Need NBI Clearance? Visit NBI Renewal Canada for fast, reliable NBI clearance processing from anywhere in Canada.
Last Updated: February 2026 | Based on the latest NBI, IRCC, and Philippine Consulate requirements
Whether you need an NBI clearance for Canadian immigration, overseas employment, or legal transactions in the Philippines, getting it from Canada can feel overwhelming. The process involves multiple agencies across two countries, different methods depending on your situation, and paperwork that must be done exactly right.
This is the most comprehensive NBI clearance guide for Filipinos in Canada. We cover every method of obtaining your NBI clearance, city-by-city consulate instructions for Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary, step-by-step processes for each route, and solutions to every common problem you might encounter.
At JCA Law Office Professional Corporation, we have helped hundreds of Filipino-Canadians obtain their NBI clearance for immigration applications, employment, and other legal purposes. This guide reflects our real-world experience navigating this process every day.
Table of Contents
- What Is NBI Clearance and Why Do You Need It?
- Who Needs NBI Clearance from Canada?
- 3 Methods to Get NBI Clearance from Canada
- Method 1: Through the Philippine Consulate (Recommended)
- Method 2: NBI Mailed Clearance (Direct to Manila)
- Method 3: Through an Authorized Representative in the Philippines
- City-by-City Guide: Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary & More
- Required Documents Checklist
- Fees and Costs Breakdown (2026)
- Processing Times
- NBI Clearance for Canadian Immigration (IRCC Requirements)
- NBI Clearance Apostille and Authentication
- NBI Clearance Renewal from Canada
- Common Issues and How to Resolve Them
- Frequently Asked Questions (20 FAQs)
- Apply Online (NBI Clearance Form)
- How JCA Law Office Can Help
What Is NBI Clearance and Why Do You Need It?
The NBI clearance (also called NBI clearance certificate) is an official document issued by the National Bureau of Investigation of the Philippines. It certifies whether an individual has any criminal record or pending criminal case in the Philippines.
Think of it as the Philippine equivalent of a Canadian police clearance certificate, or what IRCC officially calls a “police certificate.” The NBI clearance contains your personal information, fingerprint record, and a finding of either “NO DEROGATORY RECORD” (clean) or details of any criminal history on file.
Key Facts About NBI Clearance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Issuing Authority | National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), Philippines |
| Validity | 1 year from date of issue |
| IRCC Validity | Must be issued within 6 months of submitting your immigration application |
| Base Fee (Philippines) | PHP 155 (approximately CAD $4) |
| Consulate Fee (Canada) | CAD $38.75 for consularization of NBI Form No. 5 |
| Processing Time | 3-8 weeks total (from Canada, including transit) |
Who Needs NBI Clearance from Canada?
If you are a Filipino living in Canada, you may need an NBI clearance for any of the following purposes:
Immigration to Canada (IRCC Requirement)
- Permanent Residency applications (Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs, Family Class)
- Spousal Sponsorship — both sponsor and sponsored person may need it
- Work Permit applications where security clearance is required
- Study Permit applications in certain cases
- Canadian Citizenship applications
Employment and Professional Purposes
- Employment in the Philippines or with Philippine companies
- Overseas employment requiring Philippine police clearance
- Professional license applications or renewals in the Philippines
- Board exam applications
Legal and Personal Purposes
- Philippine passport application or renewal
- Dual citizenship applications (RA 9225)
- Property transactions in the Philippines
- Court proceedings and legal transactions
- Visa applications to other countries
- Firearm license applications in the Philippines
3 Methods to Get NBI Clearance from Canada
There are three main ways to obtain your NBI clearance while living in Canada. Each has different requirements, costs, and timelines:
| Method | Best For | Timeline | Total Cost (Est.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Philippine Consulate | Most applicants in Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary | 4-8 weeks | CAD $50-$80 |
| 2. NBI Mailed Clearance | Applicants far from a Consulate | 6-12 weeks | CAD $60-$100 |
| 3. Authorized Representative | Those with trusted contacts in the Philippines who have existing NBI clearance (renewal only) | 2-4 weeks | CAD $20-$40 |
Method 1: Through the Philippine Consulate (Recommended)
This is the most reliable method for Filipinos in Canada. The Philippine Consulate does not issue the NBI clearance itself — it consularizes (notarizes) your NBI Form No. 5, which you then send to NBI Manila for processing.
Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Book an Appointment at Your Nearest Consulate
Contact the Philippine Consulate General nearest to you (Toronto, Vancouver, or Calgary) to schedule an appointment for NBI clearance consularization. You can also request the NBI Form No. 5 by mail if you cannot visit in person.
- Toronto: Book online at philcongen-toronto.com
- Vancouver: Book online at appointment.vancouverpcg.org
- Calgary: Book online at calgarypcg.ca
Step 2: Complete NBI Form No. 5
Fill out the NBI Clearance Application Form (Form No. 5) completely and legibly. Provide your full legal name as it appears on your Philippine passport, your date and place of birth, your current address in Canada, and your purpose for the clearance.
Step 3: Get Your Fingerprints Taken
You have two options for fingerprinting:
- Option A: At the Philippine Consulate during your appointment (recommended)
- Option B: At any RCMP-accredited fingerprinting service near you. The fingerprints must be rolled impressions on the NBI Form No. 5. Ask the fingerprinting officer for their business card as proof.
Step 4: Submit Documents and Pay Consulate Fee
Submit your completed NBI Form No. 5 with fingerprints, along with the required documents (see documents checklist below). Pay the consularization fee of CAD $38.75.
- Standard processing: 2 business days (excluding mailing time)
- Expedited processing: Same day (by 3:00 PM) for an additional CAD $15.50
Step 5: Send Consularized Form to NBI Manila
Once you receive your consularized NBI Form No. 5 back from the Consulate, you are responsible for sending it to NBI Manila. Mail it to:
Identification and Records Division — Mailed Clearance Section
National Bureau of Investigation
Taft Avenue, Ermita 1000
Manila, Philippines
Include the NBI processing fee of PHP 200 (covers the PHP 130 clearance fee + PHP 70 mailing cost) in Philippine currency or its US dollar equivalent.
Step 6: Receive Your NBI Clearance
NBI Manila will process your application and mail the clearance certificate directly to your Canadian address, or to a designated address in the Philippines. Processing at NBI takes a maximum of 3 business days, but allow additional time for international mail transit (typically 2-4 weeks).
Method 2: NBI Mailed Clearance (Direct to Manila)
If you cannot easily visit a Philippine Consulate, you can apply directly to the NBI Mailed Clearance Section. This method skips the Consulate step but requires you to arrange fingerprinting independently.
Step-by-Step Process
- Obtain NBI Form No. 5 — Request it by mail from any Philippine Consulate, or download from authorized sources. The form must bear the seal of the Philippine Consulate or Embassy.
- Complete the form — Fill in all personal information truthfully and legibly in print.
- Get fingerprints taken — Visit an RCMP station or RCMP-accredited fingerprinting service. Ensure rolled impressions are placed on the correct spaces of the NBI Form.
- Prepare your package — Include the completed NBI Form No. 5 with fingerprints, two 2×2 colored ID photos (white background, taken within the last 3 months), a photocopy of your valid passport (data page), and PHP 200 (or USD equivalent) for the processing and mailing fee.
- Mail to NBI Manila — Send via registered or tracked international mail to the NBI Mailed Clearance Section address above.
- Wait for delivery — NBI will process and mail your clearance certificate to the return address you provide.
Method 3: Through an Authorized Representative in the Philippines
If you already have an NBI clearance that was issued from 2014 onwards, you can authorize a trusted family member or friend in the Philippines to renew it on your behalf. This is often the fastest method.
Requirements
- Your previous NBI clearance (original or clear copy) issued from 2014 onwards
- A signed Special Power of Attorney (SPA) authorizing your representative
- A photocopy of your valid government-issued ID
- A photocopy of the representative’s valid government-issued ID
- NBI processing fee (PHP 155 for standard, additional for rush processing)
Process
- Prepare an SPA authorizing your representative. JCA Law Office can help you draft a proper SPA.
- Send the SPA, your old NBI clearance, and ID copies to your representative in the Philippines.
- Your representative applies at any NBI branch or satellite office in the Philippines.
- If no “hit” (name match), the clearance can be issued the same day.
- Your representative mails the original clearance to you in Canada.
City-by-City Guide: Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary & More
Canada has three Philippine Consulates General that serve different regions. Here is detailed information for each, plus guidance for Filipinos in cities without a consulate.
Toronto (Philippine Consulate General)
| Address | 160 Eglinton Avenue East, 7th Floor, Toronto, Ontario M4P 3B5 |
| Phone | (416) 922-7181 |
| consularmatters@philcongen-toronto.com | |
| Website | philcongen-toronto.com |
| NBI Fee | CAD $38.75 (cash, money order, bank draft, credit/debit card, Apple Pay, Google Pay) |
| Expedite Fee | CAD $15.50 additional (same-day release by 3:00 PM) |
| Hours | Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (except Philippine and Canadian holidays) |
| Jurisdiction | Ontario, Quebec, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Nunavut, and the Atlantic Provinces (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, PEI, Newfoundland & Labrador) |
Toronto-Specific Tips:
- The Consulate is located at Yonge & Eglinton, easily accessible by TTC (Eglinton subway station).
- Personal cheques are not accepted. Bring cash or a money order/bank draft payable to “Philippine Consulate General in Toronto.”
- Electronic payments (credit/debit card, Apple Pay, Google Pay) are now accepted.
- If you cannot visit in person, you can mail your request with a self-addressed stamped return envelope.
- JCA Law Office is located nearby at 2323 Yonge Street, Suite 204 — just a few minutes from the Consulate. Apply online and we’ll handle the entire process for you.
Vancouver (Philippine Consulate General)
| Address | 999 Canada Place, Suite 660, Vancouver, BC V6C 3E1 |
| Phone | (604) 685-7645 |
| Website | vancouverpcg.org |
| Appointments | appointment.vancouverpcg.org |
| NBI Fee | CAD $38.75 (money order or bank draft payable to “Consulate General of the Philippines”) |
| Expedite Fee | CAD $15.50 additional (same-day release by 3:00 PM) |
| Hours | Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (except Philippine and Canadian holidays) |
| Jurisdiction | British Columbia, Yukon |
Vancouver-Specific Tips:
- The Consulate is at Canada Place, right at the Waterfront. Take the SkyTrain to Waterfront Station.
- For mail applications, include a self-addressed Xpresspost envelope for return delivery (required for standard 2-day processing).
- Payment by money order or bank draft only — no cash, no personal cheques for mail-in applications.
- The Consulate also serves Filipinos in the Yukon Territory.
Calgary (Philippine Consulate General)
| Address | Suite 820, 5940 Macleod Trail SW, Calgary, Alberta T2H 2G4 |
| Phone | (403) 301-0488 |
| Website | calgarypcg.ca |
| NBI Fee | CAD $38.75 (debit card, credit card, or cash) |
| Expedite Fee | CAD $15.50 additional (same-day release by 3:00 PM) |
| Hours | Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (except Philippine and Canadian holidays) |
| Jurisdiction | Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Northwest Territories |
Calgary-Specific Tips:
- Calgary accepts debit card, credit card, and cash — the most flexible payment options of all three consulates.
- You can request the NBI Form No. 5 in person or by mail.
- For mail-in requests, include a self-addressed stamped return envelope.
- The Calgary Consulate also serves Filipinos in Saskatchewan, Manitoba (for some services), and the Northwest Territories.
Filipinos in Winnipeg, Edmonton, Montreal, Ottawa & Other Cities
If you live in a city without a Philippine Consulate, here is how to proceed:
| Your City | Nearest Consulate | Best Method |
|---|---|---|
| Winnipeg, MB | Toronto or Calgary | Mail-in to Consulate or use authorized representative |
| Edmonton, AB | Calgary | Mail-in to Calgary Consulate or visit in person (3-hour drive) |
| Montreal, QC | Toronto | Mail-in to Toronto Consulate |
| Ottawa, ON | Toronto (or Philippine Embassy) | Mail-in to Toronto Consulate or Philippine Embassy in Ottawa |
| Halifax, NS | Toronto | Mail-in to Toronto Consulate |
| Saskatoon, SK | Calgary | Mail-in to Calgary Consulate |
| Victoria, BC | Vancouver | Mail-in to Vancouver Consulate or ferry to Vancouver |
Ottawa Note: The Philippine Embassy in Ottawa also offers consular services including NBI form notarization. Contact them at (613) 233-1121 for availability.
Required Documents Checklist
For Consulate Visit (In Person)
- Completed NBI Clearance Application Form (Form No. 5)
- Original and photocopy of your valid Philippine passport (data page)
- Two (2) recent 2×2 colored photographs with white background (taken within the last 3 months)
- Payment of CAD $38.75 (varies by consulate — see payment methods above)
- For RCMP fingerprinting: Business card of the RCMP officer who took your fingerprints, plus RCMP seal stamped on one of your photos
For Mail-In Application (to Consulate)
- All of the above documents
- A letter requesting NBI Form No. 5 consularization
- Self-addressed stamped return envelope (regular postage) or Xpresspost envelope (Vancouver requires Xpresspost)
- Payment via money order or bank draft (no personal cheques, no cash by mail)
- Complete contact information (phone, email, address)
For NBI Mailed Clearance (Direct to NBI Manila)
- Consularized NBI Form No. 5 with fingerprints and Consulate seal
- Two (2) 2×2 colored ID photos (white background)
- Photocopy of valid passport
- Photocopy of other valid government-issued IDs
- PHP 200 (or USD equivalent) enclosed for processing and mailing
- Self-addressed return envelope (if you want it mailed to your Canadian address)
For Authorized Representative (Renewal Only)
- Original or clear photocopy of your previously issued NBI clearance (2014 onwards)
- Signed Special Power of Attorney (SPA)
- Photocopy of your valid government-issued ID
- Photocopy of the representative’s valid ID
- Authorization letter (if SPA is not notarized)
Fees and Costs Breakdown (2026)
Here is a complete breakdown of all costs you may encounter when obtaining NBI clearance from Canada:
| Fee Item | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Consulate Notarization Fee | CAD $38.75 | Same at all three Canadian consulates |
| Expedite Fee (Same-Day) | CAD $15.50 | Optional; release by 3:00 PM same day |
| NBI Processing Fee | PHP 130 (~CAD $3.50) | Paid to NBI Manila |
| NBI Mailing Fee | PHP 70 (~CAD $1.90) | For NBI to mail clearance to you |
| RCMP Fingerprinting | CAD $25-$75 | Varies by provider; free at some RCMP detachments |
| International Courier (to NBI) | CAD $30-$80 | Canada Post tracked, FedEx, or DHL |
| Photos (2×2) | CAD $10-$20 | At any photo studio or Shoppers Drug Mart |
| DFA Apostille (if needed) | PHP 100-200 (~CAD $3-$5) | Required for certain international uses |
Total Estimated Cost: CAD $50 to $120 depending on your method, location, and whether you need expedited processing or apostille services.
Processing Times
| Stage | Standard | Expedited |
|---|---|---|
| Consulate Notarization | 2 business days | Same day (by 3 PM) |
| International Mail (Canada to Philippines) | 1-3 weeks | 3-5 days (courier) |
| NBI Processing (no hit) | 1-3 business days | Same day |
| NBI Processing (with hit) | 5-15 business days | Not available |
| International Mail (Philippines to Canada) | 2-4 weeks | 3-5 days (courier) |
| Total (No Hit) | 4-8 weeks | 2-3 weeks |
| Total (With Hit) | 6-12 weeks | 4-6 weeks |
NBI Clearance for Canadian Immigration (IRCC Requirements)
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has specific requirements for NBI clearance as a police certificate. Here is what you need to know:
When IRCC Requires NBI Clearance
You must provide an NBI clearance if you have lived in the Philippines for 6 consecutive months or longer since the age of 18. This applies to:
- Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker, Canadian Experience Class, Federal Skilled Trades)
- Provincial Nominee Programs (OINP, BC PNP, AAIP, MPNP, SINP, etc.)
- Family Class (Spousal Sponsorship, Parent & Grandparent Sponsorship)
- Citizenship applications
- Some work permit and study permit applications
IRCC-Specific Requirements
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Document Name | “NBI Multi-purpose Clearance Certificate” |
| Validity for Submission | Must be issued no more than 6 months before your application date (for country of current residence) or after you last left the Philippines (for former residents) |
| Format | Must include thumbprint and dry seal |
| Submission Format | Scanned copy of the original certificate in color. Certified true copies are NOT accepted. |
| If Record Found | If clearance shows “RECORD AS STATED” or any derogatory record, you must submit: written explanation from NBI, all court documents, and your personal explanation |
NBI Clearance for Specific Immigration Programs
Spousal Sponsorship
Both the sponsor (Canadian citizen/PR) and the sponsored person (spouse/partner) may need NBI clearance if they lived in the Philippines for 6+ months after age 18. For sponsored persons still in the Philippines, they can apply at any NBI branch directly. Learn more: Spousal Sponsorship Canada Guide.
Express Entry & PNP Applications
After receiving your Invitation to Apply (ITA), you have 60 days to submit your complete application including police certificates. Since NBI clearance from Canada takes 4-8 weeks, you should begin the process before receiving your ITA if you expect one soon.
Caregiver Programs
Filipino caregivers applying through the Home Care Worker Immigration Pilots need NBI clearance as part of their police certificate requirements. Given the tight application windows (caps fill within hours), have your NBI clearance ready in advance.
Citizenship Applications
When applying for Canadian citizenship, you need police certificates from every country where you lived for 6+ months since turning 18. For most Filipino-Canadians, this means an NBI clearance from the Philippines.
NBI Clearance Apostille and Authentication
Depending on your purpose, you may need your NBI clearance authenticated or apostilled by the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).
What Is Apostille?
An apostille is a form of international authentication under the Hague Convention. Since the Philippines joined the Apostille Convention on May 14, 2019, the DFA issues apostille certificates that are recognized by all member countries.
Do You Need Apostille for Canada?
Canada is also a member of the Hague Apostille Convention (effective January 11, 2024). This means a DFA-apostilled NBI clearance is now recognized in Canada without additional embassy legalization. For IRCC immigration purposes, a standard NBI clearance (without apostille) is generally sufficient. However, apostille may be required for:
- Employment purposes in Hague Convention member countries
- Legal proceedings in Canadian courts where Philippine documents are presented
- Certain professional licensing applications
- Visa applications to other countries
How to Get NBI Clearance Apostilled
- Obtain your NBI clearance first (the original, on NBI security paper — not a photocopy)
- Book an appointment at the DFA Authentication Division through apostille.gov.ph
- Submit your NBI clearance with one photocopy and a valid government-issued ID
- Pay the DFA fee:
- Regular processing: PHP 100 (released after 5 working days)
- Expedited processing: PHP 200 (released after 2 working days)
- e-Apostille: PHP 200 (released after 2 working days)
- Pick up or have delivered from DFA Authentication Division, Double Dragon Plaza, Pasay City
If you are in Canada, your authorized representative in the Philippines can process the apostille for you, or JCA Law Office can coordinate the entire process. See also: Apostille in Canada: What Filipinos Need to Know.
NBI Clearance Renewal from Canada
If your NBI clearance has expired (it is valid for 1 year) and you need a new one, the process depends on when your previous clearance was issued:
If Your Previous NBI Clearance Was Issued from 2014 Onwards
You have the easiest path: your representative in the Philippines can apply for a renewal at any NBI branch using your old clearance. The NBI’s biometric system will still have your fingerprints and records on file.
If Your Previous NBI Clearance Was Issued Before 2014
You will likely need to go through the full application process (Method 1 or 2) as the NBI may not have your biometric data in their current system.
Online Renewal (Through NBI Portal)
The NBI has an online clearance portal at clearance.nbi.gov.ph. While this system is primarily designed for applicants in the Philippines, some overseas Filipinos have used it for renewal purposes. Key points:
- Registration and payment can be done online
- Payment methods include GCash, Maya, credit/debit card, and 7-Eleven
- Fee: PHP 155 (PHP 130 clearance + PHP 25 online service charge)
- Home delivery option available within the Philippines for an additional fee
- Limitation: The portal requires a Philippine mobile number for verification, and delivery is currently only within the Philippines. You would still need someone in the Philippines to receive and forward it to Canada.
Common Issues and How to Resolve Them
Issue 1: “Hit” Status (Name Match in NBI Database)
A “hit” is the most common problem Filipinos encounter. It occurs when your name matches or closely resembles someone in the NBI’s criminal database. This is extremely common because many Filipinos share popular surnames (Santos, Reyes, Cruz, Garcia, Bautista, etc.).
What happens: Instead of getting your clearance immediately, NBI places your application on hold for manual verification. This adds 5-15 business days to processing.
How to resolve:
- If applying through a representative, they may need to return to NBI to sign an Affidavit of Denial confirming you are not the person with the record.
- Bring or submit multiple valid government-issued IDs to help the NBI distinguish you from the namesake.
- If the hit is due to a case that was dismissed or resolved, provide certified true copies of the court decision or certificate of finality.
Issue 2: Name Discrepancy Between Documents
Common examples: Your passport says “Maria Cristina” but your NBI form says “Ma. Cristina,” or your married name differs from your maiden name on file.
How to resolve:
- Use your name exactly as it appears on your Philippine passport for all NBI applications
- If there is a discrepancy, provide supporting documents (marriage certificate, court order for name change, etc.)
- For significant discrepancies, a PSA birth certificate or other supporting documents may be needed
Issue 3: Expired NBI Clearance Before Immigration Submission
Since NBI clearance is valid for 1 year but IRCC requires it to be issued within 6 months of your application, timing is critical.
How to resolve:
- Track your immigration timeline carefully and apply for NBI clearance strategically
- If IRCC processing takes longer than expected, they may request updated police certificates — this is normal
- Keep your NBI clearance renewal process ready to go in case you need a fresh one quickly
Issue 4: NBI Clearance Shows “RECORD AS STATED”
If you have an actual criminal record in the Philippines (even a minor offense), your NBI clearance will reflect this.
For IRCC submissions: You must provide a written explanation from NBI about the record, all court documents including the decision or resolution, and your own written explanation of the circumstances. An immigration lawyer can help you present this information in the best light. Contact JCA Law Office for guidance.
Issue 5: Mail Delays or Lost Documents
International mail between Canada and the Philippines can be unreliable.
How to prevent and resolve:
- Always use tracked and registered mail (Canada Post Registered Mail, FedEx, DHL, or similar)
- Keep copies of everything you send
- Track your package and follow up with NBI if delivery is confirmed but no response is received after 2 weeks
- Consider using a courier service for both directions (more expensive but much more reliable)
- JCA Law Office uses established channels to minimize delays and lost documents
Issue 6: Payment Difficulties
PNB branches in Canada no longer accept NBI clearance payments, which has caused confusion.
How to resolve:
- For consulate processing: Pay at the consulate directly (CAD $38.75)
- For NBI mailed clearance: Enclose PHP 200 in Philippine currency or US dollar equivalent with your application
- For representative processing in the Philippines: Your representative pays at the NBI branch (accepts cash, GCash, credit/debit cards at select branches)
- Contact NBI Mailed Clearance Section for current payment options: +63 (2) 8523-8231 to 38
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does it take to get NBI clearance from Canada?
The total time is typically 4-8 weeks with standard processing. This includes consulate notarization (2 days), mail transit time (1-3 weeks each way), and NBI processing (1-3 days for no-hit applications). With expedited services and courier, it can be reduced to 2-3 weeks. If you get a “hit,” add 1-2 additional weeks for verification.
2. How much does NBI clearance cost from Canada?
The total cost ranges from CAD $50 to $120 depending on your method. The consulate fee is CAD $38.75, NBI processing is approximately CAD $5.40 (PHP 200), and you will also pay for photos, fingerprinting, and courier shipping. See the full fee breakdown above.
3. Can I get NBI clearance online from Canada?
The NBI online portal (clearance.nbi.gov.ph) is primarily designed for applicants in the Philippines. While you can register and pay online, the system requires a Philippine mobile number and delivery is only within the Philippines. You would need a representative in the Philippines to receive it and forward it to you. For a fully remote process from Canada, using a Philippine Consulate is recommended.
4. Do I need to go to the Philippine Consulate in person?
No. You can complete the entire process by mail. Request the NBI Form No. 5 by mail from the consulate, have your fingerprints taken at an RCMP-accredited facility, and mail everything back to the consulate. However, visiting in person is faster and allows you to get fingerprinted at the consulate directly.
5. What is Mabuhay Connect and can I use it for NBI clearance?
Mabuhay Connect is a service platform associated with some Philippine consular services. It primarily facilitates appointment booking and some online services for Filipinos abroad. For NBI clearance, it is generally best to work directly with the Philippine Consulate or use an established legal service provider like JCA Law Office. Always verify any third-party service before sharing your personal documents and payment.
6. Can someone else pick up my NBI clearance in the Philippines?
Yes. You can authorize a representative through a Special Power of Attorney (SPA). Your representative will need the SPA, their valid ID, a copy of your valid ID, and your previously issued NBI clearance (for renewals). JCA Law Office can prepare the SPA for you.
7. What happens if I get a “hit” on my NBI clearance?
A “hit” means your name matches someone in the NBI database. This is usually a false positive due to a common name. The NBI will hold your application for further verification, which typically takes 5-15 additional business days. You or your representative may need to submit an Affidavit of Denial and additional identification documents. It does not mean you have a criminal record.
8. Is NBI clearance the same as a Philippine police clearance?
Not exactly. The NBI clearance is issued by the National Bureau of Investigation and checks national criminal databases. A “police clearance” (sometimes called a “barangay clearance” or local police clearance) is issued by local police and only covers their jurisdiction. For IRCC immigration purposes, Canada specifically requires the NBI clearance, not a local police clearance.
9. How long is NBI clearance valid?
NBI clearance is valid for 1 year from the date of issuance. However, for IRCC immigration applications, it must have been issued within 6 months of your application submission date (for current country of residence) or after you last left the Philippines (for former residents).
10. Do I need NBI clearance if I left the Philippines as a child?
If you left the Philippines before turning 18 and never returned for 6 consecutive months or longer after turning 18, you generally do not need an NBI clearance for IRCC purposes. However, if you lived there for any period of 6+ consecutive months after your 18th birthday, you do need it.
11. Can I use an old NBI clearance for my immigration application?
It depends on when it was issued and your application type. For Express Entry and most immigration applications where the Philippines is your current country of residence, the clearance must be less than 6 months old. If the Philippines is a former country of residence and you have not returned since the clearance was issued, it may still be valid. Consult an immigration lawyer if unsure.
12. Do I need to get my NBI clearance apostilled for IRCC?
No. IRCC does not require apostille on NBI clearance for standard immigration applications. A regular NBI clearance certificate is sufficient. Apostille may be required for other purposes (employment, legal proceedings in other Hague Convention countries). See the apostille section above for details.
13. What if my NBI clearance gets lost in the mail?
Always use tracked shipping. If it is confirmed lost, you will need to apply for a new NBI clearance from scratch. This is why we recommend using courier services (FedEx or DHL) for international shipments, even though they cost more. Alternatively, hire a professional service like JCA Law Office that has established processes to prevent mail loss.
14. Can I get NBI clearance from Canada if my Philippine passport is expired?
An expired passport can complicate the process, but it may still be accepted with additional identification. Each consulate has slightly different policies. Generally, you should renew your passport first, as the NBI form requires a valid passport number and the consulate may not notarize the form without a valid passport.
15. I am a dual citizen (Canadian and Filipino). Do I still need NBI clearance?
Yes, if you lived in the Philippines for 6+ months after age 18. Your Canadian citizenship does not exempt you from the NBI clearance requirement. In fact, dual citizens under RA 9225 who travel to the Philippines may also need NBI clearance for various Filipino legal transactions.
16. What is the difference between NBI clearance and CENOMAR?
NBI clearance is a criminal record check. CENOMAR (Certificate of No Marriage Record) is issued by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) and certifies your marriage status. They serve completely different purposes. For spousal sponsorship, you may need both. For police certificate requirements, you only need NBI clearance.
17. Can I request NBI clearance through a lawyer?
Yes. Law offices like JCA Law Office Professional Corporation can handle the entire NBI clearance process on your behalf. We prepare the forms, coordinate with the consulate, manage the submission to NBI Manila, and arrange delivery to your Canadian address. This is especially helpful if you are busy, live far from a consulate, or have a complex situation (hit, record, name discrepancy).
18. My NBI clearance says “NO RECORD ON FILE” — is that the same as “NO DEROGATORY RECORD”?
“NO RECORD ON FILE” and “NO DEROGATORY RECORD” are both clean results, but they are technically different. “No Record on File” means the NBI has no record of you at all in their database, while “No Derogatory Record” means they found your record but there is nothing negative. Both are acceptable for IRCC immigration applications.
19. How do I get RCMP fingerprinting for NBI clearance?
You can get fingerprinted at any RCMP detachment or RCMP-accredited fingerprinting service. The fingerprints must be rolled impressions (not flat/plain impressions) placed on the NBI Form No. 5. Ask the officer to stamp their seal on one of your 2×2 photos and provide their business card. Fees range from free (at some RCMP detachments) to CAD $25-75 (at private accredited services).
20. Can JCA Law Office help me get NBI clearance faster?
Yes. JCA Law Office has established processes and direct coordination channels that can significantly reduce processing time compared to handling it yourself. We prepare all documentation correctly the first time (avoiding rejections and re-submissions), use expedited consulate processing, ship via courier rather than regular mail, and have representatives in the Philippines who can handle NBI processing directly. Apply online to get started, or call us to discuss your timeline.
Apply for NBI Clearance Assistance
Fill out this form to start your NBI clearance application. Our team will contact you with next steps.
How JCA Law Office Can Help
At JCA Law Office Professional Corporation, NBI clearance assistance is one of our most requested services. As a firm that specializes in serving the Filipino-Canadian community, we understand the unique challenges of navigating Philippine and Canadian bureaucratic processes simultaneously.
Our NBI Clearance Services Include:
- Documentation Preparation: We complete your NBI Form No. 5 and ensure all supporting documents are properly prepared.
- Consulate Coordination: We handle the consularization process at the Philippine Consulate General in Toronto, including expedited processing.
- NBI Manila Submission: We coordinate the submission to NBI Manila and track your application through processing.
- Delivery to Your Door: Your completed NBI clearance is delivered directly to your Canadian address.
- Hit Resolution: If you encounter a “hit,” we help resolve it through our representatives in the Philippines.
- SPA Preparation: We draft Special Powers of Attorney for representative processing.
- Apostille Coordination: If you need DFA authentication, we coordinate the entire apostille process.
- Immigration Integration: If your NBI clearance is for a Canadian immigration application, we can handle both the NBI clearance and your immigration case.
Why Filipino-Canadians Choose JCA Law Office
- Experience: We have processed hundreds of NBI clearance applications for Canadian residents.
- Filipino-Owned: We understand the cultural context, language, and unique challenges our community faces.
- Proximity: Our Toronto office at 2323 Yonge Street, Suite 204, is minutes from the Philippine Consulate.
- Transparent Pricing: No hidden fees. We provide clear pricing before you commit.
- Full-Service: From NBI clearance to immigration applications to document authentication, we handle everything under one roof.
Ready to Get Your NBI Clearance?
Let JCA Law Office handle the paperwork while you focus on what matters.
Phone: 1-855-522-5290 | Email: info@jcalaw.ca
Related Resources
- JCA Law Office NBI Clearance Services
- Apostille in Canada: Speed & Savings for Filipinos
- PSA Birth Certificate from Canada Guide
- Philippine Dual Citizenship (RA 9225) Guide
- Spousal Sponsorship Canada Guide
- Filipino Immigrant Guide to Canada — From Visa to PR
- Caregiver Pathway to Canada PR Guide
- Philippine Consulate & Embassy Locations in Canada
- NBI Official Website (Philippines)
- IRCC: How to Get a Philippine Police Certificate
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Fees, processing times, and requirements are subject to change. Always verify current information with the Philippine Consulate, NBI, or IRCC directly. Last updated February 2026.

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