If you are applying for an NBI Clearance for work, travel or immigration abroad you might have noticed questions about the “What NBI Clearance Color for Abroad?”. In the past many applicants were confused because they did not know if they needed the yellow copy or the blue copy of the NBI Clearance. But starting 2025 this has changed.
Now, the NBI only gives a blue multi-purpose clearance. This single clearance can be used for both local and abroad needs.
Why Did the NBI Change the System?
In the past the NBI used to give clearances in different colors:
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Blue Clearance: This was for local use only (inside the Philippines).
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Yellow Clearance: This was for people who needed it abroad.
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Green Clearance: This was given for older or special purposes.
This system made it easy to know what each clearance was for but it also caused problems. Some people got confused when they needed their clearance for more than one reason. To make things simpler the NBI clearance ph decided to stop using different colors and introduced one single clearance that can be used for everything.
Now, whether you are applying for a job in the Philippines or using it for a visa in another country the same blue clearance is accepted everywhere. This change makes the process faster avoids the need to ask for different documents and helps prevent duplicates.
NBI Clearance Color in 2025
The official NBI Clearance for abroad is now BLUE in color.
The NBI has made its system simpler and now gives only one type of clearance. No matter if you are applying for a job in the Philippines or for something abroad like a visa, travel or work. You will get the same blue-colored clearance certificate.
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Standard Color: Blue – The clearance is now only given in blue.
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Multi-purpose: This one blue clearance can be used both inside the Philippines and abroad.
- Status of Yellow and Green Clearances: These are no longer given and they are not valid to use anymore.
This means that if you are going abroad for work, immigration or study you only need to show the blue multi-purpose clearance. You don’t have to worry about getting different colors for different purposes.
What Happened to the Yellow NBI Clearance?
In the past the yellow NBI Clearance was used only for abroad. People who needed it for jobs, immigration or visas outside the Philippines were told to get the yellow copy.
But this system caused a lot of confusion and double work for applicants. To make the process easier the NBI decided to remove the yellow clearance completely.
Now, there is only one color blue. The blue NBI Clearance is valid for both local and international purposes.
Validity of NBI Clearance for Abroad
The NBI Clearance is only valid for one (1) year from the date it is given whether it is for local use or for abroad. After one year you must renew it if you still need it for work, travel or visa purposes. Most embassies and agencies abroad do not accept expired NBI Clearances so always check the date before you submit it.
Tip: If your job interview or travel abroad is still months away make sure your clearance will still be valid on that date.
How to Apply for NBI Clearance for Abroad
Applying for an NBI Clearance for abroad is almost the same as applying for a local one. The only difference is you must choose the right purpose. Follow these steps:
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Register Online:
Go to the official NBI Clearance website https://clearance.nbi.gov.ph/. Make an account or log in if you already have one. -
Fill Out the Form:
Type in your details like name, address and the reason for applying. -
Choose Purpose – “Travel Abroad / Visa / Immigration”:
This is very important so the system knows you need the Blue clearance. -
Pick Date and Branch:
Select the schedule and NBI office where you want to apply. -
Pay the Fee:
The fee is about ₱130, plus ₱25 if you pay online. -
Go to Your Appointment:
Bring your valid IDs. At the NBI they will take your picture and fingerprints. -
Get Your Clearance:
After processing, you will receive your Blue NBI Clearance for abroad.
Important Details to Remember for NBI Clearance Color for Abroad
No More Yellow Paper: Even if you are applying for a clearance to use abroad you will still receive the blue clearance.
Embassy Acceptance: All embassies, consulates and immigration offices now accept the blue multi-purpose clearance.
Overseas Applicants: If you are living abroad you can apply for your clearance through the Philippine Embassy or Consulate but the process may take longer than applying in the Philippines.
Renewal: If you had a yellow clearance before you must renew it and you will be given the new blue multi-purpose clearance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Do I still need a yellow NBI Clearance for abroad?
No The yellow clearance is no longer used. Only the blue multi-purpose clearance is valid and it works for both local and international purposes.
Q2: How long is the NBI Clearance valid?
The NBI Clearance is valid for one year starting from the date it was given to you.
Q3: Can I use the blue clearance abroad?
Yes The blue NBI clearance is accepted if you need it for overseas jobs, visa applications or immigration needs.
Q4: What if I still have my old yellow clearance?
Your old yellow clearance is no longer valid. You must apply for the new blue multi-purpose clearance instead.
Q5: How long does processing take?
If your name has no “hit” you can get your clearance on the same day. If there is a hit it may take around 8–10 working days before you receive it.
Final Thoughts
As of 2025 the answer to the question “What is the color of NBI Clearance for abroad?” is very simple: blue. The NBI now gives out only one type of clearance the blue multi-purpose clearance and this works for both local and international needs.
This change makes the process easier for applicants. It removes confusion about which color to get and make sure that embassies and employers abroad accept the same official document. So if you are planning to work overseas or apply for a visa you just need to secure the blue NBI multi-purpose clearance.
