I finally claimed my National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) clearance yesterday after a one-week waiting period (because I had a ‘hit’), and I must say that the process is much easier and faster now compared to a few years before. I was in and out the building in less than fifteen minutes. The online application and third-party payment system really works. For the benefit of those who need to get their NBI clearance, let me outline the process.
How to get your NBI Clearance:
- Go to https://www.nbi-clearance.com and sign in (sign up if you don't have an account yet)
- Enter or update your personal information
- Create an application and select when and where you want to claim your NBI Clearance
- Write down the transaction reference number (which you will need when making your payment)
- Pay the clearance fee of 115 pesos (plus an e-payment processing fee of 25 pesos) online or at any bill-payment center, which can be found everywhere nowadays
- Show up at your chosen venue on the date that you selected to have your picture and fingerprints taken
- Wait for your NBI Clearance to be printed and released
In most cases you will get your NBI Clearance within a few minutes. However, in case you have a ‘hit’ (your name is similar to someone else who, unfortunately, has a derogatory record), you will have to return after one week while your application undergoes ‘quality control.’
That's how easy it is. Note, however, that November and December are nonpeak months as far as getting an NBI Clearance is concerned, and I selected a relatively remote location, Rodriguez, Rizal, to claim it. Your experience may vary.