NBI Clearance Application for First Time Jobseekers

ByYolanda Paul

NBI First Time Jobseeker Application

If you’re applying for your first job in the Philippines, one of the most common requirements you’ll encounter is an NBI Clearance. This document, issued by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), certifies that you don’t have a pending criminal case on record. Fortunately, under Republic Act No. 11261 (First Time Jobseekers Assistance Act of 2019), you can get your NBI Clearance free of charge, as long as you qualify as a first-time jobseeker.

Who Qualifies as a First-Time Jobseeker?

You’ll be considered a first-time jobseeker if:

  • You are a Filipino citizen, aged 18 and above.

  • You are seeking employment for the first time, whether in government or private sector.

  • You have not been employed locally or abroad before.

You’ll need to sign a First Time Jobseeker Affidavit to confirm that you’ve never worked or applied for an NBI clearance previously.

Note: If you’ve already been employed or requested an NBI Clearance in the past, you’ll need to pay the regular fee (around ₱130 plus ₱25 e-payment service fee).

Requirements for First-Time Jobseekers

When you apply, you’ll need to present:

  1. Valid government-issued ID (such as PhilSys/PhilID, passport, postal ID, driver’s license, or UMID).

  2. Barangay Certification stating that you are a first-time jobseeker under RA 11261. This must be:

    • Dated and signed by your barangay chairman.

    • Issued within the last 12 months.

    • Free of charge (by law).

Optional but helpful: A photocopy of your birth certificate (PSA-issued).

NBI Clearance Application Guide for First Time Applicants

Here’s how you can apply for an NBI Clearance as a first-time jobseeker:

Step 1: Secure a Barangay Certification

Visit your barangay hall and request a First Time Jobseeker Certificate. Bring your valid ID. They’ll usually release it on the same day.

Step 2: Register Online with the NBI Clearance Website

  1. Go to clearance.nbi.gov.ph.

  2. Create an account (if it’s your first time).

  3. Choose the option indicating you are applying as a First Time Jobseeker.

Step 3: Schedule an Appointment

  • Pick your preferred NBI branch and available date/time.

  • Payment is waived, but you still need to complete the appointment booking.

Step 4: Go to the NBI Office on Your Appointment Date

Bring the following:

  • Barangay Certification

  • Valid ID

  • Printed appointment reference (optional, but recommended)

Your photo and biometrics will be taken on-site.

Step 5: Claim Your NBI Clearance

  • If your name has no “hit” (no records to verify), you can claim your clearance within a few hours.

  • If you get a “hit” (possible name similarity with someone under investigation), clearance may take 7–10 working days for further verification.

Processing Time

  • With no hit: Same day release, usually within 2–4 hours.

  • With hit: 7–10 working days.

  • Validity: 1 year from the date of issuance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

➔ How much is the NBI Clearance for first-time jobseekers?
It’s free of charge under RA 11261 (First Time Jobseekers Assistance Act). You only need to bring the required Barangay Certificate. However, if you’ve been employed before or already got an NBI clearance previously, you’ll have to pay the standard fee (₱130 + ₱25 e-payment service fee).
➔ Do I still need to book online if I’m a first-time jobseeker?
Yes. Even though payment is waived, you must still register online at clearance.nbi.gov.ph and set an appointment before going to the NBI office. Walk-ins without an appointment are generally not accepted.
➔ Who is considered a first-time jobseeker under RA 11261?
A first-time jobseeker is any Filipino citizen who is seeking employment for the first time, has never worked (locally or abroad), and has never applied for an NBI clearance before. You must secure a Barangay Certification to prove this status.
➔ What happens if I declare I’m a first-time jobseeker but I’ve worked before?
If NBI records show you’ve applied before or if your affidavit is false, you won’t be granted the free clearance. You’ll need to pay the standard fee, and in some cases, you may face penalties for misrepresentation.

Applying for your NBI Clearance as a first-time jobseeker doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Thanks to RA 11261, you’ll save money and have one less barrier to starting your career. By preparing your Barangay Certification and valid ID in advance, and booking your appointment online, you’ll make the process faster and easier.

Remember, this is a one-time privilege, so take advantage of it while you can. Once you secure your clearance, you’ll be ready to move forward with your job applications and take that exciting step into the workforce.

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