If you are a Filipino applying for Canadian permanent residence (PR), you will almost certainly need an NBI clearance as part of your application. Here is everything you need to know about the NBI clearance requirement for IRCC applications.
Why IRCC Requires NBI Clearance
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) requires police certificates from every country where you have lived for six months or more since turning 18. For Filipino applicants, this means obtaining an NBI clearance from the Philippine National Bureau of Investigation.
This requirement applies to most PR pathways, including:
- Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker, Canadian Experience Class, Federal Skilled Trades)
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) — Ontario, BC, Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, etc.
- Spousal/Family Sponsorship
- Atlantic Immigration Program
- Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot
- Caregiver pathways
When to Get Your NBI Clearance
Timing matters. IRCC requires that your police certificate be issued no more than six months before the date you submit your PR application. If your NBI clearance is older than six months at the time of submission, IRCC will reject it and ask for a new one — which can delay your application significantly.
Our recommendation: Start your NBI clearance application 6-8 weeks before you plan to submit your PR application. This gives enough time for processing (2-6 weeks) plus a buffer for any delays or HITs.
NBI Clearance vs Police Clearance — Which One Does IRCC Need?
IRCC specifically requires the NBI clearance (issued by the National Bureau of Investigation) for Filipino applicants — not a police clearance from your local Philippine police station. These are two different documents. For a full comparison, see our guide: NBI Clearance vs Police Clearance.
How to Get NBI Clearance While in Canada
If you are already in Canada (as a temporary resident, worker, student, or refugee claimant), you can get your NBI clearance without returning to the Philippines. Our complete guide covers the full process, but here is the summary:
- Apply through NBI Renewal Canada — submit your application online
- Get ink and roll fingerprints on NBI Form No. 5 (for first-time applicants)
- We handle submission to NBI Manila and follow up on processing
- Receive your NBI clearance at your Canadian address (or pick up at our Toronto office)
Typical processing time: 2-3 weeks for renewals, 4-6 weeks for first-time applications. See processing times for more detail.
What If I Get an NBI HIT?
An NBI HIT does not mean your PR application is doomed. Most HITs are caused by common Filipino names matching records in the NBI database — not actual criminal records. If you get a HIT, we handle the resolution process for you. Learn more: What is an NBI HIT?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use an old NBI clearance for my PR application?
Only if it was issued within the last 6 months. IRCC requires police certificates dated no more than 6 months before your application submission date.
Do I need NBI clearance if I left the Philippines as a child?
If you lived in the Philippines for 6+ months after turning 18, yes. If you left before age 18 and never returned for an extended period, you may not need it — but check with your immigration lawyer or IRCC directly.
My Express Entry ITA deadline is approaching. Can you expedite?
Contact us immediately. We understand the time pressure of Express Entry invitations and will do everything possible to expedite your application. NBI renewals (biometrics already on file) are fastest at 2-3 weeks.
Applying for Canadian PR? Start your NBI clearance application now — we respond within 1 business day. See our pricing for transparent fees with no hidden charges.