Many Filipinos who live or work in Singapore need an NBI Clearance. You need this Certificate for jobs, visa applications, moving to another country, government needs or personal records. Even if you are already in another country the Philippines still needs to check your background.
Some OFWs think they cannot get an NBI Clearance while they are abroad but this is wrong. You can still apply. The steps are a little longer than applying in the Philippines but it is still easy if you follow the correct process. This updated guide will help you get your NBI Clearance in Singapore without any problems.
What is NBI Clearance and Why Do Filipinos in Singapore Need It?
NBI Clearance is an important Certificate from the Philippines. It is given by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI). It shows that you do not have any criminal record or case in the Philippines.
Filipinos in Singapore often need NBI Clearance for:
• Working overseas
• Renewing a work pass or applying for PR
• Moving to another country
• Getting visas for travel
• Business or legal papers
• Government needs in the Philippines
So whether you just arrived in Singapore or you have been here for a long time having an NBI Clearance is still very important. It helps prove that you have a clean record and makes many official processes easier.
Requirements for NBI Clearance in Singapore
Make sure you have these things ready:
- Valid Philippine passport.
- Two passport-size photos with a white background.
- Fingerprint form (FD-258) that you already filled out.
- A valid ID from Singapore (like EP, S Pass, Work Permit or NRIC if you are a PR).
- An authorization letter if someone in the Philippines will claim the clearance for you.
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for NBI Clearance from Singapore
Step 1: Make an NBI Online Account
Go to the official NBI website and sign up. Use a real email and remember your password.
Step 2: Fill Out the Form Online
Write your personal details correctly like your name your date of birth and adress. Wrong information can slow down your application.
Step 3: Book an Appointment in the Philippines
Even if you are in Singapore the system needs you to pick a date and branch in the Philippines. You don’t have to go there it is only for the system.
Step 4: Get the Fingerprint Card (FD-258)
Download it from the NBI website or get one from the Philippine Embassy in Singapore.
Step 5: Have Your Fingerprints Taken
Go to one of these places:
• Singapore Police Force.
• Philippine Embassy in Singapore.
• Any licensed fingerprint service.
Bring your passport and the fingerprint card. The officer will stamp and sign the paper.
Step 6: Pay the NBI Fee
You can pay online or ask someone in the Philippines to pay for you. The cost is usually around ₱130 to ₱200 (extra service fees may be added).
Step 7: Send Your Papers to the Philippines
Use a courier like LBC, DHL or FedEx to send your fingerprint card and other documents to your representative or directly to the NBI office.
Where to Get Fingerprints Done in Singapore
Most people go to the Singapore Police Force Criminal Records Office to get their fingerprints taken. Always bring your ID and the FD-258 fingerprint form with you.
You can also use private fingerprint services but make sure the officer stamps and signs your fingerprint card so it will be accepted by the NBI.
Check It: How to Recover Lost NBI Reference Number?
Cost of NBI Clearance Processing from Singapore
Here are the usual costs of NBI Clearance:
- NBI fee: ₱130 to ₱200.
- Fingerprinting fee: SGD 10 to SGD 60 (depends on where you go).
- Courier fee: SGD 20 to SGD 60.
Processing Time and Delivery of NBI Clearance
This is how long the process usually takes:
- Getting fingerprints and sending documents: about 3 to 5 days.
- NBI processing in the Philippines: about 3 to 10 working days.
- If you want the NBI Clearance mailed back to Singapore: about 7 to 14 days.
Final Thoughts
Getting your NBI Clearance while in Singapore might seem hard at first but it becomes easy when you follow the steps properly. Just prepare all the needed papers, plan early and always check your information.
Having a clear and updated NBI Clearance helps you with work, visas and other important things. It is very helpful for Filipinos in Singapore who are working and planning for their future.
FAQS
Q1: How to Get NBI Clearance if You Are Abroad?
If you are in another country you can still get your NBI Clearance. You just need someone you trust in the Philippines to claim it for you. Your application will be handled by the Mailed Clearance Section of the NBI which is on the 3rd floor of the NBI Clearance Building on UN Avenue in Manila.
Q2: How to Get Police Clearance in Singapore?
If you are a Singapore Citizen, a Permanent Resident or someone with a Foreign Identification Number (FIN) who lives in Singapore or overseas you can apply for a police clearance online.
Just log in using Singpass and fill out the online form at this link: https://go.gov.sg/spf-applyforcertificateofclearance
Q3: Can I Get My NBI Clearance Anywhere?
Yes you can! Just visit https://clearance.nbi.gov.ph and click the NBI Clearance Online Renewal button. Fill out the form and pay online. After that your NBI Clearance will be processed.
Q4: How to Get OEC in Singapore?
To get an OEC (Overseas Employment Certificate) in Singapore you need to prepare these:
• Your online appointment slip
• A POLO-verified work contract
• Your passport
• Your valid work visa (like your IPA or work pass)
• Your plane tickets
Make sure all your documents are complete so you can get your OEC without any problems.
Q5: How to Check Your Security Clearance in Singapore?
You can check the status of your security clearance online on the police website at the Status of Certificate of Clearance (COC) Application page.
If you have any questions or problems, you can send your inquiry through the SPF Feedback page on the same police website.
