155. And the Renewal fee is ₱330 plus ₱25 NBI clearance system e-payment service fee, for a total of ₱355. Learn more about payment method options here.

IMPORTANT REMINDERS:

Bring only original IDs or documents (not photocopies).
IDs must be valid, in good condition, and must show a clear photo of the applicant.
IDs that are expired or fake will not be accepted.
Company ID, Barangay Clearance and other non-government-issued IDs will not be accepted as valid IDs for NBI Clearance application. This rule applies regardless of purpose, whether applying for an NBI Clearance for local or overseas employment, travel abroad, etc.

What to do if there’s a “HIT”?

NBI HIT photo

Applicants with a “HIT” status are given a five to ten-day waiting period, during which NBI researchers meticulously verify if the “derogatory records” indeed belong to them or to someone else with the same name. As long as the “hit” returns nothing incriminating, the applicant can simply return to the NBI office after the waiting period and claim the NBI clearance without any additional fees.

Possible reasons for NBI HIT infographic

How to secure it from the Philippines while abroad?

There are two ways to apply for an NBI clearance abroad without flying back to the Philippines.

With an authorized representative – authorize a representative to file an NBI clearance application in the Philippines on behalf of the applicant. The authorization document must be authenticated by the Philippine Consulate. Simply send a signed and authenticated authorization letter along with the other requirements to someone in the Philippines and secure an online appointment.
Without an authorized representative – If a trustworthy, authorized representative in the Philippines is not available to manage the application, visit the Philippine Embassy within the host country to secure all the necessary requirements and secure an online appointment. Then send the documents to the NBI Main Office.

NBI Office

There are several NBI Clearance Branches available. For any inquiries, contact the NBI Help Desk from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm (Philippine time). Bear in mind that their hours of operation or working capacity may be limited due to the ongoing global health crisis.

Landline: (+63) 02 526 12 94
Globe: (+63) 917 999 94 21
Smart: (+63) 920 412 99 99 / (+63) 999 569 99 64