[OFW Guide] How to Get an NBI Clearance Even When Working Overseas

OFWs based in other countries will still have a need for Philippine-issued documents, whether for a change in jobs, buying investments, and other similar purposes.

It is for this reason that we should know the processes in getting government-issued documents even if we are based outside the Philippines. In this post, we will teach you how to file for an NBI Clearance online, and how to claim it from the Philippines.

Guide to Getting an NBI Clearance from Abroad

An NBI clearance serves a number of purposes and is valid for a year, and can still be processed even if the person who needs it is outside of the country.

An NBI Clearance can be used as proof of identity, to make changes in legal documents, for local employment, and traveling overseas. Some foreign employers and recruitment agencies for work abroad require this document to make sure that you are in good standing with the law, as well. But if you’re required to get this document even when overseas, here are the things that you need to do:

Step 1: Go to the consular office or Philippine Embassy in your host country. Ask for an NBI Clearance Application Form (Form No. 5).

Step 2: Complete the form, and be sure to affix your signatures properly in the document.

Step 3: Attach your latest 2×2 ID picture with white background.  Write your name and signature at the back of the photo.

Step 4: Prepare a photocopy of your Philippine passport and other valid government IDs.

Step 5: Write an authorization letter for your representative in the Philippines. Be sure to affix your signature in the letter, as well.

Step 6: Send the filled-out application form, photo, photocopies of passport and IDs, and authorization letter to your representative in the Philippines.

Step 7: Visit the NBI Clearance website, and fill out the information needed to create an account.

Step 8: In the online form, select the NBI Clearance Center located in United Nations Ave., Ermita, Manila. Inform your representative to visit this center, as this is the only NBI center that accepts authorized representatives.

Step 9: Once you have submitted your application, make sure to keep a copy of your reference number. The NBI will use this to retrieve your application and data online.

Step 10: Pay the NBI clearance fee. You can either do this by paying via Bayad Centers or through other payment options such as Coins.ph.

Step 11: Wait for the notification from the NBI via e-mail or SMS informing you that your document is already available and ready to be claimed at the NBI Center in Ermita, Manila.

Step 12: Once your authorized representative has received your NBI clearance, ask them to send it to you by post so that you can use it for whatever you need it for.

Note: The processing period for an NBI clearance will usually take about five business days, so factor this in when planning for your application. Of course, you also need to consider the mailing time once it has been forwarded by your representative from the Philippines.

An NBI clearance is only valid for one year so take note of its validity period and if you need to get another copy of this document, be sure to follow the above-listed steps and to consider the time it will take to get your document so that you won’t feel pressured to get it.

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