If you're outside the Philippines (mailed clearance)
These steps come from the NBI's official "Mailed Clearance (Applying from Abroad)" page.
Get the application form
Secure NBI Clearance Application Form (Form No. 5) from the Philippine embassy or consular office, or through an authorized representative at the NBI Mailed Clearance Section.
Fill it in without erasures
Married women: list your father's surname, husband's surname, first name, and your mother's maiden name as your middle name.
Get fingerprinted
Go to the Philippine embassy, consular office or nearest police station. The fingerprints must be a rolled impression.
Attach your documents
A 2x2 photo with a white background taken within the last three months and a photocopy of your passport's biodata page.
Pay and send
The total is ₱200 (or the USD equivalent): ₱130 clearance fee + ₱70 mailing cost. Mail it directly or through an authorized representative in the Philippines.
Mailing address (from nbi.gov.ph):
National Bureau of Investigation
Mailed Clearance Section
3rd Floor, NBI Clearance Building
UN Avenue, Ermita, Manila, Philippines 1000
Processing: up to five (5) working days from when the NBI receives your documents, plus mailing time both ways.
Using a representative in the Philippines: they register online at clearance.nbi.gov.ph, select the NBI Main Clearance Center, choose a payment channel and get a reference number.
Contact: mailed.clearance@nbi.gov.ph · 0915 689 3113 · 0920 122 3327
Renewing from abroad? If you're a verified eGovPH user, the eGovPH app's NBI eClearance may let you renew online. See NBI clearance renewal.
If you're in the Philippines and need it for abroad
- Check which clearance they want. Embassies and immigration offices usually ask for the NBI clearance, not a police clearance.
- Check how recent it must be. Many want one issued within the last few months, even though an NBI clearance is generally valid for a year.
- Apply the normal way: how to get an NBI clearance. Use your passport as one of your IDs so the names match.
- Get it apostilled if required. Many countries need the clearance authenticated (apostilled) by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA). The DFA has a special online process for NBI clearances: see our DFA apostille guide.
Plan backwards from your deadline: clearance (plus a possible HIT of 5–10 working days), then the DFA apostille, then courier time. Start at least a month early.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a police clearance for a work visa?
Usually not. Most foreign offices ask for the NBI clearance. Confirm with the embassy or employer.
Can a relative in the Philippines get my NBI clearance for me?
For the mailed clearance process, an authorized representative can submit your application and handle payment. You still need your own fingerprints taken abroad.
Does the NBI clearance need to be translated?
The NBI clearance is in English. Some non-English-speaking countries may still ask for a certified translation, so check their rules.