The NBI Clearance is an official document issued by the National Bureau of Investigation to certify that an individual has no criminal record. Valid for one year from the date of issuance, it is widely used for employment, travel, and legal transactions. Below, we explain the standard validity and scenarios where renewal may be required earlier.
How Long Is NBI Clearance Valid?
The NBI Clearance has a strict 1-year validity period for all purposes, ensuring institutions receive updated background checks. However, practical use often demands more recent documents.
Here’s a breakdown of official versus practical validity:
| Purpose | Official Validity | Practical Validity (May Vary) |
|---|---|---|
| Local Employment | 1 Year | 3–6 Months (employer-dependent) |
| Overseas Work (OFW) | 1 Year | 6–9 Months (due to mailing delays) |
| Visa Applications | 1 Year | 3–6 Months (country-specific) |
| Academic/Professional | 1 Year | Usually accepted for full term |
NBI Clearance Validity for Employment
While the clearance is technically valid for 12 months, many employers—especially government agencies and multinational companies prefer documents issued within the last 3–6 months.
Recommendation: Renew early if actively job-seeking or switching roles.
NBI Clearance Validity for OFWs
Overseas Filipino Workers face unique challenges:
- Processing Delays: Mailing clearances abroad can take 6–8 weeks.
- Strict Employer/Visa Timelines: Some countries require clearances ≤6 months old.
Solution: Renew 4–5 months before expiry to avoid disruptions.
Validity for Travel and Visa Applications
Embassies often impose stricter timelines than the NBI’s 1-year rule:
- Schengen Visa: Clearance must be ≤3 months old.
- U.S./Canada Work Visa: Typically ≤6 months old.
Note: Always verify requirements with the embassy or consulate.
Renewal Process and Validity Reset
Renewing is straightforward if:
- Your last clearance was issued 2014 or later.
- No changes exist to your name, birthdate, or address.
- No “Hit” status appears during verification.
Renewal Options:
- Standard Renewal: Visit an NBI branch (₱130 fee; same-day release if no “Hit”).
- Online Quick Renewal: For clearances issued after October 2016 (₱250 fee; delivery in 10–15 days).
Important: Name changes (e.g., marriage) require a new application, not renewal.
“Hit” Status and Validity
A “Hit” means your name matches a record in the NBI database.
- Processing Time: 5–10 working days (longer if verification is complex).
- Validity: Still 1 year from final issuance date.
Employer Concerns: Some may request additional documentation if your name has pending cases.
Special Scenarios
- Legal Proceedings: Courts may demand clearances ≤3 months old.
- Foreign Applicants: Non-Filipinos in the PH may experience extended processing.
- Lost Clearances: Re-issuance (not renewal) is required, even if unexpired.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I renew an NBI Clearance that expired 2 years ago?
No. Clearances expired for over 1 year require a new application.
2. Do digital NBI Clearances have the same validity?
Yes. E-clearances are valid for 1 year, just like physical copies.
3. Why do some employers reject 6-month-old clearances?
To ensure no criminal records have been added since issuance.
4. How can OFWs renew from abroad?
Through PH embassies or the NBI’s online portal (if eligible).
5. What if my renewal application gets a “Hit”?
The NBI will verify your record. Validity begins after clearance is issued.