NBI Clearance from Abroad — Complete Guide for OFWs 2026

The NBI (National Bureau of Investigation) clearance is one of the most commonly required documents for OFWs — needed for employment, visa applications, and legal transactions. Here is how to obtain or renew your NBI clearance while living overseas.

Good news: The NBI now accepts online applications for overseas Filipinos. You can apply through the NBI Clearance Online portal and have it processed without returning to the Philippines.

How to Get NBI Clearance from Abroad

Option 1: Through the Philippine Embassy

  1. Contact your nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate to check if they process NBI clearance applications
  2. Schedule an appointment (if required)
  3. Submit: valid passport, completed NBI application form, 2x2 photos, fingerprints
  4. Pay the processing fee (~USD 15–25)
  5. Embassy forwards application to NBI Manila
  6. Processing time: 4–8 weeks
  7. Collect at the embassy or receive via courier

Option 2: NBI Online (via Representative)

  1. Visit clearance.nbi.gov.ph
  2. Create an account and fill out the application
  3. Pay online (PHP 155 for NBI clearance)
  4. Authorise a representative in the Philippines via Special Power of Attorney (SPA)
  5. Representative appears at the NBI office for biometrics on your behalf (with SPA + your valid ID copies)
  6. Processing: 1–10 working days (if no "hit")

Option 3: When Visiting the Philippines

  1. Apply online at clearance.nbi.gov.ph
  2. Pay PHP 155 online
  3. Visit any NBI branch or satellite office for biometrics
  4. Receive clearance same day (if no "hit") or within 10 days

Apostille Requirements

If your NBI clearance needs to be used in a foreign country, it may need to be apostilled (authenticated):

  • The Philippines is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention (since May 2019)
  • NBI clearances can be apostilled at the DFA Office of Consular Affairs in Manila
  • Apostille fee: PHP 100 per document
  • Processing: same day (DFA Aseana) or 3–5 days (other offices)
  • For countries NOT in the Hague Convention, you need red ribbon authentication from the DFA

Related Pages

PSA Documents

Birth cert, CENOMAR

Passport Renewal

ePassport overseas

OFW Guide

Complete handbook

NBI Quick Facts
  • Fee: PHP 155 (online)
  • Validity: 1 year
  • Processing: 1–10 days (PH), 4–8 weeks (abroad)
  • Apostille: PHP 100 at DFA
  • Website: clearance.nbi.gov.ph
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