Wear something neat and covered: a top with sleeves, long pants or a knee-length skirt, and closed shoes. Leave the sando, shorts and slippers at home. There’s no single nationwide NBI dress code document, but branches commonly refuse those three, and you’re photographed for the clearance itself.
For the photo, choose a plain top with a collar or sleeves, keep your face fully visible, and expect to be asked to take off your eyeglasses. Religious head coverings are generally fine as long as your whole face can be seen.
| Safe to wear | Avoid | |
|---|---|---|
| Tops | Collared shirt, polo, blouse, or a plain T-shirt with sleeves | Sando, tank or tube tops, spaghetti straps, crop tops, deep necklines |
| Bottoms | Long pants, slacks, clean jeans, a skirt or dress to the knee or longer | Shorts, mini skirts, heavily ripped jeans |
| Footwear | Closed shoes, sneakers or flats | Slippers and flip-flops |
| For the photo | Plain colours, hair off your face | Caps, sunglasses, large earrings, busy prints |
We are not the NBI. This is an independent guide. Each branch applies its own rules on the day, so if you’re unsure about an outfit, choose the more conservative option.
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Why your outfit matters
You’re visiting a government office: NBI clearance centers expect visitors to dress the way they would for any government transaction. Branches differ a little, but sleeveless tops, shorts and slippers are the items most often refused, and being sent away to change costs you time and possibly your slot for the day.
Your photo goes on the clearance: The photo taken at the branch is printed on your clearance, which you’ll hand to employers, schools or embassies for the next year. A neat top and a clearly visible face make it a photo you won’t mind showing.
What to wear
For men
- Top: a polo shirt, a collared shirt or a plain T-shirt with sleeves
- Bottom: long pants, slacks or clean jeans
- Shoes: closed shoes or sneakers
For women
- Top: a blouse, a collared shirt or a top that covers your shoulders
- Bottom: long pants, slacks, clean jeans, or a skirt or dress that reaches the knee or longer
- Shoes: closed shoes, flats or low heels
Is it the same at every branch?
Mostly, but not exactly. Some branches are stricter about footwear or skirt length than others. If you follow the strictest version above, you’ll be fine at any branch.
What not to wear
- Sleeveless tops: sando, tank tops, tube tops and spaghetti straps
- Revealing tops: crop tops and plunging necklines
- Short bottoms: shorts and mini skirts
- Slippers and flip-flops, even if the rest of your outfit is fine
- Heavily ripped or distressed jeans
- Clothing with offensive prints or slogans
Getting your photo right
Clothes that photograph well: Plain, solid colours work best. A collar or sleeves frames your face, while very light tops can look washed out, and busy patterns distract. Avoid wearing anything that hides your neckline or chin, such as a high scarf.
Hair and makeup: Keep your hair away from your face so your forehead, eyes and ears are visible. Keep makeup natural; the photo should look like you on any normal day.
Glasses and accessories: Expect to be asked to take off your eyeglasses for the photo, to avoid glare. Remove caps and sunglasses, and be ready to take off large earrings or hair accessories if staff ask.
Religious head coverings: A hijab, veil or other head covering worn for religious reasons is generally accepted, as long as your whole face is visible. Tell the staff when you arrive so they can take the photo properly.
Special situations
A medical reason for your clothing or shoes: If you wear open shoes, a cast, a brace or other clothing because of an injury or condition, explain it to the guard and staff when you arrive. Bringing a medical certificate makes that conversation easier.
Coming straight from work: A work uniform is usually fine if it covers your shoulders and knees. If yours doesn’t, bring a shirt or light jacket to put on.
Pack a backup, just in case: A spare collared shirt or a light cardigan in your bag costs nothing and can save your appointment. If you’re wearing sandals for the trip, bring closed shoes to change into.
If you are sent away to change and can’t get back before the branch closes, a paid booking is still covered by the 15-day grace period at the same branch.
What else to bring
Besides the right clothes, bring your reference number, your proof of payment and two valid IDs, including the one you selected when you applied. Arrive at the start of your AM or PM slot.
FAQs: NBI clearance dress code
There’s no single nationwide dress code document, but branches commonly refuse sleeveless tops, shorts and slippers. Dress neatly and conservatively to be safe.
Yes. Clean jeans without heavy rips are fine with a top that has sleeves and closed shoes.
Avoid slippers and flip-flops. Some branches accept dressy sandals, but closed shoes are the safe choice everywhere.
Expect to. Staff usually ask applicants to remove eyeglasses for the photo to avoid glare.
Generally yes, as long as your whole face is visible. Tell the staff when you arrive.
You may be asked to change before you’re processed. Bring a backup outfit if you’re unsure.
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