Everything you need to know about getting an NBI clearance from Canada. Whether you’re renewing an existing clearance or applying for the first time, this guide covers the complete process — requirements, costs, processing times, and how to handle a HIT.
Table of Contents
- What is an NBI Clearance?
- Who Needs an NBI Clearance in Canada?
- Types of NBI Clearance
- NBI Clearance Requirements
- How to Renew NBI Clearance from Canada
- How to Apply for NBI Clearance for the First Time
- What is an NBI HIT?
- NBI Clearance Processing Time
- NBI Clearance Cost
- Frequently Asked Questions
What is an NBI Clearance?
The NBI (National Bureau of Investigation) clearance is the Philippine equivalent of a police clearance certificate. It is issued by the NBI in Manila and certifies whether or not you have a criminal record in the Philippines.
An NBI clearance is required for a wide range of purposes including immigration applications, employment background checks, travel documentation, and legal transactions. It is one of the most commonly requested Philippine documents for Filipinos living in Canada.
An NBI clearance is valid for 1 year from the date of issue. After expiration, you will need to apply for a new clearance.
Who Needs an NBI Clearance in Canada?
Immigration
IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) requires an NBI clearance as a police certificate if you lived in the Philippines for 6 or more months since the age of 18. This applies to permanent residence applications, citizenship applications, and some work and study permit applications.
Employment
Canadian employers in healthcare, education, government, and security sectors may require a Philippine police clearance as part of their background check process. An NBI clearance satisfies this requirement.
Legal & Travel
You may need an NBI clearance for visa applications to other countries, Philippine property transactions, business permit applications, or any legal matter requiring proof of a clean record in the Philippines.
Not sure if you need one? Check our FAQ page or contact us for a quick assessment.
Types of NBI Clearance
NBI Renewal
If you have had an NBI clearance issued from 2014 onward, you are eligible for a renewal. The renewal process is simpler — no new fingerprints are needed because your biometrics are already on file with NBI. You can renew online through the NBI website, and the new clearance can be mailed to your Canadian address. Typical processing time is 2 to 3 weeks.
First-Time Application (NBI Form 5)
If you have never had an NBI clearance, or if your name or marital status has changed since your last clearance, you will need to apply as a first-time applicant. This requires fingerprinting using NBI Form Number 5, which is the official application form submitted to NBI Manila. Processing takes 4 to 6 weeks because the fingerprints need to be processed and verified.
Multi-Purpose NBI Clearance
The multi-purpose NBI clearance is the standard type that most Canadians need. It can be used for immigration, employment, and any other general purpose. Unless you need a clearance for a specific government agency in the Philippines, the multi-purpose clearance is what you should apply for.
NBI Clearance Requirements
For Renewal
- Previous NBI clearance issued in 2014 or later
- Valid government-issued ID (passport or driver’s licence)
- Passport-size photo (white background)
For First-Time Application
- Valid Philippine passport or PSA birth certificate
- 2 passport-size photos (white background)
- Fingerprints on ink (using NBI Form 5)
- Completed NBI application form
For Both Renewal and First-Time
- Payment of processing fee
- Canadian address (for optional delivery service)
How to Renew NBI Clearance from Canada
If your previous NBI clearance was issued in 2014 or later, you can renew it online. Here is the step-by-step process:
Step 1: Create or Log In to Your NBI Account
Go to the NBI website at clearance.nbi.gov.ph and create an account or log in if you already have one. You will need a working email address to receive your confirmation and updates.
Step 2: Select “Renewal” and Fill In Your Details
Choose the renewal option and enter your personal details exactly as they appear on your previous NBI clearance. Any discrepancy in your name may trigger a HIT or delay processing.
Step 3: Pay the NBI Fee Online
Pay the NBI processing fee of \u20b1155 using the available online payment methods. Keep your payment confirmation for your records.
Step 4: Wait for Processing
Processing typically takes 1 to 2 weeks for results with no HIT. If your name generates a HIT (name match in the NBI database), processing will take longer.
Step 5: Download or Print Your Clearance
Once your clearance is ready, you can download and print it from the NBI website. If you need a physical copy with a wet signature, additional arrangements will be needed.
Skip the hassle? Apply through NBI Renewal Canada and we handle everything — from application to processing. Pickup at our Toronto office or Canada-wide delivery for an additional fee. No need to navigate the NBI website yourself.
How to Apply for NBI Clearance for the First Time
If you have never had an NBI clearance, or if your name or marital status has changed, you will need to apply as a first-time applicant. Since you are in Canada, you cannot walk into an NBI office. Here are your options:
Option 1: Through NBI Renewal Canada (Recommended)
We coordinate the entire process for you. This includes coordinating your NBI Form 5, submitting it to NBI Manila, following up on processing, and making the completed clearance available for pickup at our Toronto office or delivering it to your Canadian address for an additional fee. Fingerprinting is available through accredited third-party providers near our Toronto office or via mail-in fingerprint kit for clients outside the GTA (separate cost).
Option 2: Through the Philippine Consulate
You can visit the Philippine Consulate General (PCG) in Toronto, Vancouver, or Calgary for fingerprinting. Be aware that consulate appointments often have long wait times and limited operating hours. You will still need to arrange submission to NBI Manila separately.
Option 3: Through an Authorized Representative in the Philippines
You can authorize someone in the Philippines to process your NBI clearance on your behalf. This requires a Special Power of Attorney (SPA) that has been consularized. This option works but involves additional steps and costs.
The easiest option? Apply through us — we handle everything from start to finish so you don’t have to travel. No SPA needed.
What is an NBI HIT?
When you apply for or renew an NBI clearance, your name is checked against the NBI database. A “HIT” means your name matched a record in the system. This does not necessarily mean you have a criminal record — most HITs are caused by common Filipino names.
Namesake HIT
This is the most common type. It means someone else with the same name as yours has a record in the NBI database. A namesake HIT is resolved by submitting an Affidavit of Denial, which confirms you are not the person with the record. This adds about 1 to 2 weeks to processing time.
Derogatory Record
A derogatory record means there is an actual case on file under your name. This may require legal documents such as court orders, certificates of disposition, or other clearance documents to resolve. The timeline depends on the nature of the case.
Our team, backed by JCA Law Office, handles HIT resolution including preparation of affidavits, notarization, and consulate authentication. Contact us if you received a HIT and need assistance.
NBI Clearance Processing Time
Processing times depend on the type of application and whether your name generates a HIT in the NBI system.
| Service | Processing Time |
|---|---|
| NBI Renewal (no HIT) | 2 to 3 weeks |
| First-Time Application | 4 to 6 weeks |
| HIT Resolution (Namesake) | Additional 1 to 2 weeks |
| HIT Resolution (Derogatory) | Varies by case |
Processing times are estimates and do not include delivery time. Canada-wide delivery is available for an additional fee.
NBI Clearance Cost
Our pricing is straightforward with all fees included — you do not need to make a separate payment to NBI.
- NBI Clearance Renewal: $99 + HST
- First-Time NBI Clearance: $149 + HST
All fees cover the NBI processing fee, handling, and pickup at our Toronto office. Canada-wide delivery is available for an additional fee. For full pricing details and additional services, visit our pricing page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my NBI clearance online from Canada?
Yes, if your previous NBI clearance was issued in 2014 or later, you can renew it online through the NBI website or through our service. Your fingerprints are already on file, so no new biometrics are needed.
Do I need to visit the Philippine Consulate?
No. Whether you are renewing or applying for the first time, we handle the entire process remotely. For first-time applicants, fingerprinting is available through accredited third-party providers near our Toronto office or via mail-in fingerprint kit (separate cost).
How long is an NBI clearance valid?
An NBI clearance is valid for 1 year from the date of issue. For IRCC immigration applications, the clearance must be valid at the time of submission and remain valid throughout processing.
What if I get a HIT?
If your application generates a HIT, our team handles the resolution. For namesake HITs (the most common type), we prepare and submit the required Affidavit of Denial. For derogatory records, our legal team at JCA Law Office can assist with obtaining the necessary court documents.
Can you deliver outside Toronto?
Yes, we offer Canada-wide delivery for an additional fee. Whether you are in Vancouver, Calgary, Montreal, or anywhere else in Canada, we can mail the completed clearance to your address. Pickup at our Toronto office is included in the base price.
What is NBI Form Number 5?
NBI Form Number 5 is the official application form used for first-time NBI clearance applicants, obtained from the Philippine Consulate or Embassy. It includes sections for your personal information and space for ink fingerprints. The completed form is submitted to NBI Manila for processing. If you apply through us, we coordinate obtaining this form for you.
Have more questions? See all 31 answers on our FAQ page.
Ready to Get Your NBI Clearance?
Whether you need a renewal or a first-time application, we make the process simple. Apply online in 5 minutes and let us handle the rest — from submission to NBI Manila to completion. Pickup at our Toronto office or delivery anywhere in Canada.
Questions? Email info@nbirenewal.ca or visit our FAQ page for quick answers.