Last reviewed: · Fee components and routes cross-checked against the NBI Citizen’s Charter and official portal. Exact totals should be confirmed at clearance.nbi.gov.ph before payment.

NBI Clearance Online 2026 — Application, Appointment & Renewal Guide

A step-by-step guide to the official NBI clearance process — from online registration to branch biometrics, with practical checklists and sourced fee information.

Quick Answer: To apply for NBI clearance in 2026, register at clearance.nbi.gov.ph, complete your details, choose a branch, pay the clearance fee (base ₱130 plus an e-payment convenience fee of roughly ₱25–₱30), then visit the branch with two valid IDs for biometrics. Release is typically same-day if there is no HIT, but this depends on the branch and your record status.
Read Application Guide Official NBI Portal ↗

This site is an independent guide. We do not process applications, payments, or clearances.

Guide
New Application
First-time applicant? Step-by-step guide covering registration, payment, and branch visit.
Guide
Renewal
Standard renewal (₱155 route) vs Quick Renewal delivery (variable courier fee) explained.
Guide
HIT Status
Got a HIT? Learn what it means and the conditional steps to resolve it.
Guide
Pay via GCash
Payment-channel walkthrough. Convenience fees vary — confirm the total on the official portal.
Go to Official NBI Clearance Portal ↗

Applications, payments, and appointment slots are handled only on clearance.nbi.gov.ph.

Quick Answer

NBI Clearance is a background check document issued by the National Bureau of Investigation in the Philippines. It confirms that an applicant has no pending criminal case or derogatory record in the NBI database. The clearance fee has two components: a ₱130 base fee and an e-payment convenience fee that varies by channel (commonly ₱25–₱30). It is valid for 1 year from issuance. Applications are submitted at clearance.nbi.gov.ph, followed by a branch visit for biometrics. Delivery is available only for eligible renewals, and the courier fee varies by location.

How Do You Get NBI Clearance Online in 2026?

The online portion takes about 30 minutes. The branch visit is typically short if there is no HIT, but release times depend on the branch and your record status.

1
Create Account
Register at clearance.nbi.gov.ph with your email and valid ID number
2
Fill Out Form
Enter personal details — name must match your government-issued ID exactly
3
Book Appointment
Choose your NBI branch and pick an available date and time slot
4
Pay the Fee
Base ₱130 + e-payment convenience fee (₱25–₱30 typical); exact total shown at checkout
5
Visit Branch
Bring 2 valid IDs for biometrics. Same-day release if no HIT; otherwise follow the return schedule
Read the Full Step-by-Step Guide →

How Much Does NBI Clearance Cost in 2026?

Fees are shown by component. The exact total depends on your route, payment channel, and — for delivery — your location.

Route
Base fee
E-payment fee
Delivery fee
What you pay
New application (branch visit)
₱130
₱25–₱30
—
~₱155–₱160
Standard renewal (branch visit)
₱130
₱25–₱30
—
~₱155–₱160
Quick Renewal with delivery
Eligible renewals only
₱130
₱25–₱30
Varies by location
Reported ~₱200–₱350
Displayed at checkout
First-time job seeker (RA 11261) 🎓
Free
—
—
₱0

The NBI sets the base clearance fee. Payment channels may add a convenience fee. Courier charges are set by the delivery service and vary by address. The exact amount for your transaction is shown on clearance.nbi.gov.ph before you confirm payment.

Sources: NBI Citizen’s Charter (2024 and 2025 editions) for base fee and e-payment component; third-party guides reviewed October 2026 for reported courier ranges. Courier fees are not fixed nationally.

Why there is no single “delivery total” here: Some guides list ₱255, others ₱355, and others ₱355–₱510. These figures use different assumptions about courier location and payment channel. Rather than publish a number that may be wrong for your address, we show the components and direct you to the official portal for the final amount.

What Are the Requirements for NBI Clearance in 2026?

Prepare these before you start. Requirements can vary slightly by branch — confirm with your selected branch if you are unsure.

For Online Registration
  • Active email address (for account verification)
  • Active mobile number (for OTP and contact)
  • Complete legal name (must match your valid ID)
  • Correct birthdate and birthplace
  • Complete home address
  • Parent’s names (father and mother’s maiden name)
For Branch Visit (Bring These)
  • Two (2) original valid government-issued IDs
  • Printed or screenshot of appointment details
  • Reference number from online application
  • Payment receipt or proof of payment
  • Old NBI Clearance (if renewing and available)
  • Barangay Certification + Oath of Undertaking (if first-time job seeker)

First-time job seeker documents are prescribed by the Joint Operational Guidelines for RA 11261. Other branches may ask for additional supporting documents in specific cases.

See Full Requirements & Valid ID List →

What Is NBI Clearance and Why Do You Need It?

NBI Clearance is a background check document issued by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) in the Philippines. It certifies that the holder has no pending criminal case or derogatory record in the NBI database. It is commonly required for employment, business permits, visa applications, and government transactions.

Almost every working Filipino will need an NBI clearance at some point. Employers require it during pre-employment screening, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) may ask for it during passport applications, and local government units require it for business permit processing. Unlike a police clearance, which checks local PNP records, NBI clearance checks the national criminal database — making it the more comprehensive background check.

NBI clearance is valid for one year from issuance. After expiration, you can renew through the official portal. Standard renewal requires a branch visit; Quick Renewal with delivery is available only to eligible applicants with an existing clean record and no unresolved name changes. First-time job seekers who qualify under Republic Act 11261 can get their clearance for free.

What Valid IDs Are Accepted for NBI Clearance?

The NBI accepts a range of government-issued IDs, including Philippine National ID (PhilSys), Philippine Passport, Driver’s License, UMID, PRC ID, Voter’s ID, PhilHealth ID, TIN ID, Postal ID, Senior Citizen ID, PWD ID, OFW ID, MARINA ID, Seaman’s Book, and PSA-issued Birth Certificate. Requirements can vary by branch, and some branches may not accept certain secondary IDs. You should bring at least two original valid IDs to your appointment. See the full valid ID checklist →

What Does “HIT” Mean on NBI Clearance?

A HIT on your NBI clearance means your name or personal details matched a record in the NBI database. It does not automatically mean you have a criminal case. Most HITs are “common name” matches — someone with a similar name has a record, and the NBI needs to verify whether it belongs to you. Resolution timing depends on the case and branch; the NBI Citizen’s Charter describes a return period of several days for verification, but this is not a guaranteed fixed timeline for every applicant. Learn how HIT resolution works →

Can You Renew NBI Clearance Online in 2026?

Yes, NBI clearance can be renewed online through clearance.nbi.gov.ph. There are two routes: standard renewal (branch visit, base fee ₱130 plus e-payment convenience fee) and Quick Renewal with delivery (no branch visit, available only to eligible renewals, with a courier fee that varies by location).

The renewal process starts at the same portal. Log in with your existing account and select “Renewal.” The system will check whether your previous biometric data is still on file. If it is, you may be eligible for Quick Renewal. If not, you will be asked to book a branch appointment. Read the full renewal guide →

Can OFWs and Filipinos Abroad Get NBI Clearance?

Yes. OFWs can apply through the nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate. The embassy processes the application and ships the clearance to the applicant’s address abroad. Some embassies also accept online applications through the NBI portal. Processing time and fees vary by location — check with your embassy or consulate for the current procedure. Read the OFW NBI clearance guide →

Is NBI Clearance Free for First-Time Job Seekers?

Yes, qualified first-time job seekers can get NBI clearance for free under Republic Act 11261 (First Time Jobseekers Assistance Act). To qualify, you must be a Filipino citizen seeking employment for the first time, and you must present a Barangay Certification confirming your first-time job seeker status and residency of at least 6 months, along with an Oath of Undertaking. The benefit can only be used once and is valid for one year from issuance of the Barangay Certification.

Check eligibility and see the full requirements →

Frequently Asked Questions About NBI Clearance

Conditional answers with sources. For transaction-specific amounts, confirm on the official portal.

How much does NBI clearance cost in 2026?
The NBI clearance fee has two parts: a ₱130 base clearance fee and an e-payment convenience fee that varies by payment channel (commonly ₱25–₱30). For a standard branch-visit application or renewal, the total is typically around ₱155–₱160. Quick Renewal with delivery adds a courier fee that varies by location — the exact total is displayed on clearance.nbi.gov.ph before you confirm payment. First-time job seekers who qualify under RA 11261 pay ₱0. See the full fee guide →
How long is NBI clearance valid?
NBI clearance is valid for one year from the date of issuance. After expiration, you need to apply for renewal. Some employers and agencies require a recently issued clearance (within 3–6 months) even if yours has not technically expired, so always check with the requesting party first.
What does “HIT” mean on NBI clearance?
A HIT means the NBI database found a name or personal detail that matches or is similar to yours. It does NOT automatically mean you have a criminal record. The most common type is a “common name” HIT — someone with a similar name has a record, and the NBI needs to verify it is not you. Resolution timing depends on the case and branch. The NBI Citizen’s Charter describes a return period of several days for verification, but applicants should follow the date given at the branch rather than rely on a fixed number. Read the full HIT status guide →
What valid IDs are accepted for NBI clearance?
The NBI accepts many government-issued photo IDs, including Philippine National ID (PhilSys), Passport, Driver’s License, UMID, PRC ID, Voter’s ID, PhilHealth ID, TIN ID, Postal ID, Senior Citizen ID, PWD ID, OFW ID, MARINA ID, and Seaman’s Book. PSA-issued Birth Certificates may also be accepted depending on the branch. Requirements can vary by branch, and some secondary IDs may not be accepted everywhere. You should bring at least two original valid IDs. See the full valid ID checklist →
Can I get NBI clearance without visiting a branch?
For new applications, a branch visit is required because the NBI must capture fingerprints, photo, and signature. For eligible renewals, Quick Renewal with delivery is available without a branch visit. Eligibility typically requires an existing NBI record issued in the online-only era, no derogatory findings, and no unresolved name changes. The courier fee varies by location and is shown at checkout on the official portal.
Can I get same-day release of my NBI clearance?
Often, yes — if there is no HIT and the branch is not experiencing delays, clearance may be released on the same day of your branch visit. The NBI Citizen’s Charter describes biometric capture and printing as short steps, but actual release depends on the branch queue, your record status, and whether verification is needed. Applicants with a HIT should follow the return date given at the branch.
What is the difference between NBI clearance and police clearance?
NBI clearance checks the national criminal database maintained by the National Bureau of Investigation — it covers records from all regions. Police clearance checks local records maintained by the Philippine National Police (PNP) in your area. Most employers and government agencies specifically require NBI clearance because of its nationwide scope. Police clearance is typically used for barangay-level transactions and local government requirements. Read the full comparison →
Is NBI clearance free for first-time job seekers?
Yes, under Republic Act 11261 (First Time Jobseekers Assistance Act), qualified first-time job seekers are exempt from NBI clearance fees. To qualify, you must be a Filipino citizen seeking employment for the first time, with a Barangay Certification confirming your status and at least 6 months of residency, plus an Oath of Undertaking. The benefit can only be used once and is valid for one year from the Barangay Certification issuance date. Check eligibility and requirements →
Can OFWs apply for NBI clearance from abroad?
Yes, OFWs and Filipinos abroad can apply through the nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate. The application is processed and the clearance is shipped to the applicant’s address. Some embassies also accept applications through the NBI online portal. Processing time and fees vary by location — check with your embassy or consulate for the current procedure. Read the OFW NBI clearance guide →
What should I do if my NBI payment is not reflected?
Do not pay again immediately. First, check your reference number, payment receipt, and transaction status. Most payment posting delays resolve within 24–48 hours, but this is a general expectation and not a guaranteed window. If the payment was successful but still not reflected after that period, keep your proof of payment (screenshot, receipt, transaction ID) and contact the NBI helpdesk or your payment channel. Common causes include an incorrect reference number, payment-channel processing delay, or system maintenance. See the full payment troubleshooting guide →
Sources Cited on the Page
Fee components are linked to the NBI Citizen’s Charter. Where a figure varies (courier fees, e-payment fees), we say so and direct you to the official portal.
Reviewed, Not “Live”
This guide is reviewed periodically. It is not a live system and does not claim real-time fee or appointment accuracy. Always confirm on clearance.nbi.gov.ph.
Independent, Not an Agent
NBIOnlineClearance.ph is an independent educational resource. We do not process applications, payments, or clearances, and we are not affiliated with the NBI.

Disclaimer: NBIOnlineClearance.ph is an independent, educational website. We are NOT affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), the Department of Justice (DOJ), or any Philippine government agency. This site does not process applications, payments, status records, or clearances. All transactions must be completed on clearance.nbi.gov.ph. Fee information on this page was last reviewed on and should be confirmed at checkout.