NBI Clearance: How to Apply Online – Video
Requirements, Fees and What to Expect
Need an NBI clearance in the Philippines? Whether you need one for a new job, visa application, overseas employment, business requirements, or another official purpose, the application process is relatively straightforward once you know what to do.
The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) now allows applicants to complete the main application process online before visiting an NBI clearance office. Applicants can register, complete their personal information, select a branch and schedule, and pay online before going to the branch for biometrics and verification. The NBI’s official office locator specifically advises applicants to apply and pay online before visiting a clearance office.
In this guide, Dumaguete.com walks you through the NBI clearance process from start to finish — including the online application, payment, requirements, branch appointment, biometrics, and what happens if your application receives a “HIT.”
Watch Our NBI Clearance Step-by-Step Video
If you prefer to see the entire process explained visually, watch our Dumaguete.com NBI Clearance guide below.
The video takes you through the online registration process, choosing your NBI branch and appointment, payment, what to bring to your appointment, and what happens when you arrive at the NBI office.
What Is an NBI Clearance?
An NBI clearance is an official document issued by the National Bureau of Investigation that is commonly used to establish whether an applicant has a record or a potential name match in the NBI’s database.
It is frequently requested by employers and government agencies and may also be required for applications involving overseas employment, immigration, visas, professional or business requirements, and other official transactions. The NBI operates an official online clearance portal where applicants can register and apply for clearance services.
How to Apply for an NBI Clearance Online
The first part of the process can be completed online through the official NBI Clearance portal.
1. Register or Log In
Go to the official NBI Clearance Online Registration and Application Services portal.
If you already have an account, log in using your existing credentials.
If you are a new applicant, select the registration option and provide the required information. Make sure you use an active mobile number and email address because the registration process may require an OTP or One-Time Password.
Official NBI Clearance Portal:
https://clearance.nbi.gov.ph/
The NBI’s official portal also provides separate facilities for online renewal and first-time job seekers.
2. Complete Your Applicant Information
After logging into your account, complete the Applicant Information Form.
You will be asked to provide personal information and other details, including information relating to your family background and education or employment.
Take your time when entering your information.
Your name and other important personal details should match your valid identification documents exactly. Before continuing, review everything carefully and save your information.
3. Click “Apply for Clearance”
Once your profile is complete, select Apply for Clearance.
The system will ask you to identify the government-issued ID you plan to bring when you visit the NBI branch.
Make sure the ID you select is one you can actually present during your appointment.
4. Select an NBI Branch and Appointment
Next, select the NBI clearance office where you want to complete the physical portion of your application.
The NBI provides an online office locator where applicants can find clearance offices throughout the Philippines.
Select an available appointment date and time.
If you are applying in or around Dumaguete, the NBI’s official directory currently lists the Dumaguete District Office (DUMDO) in the Capitol Area, Daro, Dumaguete City. The listed office hours are 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Important: Office schedules and available appointment slots can change, so check the official NBI information before travelling.
How Much Does an NBI Clearance Cost?
The amount you pay depends on the applicable NBI service and payment charges.
The NBI’s current online application instructions list a ₱130 basic clearance fee, plus an electronic payment service charge. The online system will show the amount due during the payment process.
The NBI Citizen’s Charter also lists different fees for its clearance services, which is another reason applicants should rely on the amount generated by the official transaction system rather than an old fee quoted on another website.
Payment options available through the online application process can include:
- GCash
- Maya
- 7-Eleven
- Bayad Center
- Online banking
Available payment channels can change, so follow the options displayed in your NBI transaction.
Keep Your Reference Number
One of the most important things after selecting your payment method is the Reference Number.
Save it.
Take a screenshot, write it down, or print it.
You will need this reference information for your transaction and when you visit the NBI branch.
Once your transaction is successfully paid, check your online account before heading to the branch.
NBI Clearance Requirements: What Should You Bring?
Before going to your appointment, prepare your documents.
According to the NBI’s current application instructions, applicants should bring:
- Your printed or digital NBI Reference Number or QR code
- Proof of payment or receipt
- Two valid government-issued IDs
Examples of acceptable identification documents listed by the NBI include a Philippine passport, driver’s license, National ID, UMID, Postal ID, and other qualifying government-issued documents.
The NBI Citizen’s Charter likewise identifies two valid government-issued identification cards as a requirement for its standard clearance application.
Make sure your identification documents are original and valid.
First-Time Job Seekers
If you are applying as a first-time job seeker and want to use the benefits provided under Republic Act No. 11261, additional documentation applies. The NBI identifies a Barangay Certification for first-time job seeker status among the requirements, together with the required identification documents. First-time job seekers should use the appropriate NBI facility and carefully follow the current instructions before completing their application.
What Happens at the NBI Branch?
Once you have completed the online application and payment, you can proceed to your selected NBI clearance office according to your transaction and appointment instructions.
Biometrics
At the branch, your application will be processed and your biometric information captured.
This can include:
- Digital photograph
- Fingerprints
- Electronic signature
Your Reference Number or QR code will be used to locate your application.
Verify Your Information
Before your clearance is finalized, an NBI officer may ask you to review your personal information on a screen. This is an important step.
Check your name, date of birth, address and other information carefully before confirming that everything is correct. If you notice an error, point it out to the officer before the document is printed.
What Does “HIT” Mean on an NBI Clearance?
One of the most common questions applicants have is:
“What does HIT mean on my NBI clearance?”
A HIT does not automatically mean that you have a criminal record.
A name match or similar name in the NBI database can cause an application to be flagged for additional verification. If there is no HIT, the application can normally proceed toward printing once the other processing steps have been completed. If there is a HIT, the applicant may be asked to return on a specified date after additional verification. The NBI’s current application guide explains that applicants with a HIT may need to wait for further verification, with the guide indicating that this can commonly take around five to ten working days.
So if you receive a HIT, don’t panic.
Follow the instructions provided by the NBI officer and return on the date you are given.
NBI Clearance in Dumaguete
For residents of Dumaguete and nearby areas, the official NBI directory lists the Dumaguete District Office (DUMDO) at:
NBI, Br. 32 Bldg.
Capitol Area
Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental
The NBI’s regional and district office directory lists telephone numbers for the Dumaguete District Office, while the clearance office directory lists its operating hours as 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
The NBI has also expanded clearance services in Negros Oriental. In August 2026, the agency announced the inauguration of the NBI Mabinay Clearance Center, intended to make clearance services more accessible to residents of Mabinay and surrounding municipalities.
Before travelling, always check the official NBI office information and your appointment details.
Can You Renew an NBI Clearance Online?
If you have previously obtained an NBI clearance, you may be eligible to use the NBI Clearance Online Renewal service. The official NBI portal currently provides an online renewal option, including a delivery service for eligible applicants. The online renewal process can be particularly convenient if your personal information has not changed and you meet the applicable renewal requirements. However, don’t assume that every previous clearance automatically qualifies for renewal. Check the current options displayed on the official NBI portal before starting the transaction.
Quick Tips for a Smooth NBI Clearance Application
A few simple preparations can make your NBI clearance appointment easier.
Check Your Information
Before submitting your application, carefully check your name, birthday and other personal information.
Keep Your Reference Number
Do not delete the confirmation message or screenshot containing your Reference Number.
Bring Your Original IDs
Don’t rely on photographs or photocopies when the NBI requires original identification documents.
Dress Appropriately
Your photograph will be part of the clearance process, so wear appropriate clothing. The NBI’s current application guide advises applicants to avoid items such as tank tops, shorts and slippers and recommends smart-casual or collared clothing.
Check Before You Travel
Office locations, hours, appointment availability and procedures can change.
Always check the official NBI information before making a trip.
FAQ about the NBI Clearance in the Philippines
How do I get an NBI clearance?
Register through the official NBI Clearance portal, complete your application, choose a branch and appointment, pay online, and visit the branch for biometrics and verification.
What are the requirements for an NBI clearance?
Standard applicants need their Reference Number, proof of payment, and two valid government-issued IDs. Additional requirements may apply to special applicants.
How much is an NBI clearance?
The basic clearance fee listed in the current NBI online application guide is ₱130, plus the applicable electronic payment service charge.
What does HIT mean on an NBI clearance?
A HIT generally means the application requires additional verification because of a possible name match or similar record in the NBI database.
Final Thoughts
Getting an NBI clearance doesn’t have to be complicated.
The most important thing is to complete the online application correctly, keep your Reference Number safe, bring the required original identification documents, and follow the instructions given by the NBI.
For applicants in Dumaguete, the official NBI directory provides the Dumaguete District Office information, while the NBI has also expanded clearance services to other areas of Negros Oriental. And if you want to see the entire process rather than simply read about it, watch our Dumaguete.com NBI Clearance step-by-step video at the beginning of this article.
For the latest application information, always refer to the official NBI Clearance portal and NBI website.
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