NBI Appointment Online Philippines 2025
NBI appointment is the first and most important step when applying for your NBI Clearance in the Philippines. Whether you need it for a job, visa, or personal record check, the process is now faster and easier thanks to the NBI online system.
What Is an NBI Appointment?
An NBI appointment is an online booking that reserves your slot at an NBI Clearance Center. It sets the date, time, and branch where you’ll appear in person for your fingerprinting and photo capture.
You can’t walk in without an appointment. The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) requires all applicants to register and pay online before visiting a branch. Once you’ve paid, your appointment becomes active and linked to your reference number.
Schedule an NBI Appointment Online
Booking your NBI appointment online is straightforward. Follow these steps carefully to avoid delays or errors.
Step 1: Create an Account on the NBI Website
To get NBI Clearance Online, you need to create account first — and register with your full name, date of birth, and valid contact details.
If you’re a first-time job seeker, you can use https://firsttimejobseekers.nbi.gov.ph/. If you already have an account, just log in with your email and password.
Note: Use your real and complete details; mismatched information between your ID and the online form can cause “hit” or rejection.
Step 2: Fill Out the Application Form
After signing in, complete your personal profile including:
Make sure the information matches your government-issued ID exactly.
Step 3: Choose the NBI Branch and Schedule
Click on “Apply for Clearance”, then select your preferred branch. You’ll see available dates and time slots (AM or PM).
Popular branches like NBI Main in U.N. Avenue or Robinsons branches in Metro Manila often fill up quickly, so book in advance.
For faster processing, try to choose mid-week morning slots.
Step 4: Select Your Payment Method
After selecting your schedule, the system will generate a Reference Number and show you the payment options.
You can pay using:
Tip: The base fee is ₱130, plus around ₱25 for e-payment service fees.
Keep your payment receipt or confirmation. Your appointment will only be valid after successful payment.
Step 5: Go to Your Appointment
On your chosen date, visit the NBI branch you selected. Arrive 15–30 minutes early and bring:
At the branch, NBI staff will take your photo, fingerprints, and digital signature. The process usually takes 10–20 minutes.
What Happens After the Appointment
Once biometrics are complete, your application goes through verification.
You’ll know the status after your biometrics are processed.
Requirements for NBI Appointment
Before heading to your NBI branch, prepare the following:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Valid ID | Government-issued (Passport, UMID, Driver’s License, PhilID, Postal ID, etc.) |
| Payment Receipt | Proof of successful online payment |
| Reference Number | Generated after booking |
| Printed Application (optional) | Helps speed up verification |
| Dress Code | Smart casual — no slippers, tank tops, or shorts |
Always double-check that your name, birth date, and other details match your ID.
Free NBI Clearance for First-Time Job Seekers
Under Republic Act No. 11261 (First-Time Jobseekers Assistance Act), fresh graduates or first-time job seekers are entitled to free NBI Clearance and other government documents.
To qualify:
The same online process applies; you’ll simply choose the “First-Time Job Seeker” option when registering.
What to Do If You Miss Your Appointment
If you missed your scheduled day, don’t panic. According to reports and user experiences, your reference number remains valid for up to 15 days after your appointment date.
That means you can still go to your chosen branch within the grace period without rebooking. However, if you fail to go within that period, you’ll need to schedule and pay again.
Also Read: Minimum Wage in the Philippines 2025
Common Problems and Solutions
| Issue | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Appointment not showing | Cache or payment delay | Wait 24 hours, refresh portal |
| Mismatched name or birthdate | Typo during registration | Edit profile before booking |
| “Hit” status | Possible name match | Wait for clearance date given by NBI |
| Lost reference number | Payment app or email confirmation | Retrieve from your payment receipt |
| Invalid ID | Expired or damaged ID | Bring an alternative valid ID |
NBI Clearance Processing Time
Always check your receipt or ask the officer for your exact release date.
For OFWs and Foreigners
Foreign nationals and OFWs can also schedule their NBI appointment online.
Requirements may include:
Those outside the Philippines can apply through the Philippine Embassy or Consulate by mailing a fingerprint card and authorization letter.
NBI Appointment Validity and Renewal
Your NBI Clearance is valid for one year from the date of issuance.
For renewal:
You can even renew online and opt for door-to-door delivery in selected areas.
Tips for a Smooth NBI Appointment Experience
FAQs About NBI Appointment
1. Can I walk in for NBI clearance?
No. All applicants must book an online appointment before visiting any NBI branch.
2. How much is the NBI Clearance fee?
The base fee is ₱130 plus ₱25 e-payment fee (varies slightly per channel).
3. How long does it take to process?
Usually same-day for “no hit,” but 5–10 days if “with hit.”
4. What IDs are accepted?
Passport, UMID, Driver’s License, PhilID, SSS ID, Postal ID, and Voter’s ID.
5. Can I change my appointment date?
No, once confirmed, you cannot edit the schedule. You must book a new one if you can’t attend.
6. What happens if I forget my reference number?
Check your email or payment confirmation for your reference number — it’s essential for your appointment.
7. Can I get my clearance delivered?
Yes, in selected areas, NBI offers delivery through its online renewal service.
Summary
Booking your NBI appointment online is simple once you know the steps. The new system saves you from long queues and manual forms — you just need to follow instructions carefully, pay online, and arrive prepared.
Whether you’re applying for a job, visa, or business requirement, your NBI Clearance remains one of the most important identity documents in the Philippines.
