NBI Appointment Philippines 2026: Online Booking, Registration & Requirements Guide

NBI Appointment is the official online booking system of the National Bureau of Investigation in the Philippines. It enables applicants to schedule an NBI Clearance application or renewal, choose a preferred branch, date, and time, make secure online payments, and reduce waiting times through a faster, more organised appointment process.

The National Bureau of Investigation (Philippines) (NBI) is the Philippines’ primary investigative agency responsible for handling major criminal cases, conducting national-level investigations, and maintaining criminal records. It was originally established in 1936 as the Division of Investigation and was later reorganised in 1947. The agency was influenced by the structure of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and focuses on solving significant crimes that affect public safety and national interest.

NBI Appointment is the official online scheduling platform of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) that allows applicants in the Philippines to arrange their NBI Clearance application or renewal before visiting an NBI branch.

Through the online appointment system, users can select their preferred branch, available date, and convenient time slot. It helps organise applicant visits, minimise long queues, and make the clearance process more efficient.

The platform also supports online payment options, allowing applicants to settle the required fees before going to the selected NBI office. After completing the appointment process, applicants can proceed to the branch on their scheduled date for verification and clearance processing.

The NBI Clearance fee depends on the type of application or service you choose. Payment must be completed online before your appointment can be confirmed.

Option	Total Fee (₱)	What’s Included
Standard Application or Pick-up	₱155	₱130 NBI Clearance fee + ₱25 e-payment service fee
Quick Renewal (Door-to-Door, Philippines only)	₱355	₱330 renewal and delivery fee + ₱25 e-payment service fee
First-Time Jobseekers (Qualified)	₱0	Fee waived under Republic Act No. 11261 with a valid Barangay Certificate
HIT Adjudication (If Applicable)	Additional fees may apply	Amount depends on the type of HIT verification required

Applicants should complete payment within the allowed payment period, usually before the app ointment deadline. Unpaid bookings may be automatically cancelled, while confirmed payments are generally non-refundable except for eligible technical issues.

How to Apply for an NBI Appointment?(Video Guide)

Applying for an National Bureau of Investigation (Philippines) (NBI) Clearance appointment online allows applicants to reserve their preferred schedule before visiting an NBI branch. The process can be completed from home by creating an account, verifying personal details, selecting valid IDs, booking an appointment, and paying the required fees.

Before scheduling an appointment, you need to register an account through the official NBI online appointment system.

During registration:

• Enter your personal information accurately.
• Review all details before submitting the form.
• Tick the box confirming that you agree to the terms of service.
• Complete the verification check to confirm you are not a bot.
• Click the “Sign Up” button to create your account.

Providing correct information is important because your account details will be used for your NBI Clearance application.

After creating your account, an OTP (One-Time Password) will be sent to your registered mobile number for verification.

To continue:

• Enter the OTP within the required time limit.
• Access your verified NBI account.
• Open the application information section.
• Complete all required fields marked with an asterisk (*), such as civil status and place of birth.
• Click “Save Information” after checking your details.

Review your information carefully. If you notice any mistake, use the “Edit Information” option before proceeding with your application.

Once everything is correct, select “Apply for Clearance” to continue.

The NBI system requires applicants to present valid identification documents during their appointment.

Choose two valid government-issued IDs that you will bring to the NBI branch, such as:

• Passport
• Driver’s License
• National ID
• PRC ID
• UMID Card

Make sure your selected IDs are valid and match the information provided in your application.

After selecting your IDs:

• Confirm your choices.
• Click “I Agree” to continue to appointment scheduling.

After completing registration and verification, you can select your preferred appointment details.

Follow these steps:

• Choose your preferred NBI Clearance branch.
• Select an available appointment date.
• Pick an available time slot.
• Review your appointment details.
• Click “Next” to confirm your schedule.

Applicants are generally required to have an appointment before visiting an NBI branch. Those without internet access may visit an NBI office for assistance with the registration process.

After booking your appointment, you will be redirected to the payment section.

Available payment options may include:

• ECPay
• Online banking
• Bank over-the-counter payment
• Bayad Center outlets
• Bayad Center Mobile App
• GCash
• 7-Eleven

Payment process:

1. Select your preferred payment method.
2. Click “Proceed.”
3. Save the generated payment reference number.
4. Complete the payment transaction.
5. Keep your payment receipt for your appointment day.

The NBI Clearance fee is ₱130, with an additional ₱25 service fee for some electronic payment methods, including GCash, 7-Eleven, or card payments.

On your scheduled appointment date, visit your selected NBI branch with the required documents.

Bring:

• Two valid government-issued IDs
• Appointment reference number
• Payment receipt or proof of payment

Applicants should wear appropriate clothing when visiting the NBI office. Avoid wearing sleeveless shirts, sportswear, or inappropriate outfits. It is also recommended to confirm the branch operating hours before travelling.

At the NBI branch, proceed to the information desk or ask NBI personnel for assistance.

The final processing usually includes:

• Verification of application details
• Fingerprint scanning
• Photo capture
• Final identity checking

If there is no record match or “HIT”, the NBI Clearance may be released on the same day.

If a “HIT” appears due to a possible name match with another record, additional verification may be required. Applicants are usually advised to return after the verification period, which may take around 7 to 10 working days.

The National Bureau of Investigation (Philippines) Online Appointment System makes the NBI Clearance application process faster, more organised, and more convenient. Instead of waiting in long queues, applicants can reserve a schedule online and complete most of the preparation before visiting an NBI branch.

You can book your NBI Clearance appointment from anywhere using an internet-connected device. The online system lets you choose your preferred branch, date, and time, making it easier to plan your visit. If necessary, you can also reschedule your appointment, subject to the system’s available options.

Booking an appointment in advance reduces waiting time at the NBI office. Since your schedule is already reserved, the overall application process becomes more efficient and helps you avoid lengthy queues at the branch.

The online appointment system provides clear information about the documents, valid IDs, fees, and application requirements you need before your scheduled visit. This helps applicants arrive fully prepared and reduces the chances of delays caused by missing requirements.

The use of digital registration, electronic payment records, and online appointment confirmations helps minimise paper consumption. This supports a more efficient and environmentally responsible application process.

The NBI online appointment portal is accessible at any time, allowing applicants to register, book appointments, and review their application details whenever it is most convenient, without being limited to office hours.

The system is designed to protect applicants’ personal information and payment details during registration and online transactions. Using the official NBI appointment portal helps ensure that your application is processed through a secure platform.

Bringing the correct documents to your National Bureau of Investigation (Philippines) appointment helps ensure a smooth and hassle-free clearance process. Missing or incorrect requirements may result in delays or require you to reschedule your visit.

Every applicant should bring the following on the day of the appointment:

• NBI Appointment Confirmation (printed or digital), showing your Reference Number or QR code.
• One original government-issued valid ID that matches the identification selected during your online application.
• Photocopy of your valid ID, as some NBI branches may request a copy during processing.

The NBI accepts various government-issued identification documents, including:

• Philippine Passport
• Driver’s License
• UMID Card
• SSS ID
• GSIS ID
• PhilHealth ID
• Voter’s ID or Voter’s Certification
• PRC ID or Professional License
• Postal ID (new format)
• National ID (PhilSys)
• School ID with a PSA Birth Certificate (for students)

Ensure that the information on your ID matches the details provided in your online application.

The following documents are generally not accepted as primary identification:

• Company or private employee IDs
• Barangay Clearance or Barangay Certificate
• Expired government-issued IDs
• Photocopies presented without the original ID

Always bring the original identification document to avoid delays.

Applicants claiming the free NBI Clearance benefit under Republic Act No. 11261 (First Time Jobseekers Assistance Act) must present a Barangay Certificate confirming their status as a first-time job seeker. Without this certificate, the regular clearance fee will apply.

Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and applicants outside the Philippines should process their application through the nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate.

Typically, they will need to:

• Obtain an official fingerprint card from the Embassy or Consulate.
• Complete the required application forms.
• Pay the applicable processing fee, which is commonly USD 25, depending on the location.

If your NBI Clearance will be used abroad, you only need to obtain a standard NBI Clearance during your appointment. The Apostille is processed separately through the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), and no additional requirements are needed at the NBI counter specifically for apostille purposes.

There is no official dress code from the NBI, but following a few practical guidelines can help ensure a smooth appointment.

Wear clean, decent, and comfortable clothing, as you may need to wait anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the branch and the number of applicants. If you wear a hijab or other religious head covering, it is permitted as long as your full face remains visible during biometric photo capture.

Avoid wearing sleeveless shirts, slippers, caps, or hats that cover your face. You should also remove bulky necklaces, scarves, sunglasses, or other accessories around your face and neck that could interfere with identity verification or biometric photography.

Pro Tip: Bring a bottle of water and arrive a little early, especially during busy months such as January, June, and November, when NBI branches typically experience higher applicant volumes and longer waiting times.

If you need to cancel your NBI appointment, sign in to your NBI account and open your active application. From the appointment details page, select Cancel Appointment and confirm your request. Once cancelled, you can book a new appointment if needed, subject to available schedules.

The ₱155 NBI Clearance fee is non-refundable once your payment has been successfully confirmed. Refunds are generally granted only in cases of technical system issues, such as duplicate or double-charged payments.

If you experience a payment-related system error, report the issue to the NBI helpdesk as soon as possible. Keep a copy of your payment receipt or transaction reference number, as it may be required to verify your claim and process any eligible refund request.

No. As of 2026, all NBI branches in the Philippines require applicants to have a confirmed online appointment before visiting for an NBI Clearance application or renewal. Walk-in applicants are generally not accepted, and those without a valid booking may be asked to schedule an appointment online before entering the branch.

This policy applies to main offices, regional and provincial branches, as well as mall-based satellite offices. Booking an appointment online usually takes only a few minutes and allows you to choose your preferred branch, date, and time. Having a confirmed appointment also helps reduce waiting times and ensures a more organised and efficient clearance process.

Whether you can be accommodated depends on when you arrive and the branch’s current queue. Here’s what you should know:

Arriving 10 to 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment is recommended. Some branches may process applicants slightly ahead of time if the queue is moving quickly. However, arriving several hours before your assigned time does not guarantee early processing.

You cannot visit the branch before your scheduled appointment date. Your booking is valid only for the specific date shown in your confirmation. If you arrive a day early, you will be asked to return on your scheduled appointment date.

If you arrive within 30 minutes of your appointment time, some branches may still accommodate you, depending on the queue. However, arriving one to two hours late may result in your appointment being considered missed, and you may need to reschedule.

For the smoothest experience, arrive 10 to 15 minutes early with your valid ID, payment confirmation, and other required documents. Follow the instructions provided by branch personnel upon arrival.

If you miss your scheduled NBI appointment without rescheduling beforehand, your appointment will be considered forfeited. Once this happens, your reserved time slot is released and made available to other applicants.

• Your appointment slot is automatically forfeited.
• The ₱155 application fee is non-refundable.
• You must log in to your NBI account and schedule a new appointment.
• A new booking requires a new payment before processing can continue.

At present, the NBI does not provide a formal emergency rebooking or exemption process for missed appointments. If you fail to attend your scheduled date and time, the practical solution is to start the appointment process again by creating a new booking and paying the required fee.

Pro Tip: To avoid missing your appointment, set reminders on your phone two days before and the evening before your scheduled visit. This simple step takes only a few seconds and can help you avoid losing your appointment and paying the ₱155 fee again.

A HIT is a status that appears when your name matches or closely resembles another record in the NBI database. It does not mean you have a criminal record.

If you receive a HIT:

• Your application will undergo manual verification.
• Your clearance will be released 3 to 15 working days later.
• You do not need to pay again or book a new appointment.

Note: Applicants with a HIT are not eligible for Quick Renewal and must complete the verification process in person.

If you need to use your NBI Clearance abroad for employment, immigration, or other legal purposes, it must first be authenticated through an apostille process.

Book an NBI appointment online and select “For Use Abroad” as your purpose when applying.

After receiving your clearance, book a separate appointment with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) for apostille processing.

Bring your original NBI Clearance to your DFA appointment and pay the applicable apostille fee (approximately ₱200).

Validity Note: Many embassies require an NBI Clearance issued within the last 3 to 6 months, so make sure your document is still valid before applying for an apostille.

All NBI branches in the Philippines use the same national online appointment portal. There is no separate booking website for each city or region. During registration, simply choose your preferred branch from the available list.

• NBI Davao: High applicant volume. Book 2 to 3 weeks in advance, especially for Monday and Friday slots.
• NBI Cebu: One of the busiest branches. If the main office is full, consider nearby mall-based satellite branches.
• NBI Iloilo: Serves Western Visayas. Appointment slots are often available early in the week.
• NBI Baguio: Limited daily capacity. Reserve your appointment early during peak months.
• NBI CDO (Cagayan de Oro): Generally offers better availability but becomes busy during recruitment seasons.
• NBI Tuguegarao: Mid-month appointments are usually easier to secure than the first week of busy months.

The same online booking process also applies to branches in Tacloban, Naga, Legazpi, Laoag, Lipa, Bacolod, Sta. Rosa, Cabanatuan, Koronadal, Cotabato City, General Santos, Zamboanga, Butuan, Dagupan, Iligan, Dumaguete, Olongapo, Malolos, Lucena, and Cavite. Simply select your nearest branch when booking your appointment online.

The correct application method depends on whether you are applying for the first time, renewing an existing clearance, or updating your information.

Application Method	Who It Is For	Fee
Quick Renewal (Online)	Applicants with NBI Clearance issued after October 2016, no personal information changes, and no HIT status	₱155 + delivery fee
Standard Renewal	Applicants with a HIT, updated personal details, or older clearances that require verification	₱355
New Application	First-time applicants or those applying for a new NBI Clearance	₱155
First-Time Job Seeker	Qualified first-time job seekers with a valid Barangay Certificate	Free (₱0)

Tip: If you qualify, Quick Renewal is the fastest and most convenient option, allowing you to renew your NBI Clearance online without visiting an NBI branch.

Popular NBI branches in Metro Manila, Cebu City, and Davao City often fill their appointment slots quickly, especially during peak application periods. If you cannot find an available schedule, try these practical solutions:

• Choose a different branch: Check nearby satellite or provincial branches, such as Pasay, Mandaluyong, Marikina, Caloocan, Las Piñas, or other regional offices, which may have better availability than busy mall-based branches.
• Refresh the appointment calendar: Cancelled appointments can become available at any time. Checking the portal regularly, particularly during off-peak hours, may help you secure an open slot.
• Book early in the week: New appointment slots are often released at the beginning of the week. Setting a reminder and checking the portal early can improve your chances of finding a convenient schedule.

Planning ahead and remaining flexible with your preferred branch and appointment date can significantly increase your chances of securing an NBI appointment.

The NBI online appointment system has made applying for or renewing an NBI Clearance much more convenient. By choosing the correct application method and preparing your documents in advance, you can complete the process with fewer delays.If you qualify for Quick Renewal, it is the fastest option. Eligible applicants can renew online, pay the required fee plus delivery charges, and receive their NBI Clearance without visiting a branch. For first-time applicants or those requiring in-person verification, booking your appointment early, selecting a midweek schedule, and bringing the correct valid IDs can help make your visit smoother.No matter where you are in the Philippines, including Davao, Cebu, Iloilo, Baguio, Cagayan de Oro, Tuguegarao, or any other city, all appointments are made through the same national NBI online appointment system. Simply choose your preferred branch during booking and arrive on time with your required documents for a hassle-free experience.

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