Filipinos who want to work abroad needs to submit documents on a licensed recruitment agency. These documents include curriculum vitae, diplomas, transcript of records, police clearance, certificate of trainings and NBI clearance. All of which should be authenticated.

Among these documents, the NBI clearance expires yearly and so an overseas Filipino worker or OFW should renew it. But it would be a hassle if you are working abroad. So, how would you get one since it has to be obtain personally for security purposes? 

OFWs can obtain their NBI clearance by following the steps below:

1. The OFW should secure NBI Clearance Application Form (NBI Form No. 5) from the Philippine Embassy/Consulate in the country where you currently are.

2. Fill out the form and go to the Embassy/Consulate or nearest police station for fingerprinting, which should be rolled impressions. The one who took the fingerprint impression must sign on the form.

3. OFWs must attach a 2x2 picture in white background, taken within three (3) months prior to application, photocopy of passport and other valid identification card/s.

4. Other than the instructions above, OFWs are also required to register online at www.nbi-clearance.com. An applicant is required to sign-up and o sign-in to apply for clearance where a reference number will appear on the screen. The OFW must copy this reference number which will serve as the NBI's code in the retrieval of the applicant's data and status of application. 

5. Enclose money order or bank draft in the amount of two hundred pesos (P200.00), Philippine currency, negotiable in the Philippines, payable to the NBI Director. Cash is also accepted equivalent to two hundred pesos (P200.00). Clearance fee is one hundred fifteen pesos (P115.00) and the remaining eighty-five pesos (P85.00) will be used to send clearance through the Philippine Post. 

6. OFWs should send completed application form to:     

                                                        Ms. Sandra P. Sobida

                                                        Mailed Clearance Section

                                                        3rd Floor, NBI Clearance Bldg.,

                                                        UN Avenue, Ermita, Manila, Philippines

    Ms. Sobida can also be reached at (+632) 523 8231 local 5465.

7. Processing time for applications will take a maximum of five (5) days upon receipt of documents.

8. If the OFW would let a relative to submit the documents, a Letter of Authorization should be provided.