I was recently in need of an NBI clearance, so I went to the National Bureau of Investigation’s website to check the procedure on applying for one. Good thing I did because I found out that they are already implementing the “No Appointment, No Entry Policy” for NBI clearance applicants.
This means that all applicants need to register online and have their appointment date set in advance.
I went through the whole process and outlined a step-by-step guide on how to get an NBI Clearance below. You’re welcome!
Online Registration:
Go to the official NBI clearance application website: https://www.nbi-clearance.com/
This is how the page should look. If you have an old NBI clearance with an NBI ID Number, fill out the Register form with the required information and click PROCEED. However, if this is your first time to secure an NBI clearance, check the NO checkbox instead.
In my case, I have no idea where I put my old NBI clearance, so I checked the NO checkbox. If you’re like me, you should be seeing the Register form below. Fill out the required fields and tick the “I accept the terms of service” checkbox. When the terms of service pops-up, click the AGREE button. Then, click the SIGN UP button.
A confirmation box will appear summarizing the information you entered, click the YES button.
TA-DA!! You’ve just completed your registration. Congratulations!
Application for Clearance:
Now, you can sign-in by typing the email address and password in the upper right corner of the page. Then click the SIGN IN button.
After you log-in, you should be seeing an interface like below. Click the APPLY FOR CLEARANCE button at the upper right corner to start your application.
An information sheet will appear (refer to image below) where you can input all the information required by NBI to validate you identity. When you’re done, click the SAVE INFORMATION button.
The website will then require you to input a pin code. There is no guideline as to the minimum or maximum allowable digits, so I just entered a 6-digit numerical pin code. Memorize it! Or if you’re like me who can only memorize things up to 10 seconds, WRITE. IT. DOWN. PLEASE! Because you will be needing it for future transactions like quick renewal, delivery service, or any other related NBI services. Click SUBMIT.
Next, you will be asked what identification you’ll bring during your appointment. I just typed “passport” and clicked the I AGREE button.
Setting an Appointment:
Now, we set an appointment! First step is to select an NBI Branch from the drop-down menu. I chose Robinson’s Otis because I’ve read that very few applicants choose that branch and it turned out to be true! As you can see below, I registered on June 28, 2017 and the earliest available slot is for the next day already. Pak! And that was because it was already night time when I looked this up. Last time I registered, slots were open on the same day!
You can either choose the AM or PM appointment by clicking on the blue rectangular thing-y on the calendar. Once you click it, the details of your appointment schedule will automatically appear on the right side of the form.
Then fill out the Purpose and Purpose Detail fields on the right side. This will be the basis for the amount due from you. I guess when the purpose of your application is going/working abroad, it’s more expensive. Sorry, I did not test it. Boo me!
Payment Options:
Next step is to choose your preferred payment option. In the website, there are 7 payment options. But when I clicked the Mobile Payment, it says “GCASH is currently having system maintenance”, so we’re down to 6 payment options. I chose the Bank Over the Counter option. The website provided me with a reference number, account number, and account name to use when I make my deposit at the bank.
Once payment is complete, you may return to the website and sign in to your account. Click the TRANSACTIONS tab on the upper left part of the page to view your application. The status of your application should be PAID. Also, take note of your Reference Number as it will serve as your entry pass to the NBI branch. Your application should look like this:
When you click on the DETAILS button, your appointment schedule summary will appear, like so:
If you can’t see the picture, I’ll reiterate that printing of application form is NOT necessary. You can list down your reference number in a sheet or take a photo of it using your mobile phone.
That’s it! You’re all set!
THE EXPERIENCE:
The NBI Branch is located at the second floor of Robinson’s Otis. I chose the AM schedule but I got there at around 12:43PM (classic tardy Krystal). Good thing the staffs at NBI still accommodated my application. Thanks, mga bes!
When I arrived, I was a little hesitant because there was no queue. In my head I thought, lunch break ba nila? The staff on Window 1 was even happy to see me approaching. Was she that bored? Maybe? Because there’s literally no other applicant. When I gave her my reference number, she said the application is already paid, so I should go straight to Window 2.
On Window 2, I was quickly entertained. They took my photo and captured my bio-metrics. The staff told me to stay at the waiting area while they print my NBI clearance. I sat down and in less than a minute, my name was called. The guy from Window 3 handed me my NBI clearance. It was unbelievably fast! I was in and out in less than 9 minutes. Good job, guys!
If you’re not sure where’s the branch near you, you can check the list of 55 NBI sites nationwide here.
Also, if you got a “hit” during your NBI clearance application (meaning, you have the same exact full name as someone in the country), you may opt to have your NBI clearance delivered so you won’t have to go back to the branch to pick it up. Just remember, you’ll need your Pin Code!
That’s it, guys. Thank you for reading and I hope this post helps you on your application.