Last Updated: · Verified against the official NBI Clearance portal (clearance.nbi.gov.ph)
NBI Clearance Branches — Branch Finder & Visit Planner (2026)
Find the right NBI clearance branch, plan your visit, and know exactly what to bring. Complete guide to NBI regional offices, district offices, and satellite offices across the Philippines.
Quick Answer: NBI clearance branches are located across the Philippines and include regional offices, district offices, and satellite offices (often in malls). You choose your branch when booking your appointment online at clearance.nbi.gov.ph. All branches offer new applications and renewals. You must visit the branch you selected during your appointment — walk-ins are generally not accepted. Branches typically operate Monday to Saturday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but hours vary by location. Arrive 15–30 minutes early and bring your valid IDs and appointment confirmation.
NBI Branch Finder & Visit Planner
Plan your NBI branch visit — get a personalised checklist, estimated duration, and preparation guide
⚠️ Planning Tool Only: This branch finder is for educational and planning purposes only. Branch information, schedules, and services may change. Always confirm details through official NBI channels before travelling.
Types of NBI Clearance Branches
NBI clearance branches fall into three main categories: regional offices, district offices, and satellite offices. Regional offices are the main NBI facilities in each region, offering the most comprehensive services. District offices serve specific provinces or city clusters. Satellite offices are smaller facilities, often located in malls, designed for higher volume and convenience.
| Branch Type | Location | Services | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| NBI Main Office | Ermita, Manila | All services including foreign nationals | Foreign nationals, complex cases |
| Regional Office | Major cities per region | Full services, larger capacity | All applicant types |
| District Office | Provincial capitals, city centers | Standard services | Residents near provincial capitals |
| Satellite Office | Malls, commercial centers | Standard applications & renewals | Convenience, extended hours |
Services Available at NBI Branches
📝
New Applications
First-time NBI clearance applications with biometrics capture (fingerprints and photo).
👆
Biometrics Capture
Fingerprint scanning and photo capture — the core in-person step of every application.
📄
Clearance Release
Pick up your printed clearance. Same-day release for no-HIT results; HIT cases take longer.
✅
Document Verification
Verification services for employers and institutions confirming clearance authenticity.
How to Choose the Right NBI Branch
Choose your NBI branch based on proximity, appointment availability, and your specific needs. You select your branch when booking your appointment online. Consider these factors: distance from your home or office, available appointment slots, branch type (mall satellite offices often have more slots), and whether you need specialized services (foreign nationals must visit NBI Main or designated branches).
- ✅ Choose the nearest branch — you must physically visit the branch you selected, so prioritize convenience
- ✅ Check appointment availability — mall satellite offices often have more slots than regional offices
- ✅ Consider mall branches — extended operating hours and accessible by public transport
- ✅ Check for OFW lanes — some branches have dedicated lanes for overseas workers
Can You Visit a Different Branch?
No — you must visit the branch you selected during your online appointment booking. Walk-ins are generally not accepted. If you need to change your branch, you will need to cancel and rebook your appointment with a different branch selected. There is no fee for rebooking, but availability depends on open slots.
What to Bring to Your NBI Branch Visit
Bring at least 2 valid government-issued IDs, your appointment confirmation (printed or on your phone), and your payment receipt. First-time job seekers under RA 11261 should bring proof of eligibility for the fee waiver. OFWs should bring their OEC or OWWA documents. Foreign nationals need their passport and ACR-I Card.
| Item | Required? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2 Valid Government IDs | ✅ Required | Check the full accepted ID list |
| Appointment Confirmation | ✅ Required | Print or show on your phone |
| Payment Receipt | ✅ Required | Proof of ₱155 fee payment |
| Reference Number | ✅ Required | From your online application |
| Pen | Recommended | For filling out forms |
| OFW Documents | If applicable | OEC, OWWA membership, contract |
| Passport + ACR-I Card | Foreign nationals | Required for non-Filipino applicants |
Common Branch Visit Mistakes to Avoid
- ❌ Going to the wrong branch — you must visit the exact branch you selected during appointment booking
- ❌ Walking in without an appointment — most branches do not accept walk-ins. Book online first
- ❌ Arriving late — arrive 15–30 minutes before your scheduled time to avoid losing your slot
- ❌ Forgetting your IDs — bring at least 2 valid IDs; you will be turned away without them
- ❌ Not bringing your reference number — you need this to check in at the branch
- ❌ Wearing accessories that cover your face — remove hats, sunglasses, and heavy makeup before your photo
Expert Tips for Your NBI Branch Visit
- ✅ Book a morning slot on a weekday — shorter queues than afternoons and Saturdays
- ✅ Choose mall satellite offices — often better ventilated, accessible, and with nearby amenities
- ✅ Arrive 30 minutes early — gives you time to find the office, queue, and prepare your documents
- ✅ Dress simply for your photo — plain clothing, clean face, no accessories covering your features
- ✅ Bring a charger or power bank — you may need your phone to show your appointment confirmation
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the 30 most common questions about NBI clearance branches
Where are NBI clearance branches located?
NBI branches are located throughout the Philippines in regional offices, district offices, and satellite offices (often in malls). The NBI Main Office is in Ermita, Manila. Every region has at least one regional office.
How do I find the nearest NBI branch?
When you book your appointment online at clearance.nbi.gov.ph, you will see a list of available branches. Select the one nearest to you. Branches are listed by region and city.
Can I visit any NBI branch?
No. You must visit the specific branch you selected when booking your appointment. To change branches, cancel your current appointment and rebook.
What are NBI branch operating hours?
Most branches operate Monday to Saturday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Mall satellite offices may follow mall hours. Hours can vary — confirm with the specific branch before visiting.
Do NBI branches accept walk-ins?
Generally no. Most branches require an online appointment. Some branches may accommodate walk-ins when slots are available, but this is not guaranteed.
Which branches handle foreign national applications?
NBI Main Office (Ermita, Manila) and designated satellite offices handle foreign national applications. Not all branches serve foreign nationals — check during appointment booking.
How early should I arrive at the NBI branch?
Arrive 15–30 minutes before your scheduled appointment time. This gives you time to locate the office, go through security, and prepare your documents.
Can I change my appointment branch?
Yes, but you need to cancel your current appointment first and rebook with a different branch selected. There is no extra fee, but availability depends on open slots.
What should I bring to the NBI branch?
Bring: 2 valid government-issued IDs, your appointment confirmation (printed or on phone), payment receipt, and your reference number. Check the full requirements.
How long does the NBI branch visit take?
A typical visit takes 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on the branch, time of day, and queue length. Morning visits on weekdays are usually faster. See our processing time guide.
Are satellite offices the same as regional offices?
No. Satellite offices are smaller, often located in malls, and handle standard applications and renewals. Regional offices are larger main facilities that offer more comprehensive services.
Do all branches have the same fees?
Yes. The NBI clearance fee is ₱155 nationwide regardless of branch location. However, convenience fees for certain payment methods may vary.
Which branches have the shortest waiting time?
Mall satellite offices and newer branches often have shorter wait times. Visiting on a weekday morning (Tuesday–Thursday) generally means shorter queues than Mondays, Fridays, or Saturdays.
Do branches offer delivery services?
Yes. You can opt for home delivery during the application process, regardless of which branch you visit for biometrics.
Are NBI branches open on weekends?
Most branches are open on Saturdays but closed on Sundays. Mall satellite offices may have different weekend schedules. Check the specific branch when booking.
Can I apply at a branch outside my region?
Yes. You can apply at any NBI branch nationwide — there is no residency requirement. Choose whichever branch is most convenient for you.
What if I miss my appointment?
If you miss your scheduled appointment, you will need to rebook online. Your payment is typically still valid for rebooking, but check the NBI portal for their current policy.
Do branches have parking?
Mall satellite offices have mall parking. Standalone NBI offices may have limited parking. If driving, arrive early to secure a spot. Public transport is often more convenient for city branches.
Are branches accessible for persons with disabilities?
Most NBI branches accommodate PWDs with priority lanes. Mall satellite offices are generally more accessible. If you have specific accessibility needs, contact the branch in advance.
Can I bring companions to the NBI branch?
Companions are generally allowed but may need to wait outside the processing area. Minors and persons who need assistance may be accompanied inside.
Do branches have OFW priority lanes?
Many branches have dedicated OFW lanes for faster processing. Bring your OEC, OWWA documents, or proof of overseas employment to access these lanes.
What happens if I get a HIT at the branch?
If you receive a HIT, your clearance will not be released same-day. You will need to return after 7–14 days for clearance or further processing. This happens at any branch.
Is there a dress code for NBI branches?
There is no strict dress code, but wear presentable clothing. Avoid sleeveless tops in some government offices. For your photo: plain clothing, no hats, no sunglasses, minimal makeup.
Can I pick up someone else's clearance?
Generally no. You must personally pick up your clearance. For home delivery, someone at your registered address can receive it on your behalf.
Do branches close on holidays?
Yes. NBI branches are closed on national holidays. Check the official calendar before planning your visit, especially around long weekends and holiday seasons.
Are there branches in provinces?
Yes. Every region has at least one NBI office. Provincial capitals and major cities typically have district offices or satellite offices. Check clearance.nbi.gov.ph for the complete list.
Can I report issues with a branch?
Report concerns through the NBI's official website, their social media channels, or by calling the NBI hotline. You can also file a report through the government's complaint channels.
Do I need to book a specific time slot?
Yes. When booking online, you select both your branch and time slot. You should arrive during your scheduled window. Arriving at a different time may result in longer waits or being asked to rebook.
Is the process the same at all branches?
Yes. The NBI clearance process is standardized nationwide: check-in, document verification, biometrics (fingerprints and photo), payment verification, and clearance release (if no HIT).
Where is the NBI Main Office?
The NBI Main Office (Headquarters) is located at Taft Avenue, Ermita, Manila. It is the primary office for foreign national applications and handles the widest range of NBI services.
Related NBI Clearance Guides
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