You’ve successfully secured your NBI Clearance certificate, but how long is it actually good for? Understanding its validity period is crucial to ensure your document is accepted for your job application, visa, or any other important requirement.
This guide provides a clear answer and offers practical tips on when you should plan your renewal.
The Official Validity Period
The direct answer is simple: a standard NBI Clearance is valid for one (1) year from the date it was issued.
This means if your clearance was printed and issued on July 18, 2025, it will be valid until July 17, 2026. The validity period is the same whether it’s a new application or a renewal.
The “Six-Month Validity” Rule: An Important Exception
This is a critical point that confuses many applicants.
While your NBI Clearance is officially valid for one year, many employers, embassies, and government agencies will only accept a clearance that has been issued within the last six (6) months.
Why? These institutions require the most recent possible confirmation of your criminal record status. Therefore, even if your NBI clearance has not yet expired, you may need to apply for a new one if the company or embassy you are submitting it to has a strict “six-month validity” policy.
Our advice: Always check the specific requirements of the office or company you are submitting your clearance to.
When Should You Renew Your NBI Clearance?
To avoid any last-minute rush, it’s best to plan your renewal in advance.
- For General Local Use: We recommend starting the renewal process about one month before your current clearance expires. This gives you enough time to book an appointment and accounts for any potential delays, such as getting a “Hit.”
- For Overseas/OFW Requirements: If you are an OFW, you should start the process 3 to 4 months before you need the document. The international application process, including authentication and shipping, can take a long time. For more details, see our Guide to Getting an NBI Clearance Abroad.
How to Check Your NBI Clearance’s Expiration Date
It’s easy to find your clearance’s validity. Look at your physical NBI Clearance certificate. The “Date Issued” (or Petsa ng Pagkaloob) is clearly printed on the document. Your clearance will expire exactly one year after that date.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
No. The one-year validity period begins on the day the clearance is finally printed and issued to you, regardless of any delays caused by a “Hit.”
No. An expired NBI Clearance will be rejected for any official transaction. However, you should keep your expired clearance as it contains your NBI ID Number, which is very useful for future renewals.
You must apply for a new NBI Clearance. You can do this by following the standard renewal process online.
Conclusion
In summary, your NBI Clearance is your clean bill of health for one full year. However, always be mindful of the common “six-month validity” rule imposed by many institutions. Plan your renewal ahead of time to ensure you always have a current and acceptable NBI Clearance whenever you need it.
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