Last Updated: · Verified against the official NBI Clearance online portal

How to Book an NBI Appointment Online — Complete Guide 2026

Step-by-step guide to scheduling your NBI clearance appointment — from account creation to branch visit. Includes an interactive planner to check your readiness before your appointment day.

Quick Answer: To book an NBI appointment online, go to clearance.nbi.gov.ph → create an account or log in → fill in your personal details → select your preferred NBI branch, date, and time slot → pay the ₱155 fee (or ₱355 for Quick Renewal) via GCash, Maya, or other accepted channels → save your appointment reference number. Visit the branch on your scheduled date with 2 valid IDs.
Editorial Team Published: July 25, 2026 14 min read Fact-Checked

NBI Appointment Planner & Eligibility Checker

Answer a few questions to get a personalized checklist, readiness score, and preparation guide

How Does the NBI Online Appointment System Work?

The NBI online appointment system at clearance.nbi.gov.ph lets you register, schedule a branch visit, and pay the clearance fee — all before visiting the NBI. You create an account, fill in your personal details, choose a branch and date, pay the fee online, then visit the branch on your scheduled date for biometrics (fingerprints, photo, and signature). Most applicants without a HIT receive their clearance the same day.

The online system replaced the old walk-in process in most NBI branches. While a few satellite offices may still accept walk-ins, the vast majority of branches now require an online appointment. Booking online ensures you have a confirmed slot, reduces wait times at the branch, and allows you to pay digitally.

Who Needs an NBI Online Appointment?

All NBI clearance applicants in the Philippines need an online appointment. This includes first-time applicants, renewals, first-time job seekers (free under RA 11261), OFWs, senior citizens, PWDs, and foreign nationals residing in the Philippines. Quick Renewal (home delivery) applicants also book online but do not need a branch visit.

How to Book an NBI Appointment Online — Step by Step

Follow these 8 steps to book your NBI clearance appointment. The entire online process takes about 5–10 minutes.

Go to the Official NBI Portal
Open your browser and visit clearance.nbi.gov.ph. This is the only official NBI clearance website. Do not use third-party booking sites.
Create an Account or Log In
First-time users: click "Sign Up" and register with your email address and mobile number. Returning users: log in with your existing credentials.
💡 Use the same email for all future applications — it keeps your records linked.
Fill In Your Personal Information
Enter your full name (must match your valid IDs exactly), date of birth, place of birth, gender, civil status, and complete address. Double-check every field — errors can cause delays or a HIT status.
Choose Your Application Type
Select New Application, Renewal, or Quick Renewal (home delivery). First-time job seekers should select "New Application" and indicate job seeker status for the fee waiver.
Select Your NBI Branch
Choose your preferred region, province, city, and NBI branch. Select a branch convenient to your location. Main branches like NBI Manila may have longer queues — consider satellite offices for shorter wait times.
⚡ Satellite branches (malls, LGU offices) often have shorter lines than main city branches.
Pick Your Date and Time Slot
Select from available dates and time slots. Morning slots (8:00–10:00 AM) are most popular but also busiest. Afternoon slots typically have shorter wait times. Slots fill up fast — book at least 1–2 weeks in advance.
Pay the NBI Clearance Fee
Pay ₱155 (standard) or ₱355 (Quick Renewal) using GCash, Maya, online banking, 7-Eleven, Bayad Center, or other accepted channels. Save your payment receipt.
Save Your Reference Number
After payment, you will receive an NBI appointment reference number via email and on-screen. Screenshot it, write it down, and save the confirmation email. You will need this reference number at the branch.
📸 Take a screenshot — you will need the reference number at the NBI branch.

NBI Clearance Appointment Fees 2026

The NBI clearance fee is ₱155 for standard applications (₱130 clearance fee + ₱25 e-service fee). Quick Renewal with home delivery costs ₱355. First-time job seekers under 25 years old are exempt from the clearance fee under RA 11261 but still pay the ₱25 e-service fee.

Application TypeFeeNotes
New Application₱155₱130 clearance + ₱25 e-service
Renewal (Branch Visit)₱155Same as new application
Quick Renewal (Delivery)₱355Includes delivery fee, no branch visit
First-Time Job Seeker₱25Clearance fee waived under RA 11261

Source: NBI Clearance official portal, verified July 2026. Fees may change without notice.

What Happens on Your NBI Appointment Day?

Here is what to expect at the NBI branch from arrival to clearance release.

Arrival (15–30 min before slot)
Check In & Queue
Arrive at least 15–30 minutes before your time slot. Present your appointment reference number (screenshot or printed) and valid IDs at the entrance. You will be directed to the processing queue.
5–15 minutes
Document Verification
An NBI staff will verify your identity, check your IDs, and confirm your personal details against your online application. Make sure your IDs match the name you registered with.
5–10 minutes
Biometrics Capture
You will have your fingerprints scanned (all 10 fingers), photo taken, and digital signature captured. This is the core of the NBI clearance process — your biometrics are checked against the national database.
10–30 minutes
Result & Release
No HIT: Your clearance is printed and released within minutes. HIT: You receive a claim stub with a return date (typically 5–10 working days). Learn about HIT status →

What to Bring to Your Appointment

  • ✅ 2 original valid government-issued IDs — see full list
  • ✅ NBI appointment reference number (screenshot or printed)
  • ✅ Payment receipt (GCash, Maya, or other proof)
  • ✅ PSA Birth Certificate (recommended, especially for common names)
  • ✅ Ballpen (for forms if needed)

How to Reschedule or Cancel Your NBI Appointment

To reschedule your NBI appointment: log in to your NBI account at clearance.nbi.gov.ph, go to your appointment details, and select a new date and branch. Rescheduling is typically free if done before your appointment date. You do not need to pay the clearance fee again.

How to Reschedule

Log in to clearance.nbi.gov.ph → navigate to your existing appointment → click "Reschedule" or "Change Date" → select a new date and time slot → confirm. Your reference number may stay the same or be updated — check the confirmation screen.

Can I Cancel My NBI Appointment?

Cancellation policies vary, and refunds are generally not available for NBI clearance payments. If you cannot attend, try to reschedule instead of canceling. If you simply do not show up (no-show), your appointment slot expires and you may need to re-apply and pay again.

What If I Miss My Appointment?

If you miss your scheduled date, log back in to the NBI portal and check if you can rebook without repaying. In most cases, missed appointments require a new application and a new payment. To avoid this, reschedule in advance if you know you cannot attend.

Common NBI Appointment Mistakes to Avoid

  • ❌ Bringing only 1 valid ID — you need 2 original government-issued IDs, not photocopies
  • ❌ Name mismatch between IDs and application — your registered name must exactly match your IDs
  • ❌ Arriving late or on the wrong date — arrive 15–30 minutes early on your scheduled date
  • ❌ Forgetting your reference number — screenshot or print it before your visit
  • ❌ Using third-party booking websites — only clearance.nbi.gov.ph is official
  • ❌ Not paying before the appointment — complete payment online to avoid issues at the branch

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to the 25 most common questions about NBI online appointments

How do I book an NBI appointment online?
Go to clearance.nbi.gov.ph → create an account → fill in your details → choose a branch, date, and time → pay the ₱155 fee → save your reference number. Visit the branch on your date with 2 valid IDs.
Can I walk in to an NBI branch without an appointment?
Generally, no. Most NBI branches now require an online appointment. A few satellite offices may accept walk-ins during off-peak hours, but this is not guaranteed. Always book online to ensure a slot.
How much does an NBI appointment cost?
The standard NBI clearance fee is ₱155 (₱130 clearance + ₱25 e-service). Quick Renewal with delivery costs ₱355. First-time job seekers under 25 pay only ₱25 under RA 11261.
What valid IDs do I need for my NBI appointment?
Bring 2 original government-issued IDs. Accepted: Philippine Passport, Driver's License, PhilSys National ID, SSS/UMID, Voter's ID, Postal ID, PRC License, PhilHealth ID, Senior/PWD ID. Full ID list →
How far in advance should I book my NBI appointment?
Book 1–2 weeks in advance for the best availability. Popular branches fill up quickly, especially during peak months (January, June). If you need it urgently, check less busy satellite offices.
Can I reschedule my NBI appointment?
Yes. Log in to clearance.nbi.gov.ph → go to your appointment → click Reschedule → select a new date and time. Rescheduling is typically free if done before your appointment date.
What happens if I miss my NBI appointment?
Your appointment slot expires. You may need to create a new application and pay the fee again. To avoid this, reschedule in advance if you know you cannot attend.
How early should I arrive at the NBI branch?
Arrive 15–30 minutes before your scheduled time slot. This gives you time to go through the entrance queue and document verification before your biometrics appointment.
How long does the NBI appointment take?
The biometrics process itself takes 10–20 minutes. Including queue time and processing, expect 30 minutes to 1 hour total. Branches with fewer applicants process faster.
Can I choose any NBI branch?
Yes. You can select any NBI branch in the Philippines, regardless of where you live. Choose one that is convenient for you. However, if you receive a HIT, you must return to the same branch to claim.
How do I pay for my NBI appointment?
Pay online via GCash, Maya, online banking, 7-Eleven (CLiQQ), Bayad Center, or ECPay. Complete payment after selecting your appointment date. See all payment methods →
What is a reference number and where do I find it?
Your NBI reference number is a unique code assigned after completing your online application. It is displayed on-screen and sent to your email. You need it at the branch and to track your application.
Can someone else book an NBI appointment for me?
Yes, someone can help you fill out the online form, but you must attend the branch appointment in person for biometrics. The clearance requires your actual fingerprints and photo.
Do I need an appointment for NBI renewal?
Yes. Renewal applicants also need to book online. You can choose either standard renewal (₱155, branch visit) or Quick Renewal (₱355, home delivery). Renewal guide →
Is the NBI online appointment system available 24/7?
Yes. The NBI online portal at clearance.nbi.gov.ph is available 24/7 for registration and booking. However, the system may undergo occasional maintenance, usually during late-night hours.
What if the NBI portal is not loading?
The portal can slow down during peak hours. Try again during off-peak times (early morning or late evening). Clear your browser cache, try a different browser, or use mobile data instead of Wi-Fi.
Can I book an NBI appointment using my phone?
Yes. The NBI portal works on mobile browsers. Open clearance.nbi.gov.ph on your smartphone browser (Chrome, Safari) and follow the same booking process.
How do I check my NBI appointment status?
Log in to your NBI account at clearance.nbi.gov.ph to view your appointment details, date, branch, and payment status. Your confirmation email also contains your appointment information.
Can I get my NBI clearance on the same day?
Yes, if you do not receive a HIT. Most applicants without a HIT get their clearance within 15–30 minutes after biometrics. If you receive a HIT, you must return after 5–10 working days.
What is biometrics at the NBI?
Biometrics is the process of capturing your fingerprints (all 10 fingers), photograph, and digital signature. These are checked against the NBI national database to verify your identity.
Can OFWs book an NBI appointment?
Yes. OFWs can book through the same portal. They may also apply at NBI satellite offices in Philippine embassies/consulates abroad. Bring your OWWA membership and passport.
Can foreign nationals get NBI clearance?
Yes. Foreign nationals residing in the Philippines can apply. They need their passport, ACR I-Card (Alien Certificate of Registration), and visa. Book through the regular portal.
Are first-time job seekers free from NBI fees?
Partially. Under RA 11261 (First Time Jobseekers Assistance Act), the ₱130 clearance fee is waived for qualified applicants (under 25, first-time job seekers). You still pay the ₱25 e-service fee.
How long is the NBI clearance valid?
NBI clearance is valid for 1 year from the date of issuance. After it expires, you need to apply for a renewal through the same online process.
Can I print my NBI appointment confirmation?
Yes. You can print or screenshot your appointment confirmation page. While a printed copy is not required (a screenshot on your phone is fine), having a printout is helpful as backup.

Related NBI Clearance Guides

NBI Clearance Online Application 2026
Complete walkthrough from registration to clearance release
NBI Clearance Requirements & Valid IDs
Full checklist of accepted documents and valid IDs
Pay NBI via GCash — Step by Step
How to pay your NBI fee using GCash
NBI HIT Status — What to Do
What HIT means and how to resolve it
NBI Clearance Fee 2026
Complete fee breakdown and all payment channels
NBI Clearance Renewal Online
Renew your clearance online or via Quick Renewal
Verified Against Official Sources
Cross-checked with clearance.nbi.gov.ph appointment portal.
Regularly Updated
Reviewed every 30–60 days to reflect the latest NBI portal changes.
Independent Resource
Not affiliated with the NBI. We provide free, unbiased appointment guides.

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. For official transactions, use clearance.nbi.gov.ph. Last verified: .