NBI Clearance for Foreigners is an official paper given by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) in the Philippines. It shows that a foreigner has no criminal record in the country. Foreigners need this clearance for many important reasons, such as getting a job, applying for a visa, immigration needs or starting a business.
This guide will show NBI Clearance For Foreigners Online Registration, how foreigners can apply for NBI Clearance online, what documents are needed and give step-by-step instructions to make the application smooth and simple.
What Is NBI Clearance for Foreigners?
NBI Clearance for foreigners is a background check certificate issued to non-Filipino citizens who are staying or have stayed in the Philippines.
It shows whether the applicant has:
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A criminal record.
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A pending court case.
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Any legal “hit” in the NBI database.
This clearance is different from the NBI clearance issued to Filipino citizens.
Who Needs NBI Clearance in the Philippines?
Foreign nationals who usually need NBI clearance include:
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Foreign workers.
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Foreign students.
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Business owners.
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Retirees.
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Expatriates.
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Permanent or temporary residents.
If you stayed in the Philippines for six months or more you are normally required to apply.
Why Foreigners Need NBI Clearance
Foreigners need NBI clearance for many official reasons. Below are the most common ones.
Employment Purposes
Companies require NBI clearance before hiring foreign employees to verify their background.
Visa and Immigration Processing
The Bureau of Immigration often asks for NBI clearance when:
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Extending a visa.
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Changing visa status.
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Applying for permanent residency.
Business Registration
Foreign investors need NBI clearance to legally register a business in the Philippines.
Government and Legal Transactions
It is required for:
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Government permits.
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Court documents.
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Professional licenses.
Requirements of NBI Clearance For Foreigners
Before applying NBI online make sure you have:
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Original passport (valid).
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Photocopy of passport bio page.
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Latest visa or ACR I-Card.
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NBI Clearance application form.
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Official payment receipt.
Step-by-Step Guide NBI Clearance Online Registration for Foreigners
1. Go to the Official NBI Website
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Visit the NBI Clearance portal at https://clearance.nbi.gov.ph/.
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Create an account if you do not have one.
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Use your full legal name as shown on your passport.
2. Fill Out the Application Form
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Enter your personal details: name, birthday, nationality, address in the Philippines and contact number.
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Add your ACR I-Card number and visa type.
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Make sure all info matches your documents.
3. Schedule an Appointment
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Choose an NBI branch for fingerprints and photo.
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Pick a date and time that works for you.
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Confirm to get a reference number.
If you are a foreigner and want to renew your NBI Clearance It is also very easy you can do it online.
4. Pay the Fee Online
Foreigners can pay NBI Fee using:
- GCash
- Online banking
- Partner banks (over-the-counter)
- Keep your receipt and reference number for the NBI office.
5. Prepare Your Documents
Bring these on your appointment day:
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Printed NBI application form
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Passport and photocopy
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ACR I-Card and photocopy
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Payment receipt
You need to submitted all documents at the NBI Clearance Office, which is located at U.N Avenue, Ermita, Manila.
6. Go to the NBI Branch
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You will have fingerprinting
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Digital photo taken
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Information verification
If all documents are correct, your application will be processed smoothly.
7. Get Your NBI Clearance
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If there are no problems, you can get it the same day.
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If there is a “hit” (name match), extra checking may take a few days.
If you are a foreigner and applying for an NBI clearance, it take little longer than Filipino citizens. While Filipino citizens can claim their clearance on the same day, foreigners have to wait at least six days.
Conclusion
Getting an NBI Clearance for foreigners in the Philippines is easier now because of the online registration system. If you prepare your documents, register online, pay the fee and go to your appointment the process will be simple and smooth. Having an updated NBI Clearance helps with jobs, visas or legal requirements making it an important document for all foreigners living in the Philippines.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1: Can foreigners apply for NBI Clearance without a Philippine visa?
No it is not possible A valid Philippine visa or ACR I-Card is required to apply legally.
2: How much is the NBI Clearance fee for foreigners?
The fee is the same as for local applicants it is around ₱130 plus a ₱25 convenience fee if paying online.
3: Can foreigners renew their old NBI Clearance?
Yes Foreigners with a previous NBI Clearance can renew online using the reference number from their old NBI clearance.
4: How long does it take to get NBI Clearance?
Same day release is possible if there are no hits. Otherwise verification may take a few days.
5: Can I submit digital copies instead of originals?
No NBI requires original documents during your appointment for verification.
