A Step-by-Step Payment Guide for First-Time and Returning Applicants
Applying for an NBI clearance is now mostly digital—but many applicants still get confused. Just like getting a Police Clearance in the Philippines, the NBI process requires careful attention to detail.
This guide explains every available payment option, how to choose the right one, and what to do if something goes wrong—so you can complete your application without delays.
Why Payment Is a Required Step
Your NBI clearance application will not move forward unless payment is completed successfully. If you're unsure which document you need, check our guide on NBI vs Police Clearance.
Step Activation
Activate Appointment
Ensures your appointment is officially recognized by the system.
Slot Reservation
Reserve Biometrics Slot
Secures your place for the fingerprinting and photo capture process.
Ref Number
Generate Reference Number
Produces the unique code needed for all payment transactions.
Application Status
Confirm Application
Formally logs your application as "Pending" in the NBI database.
Booking an appointment without paying does not count as a completed application.
When Do You Pay for NBI Clearance?
Payment happens as the final part of the registration phase:
Only after these steps will the system generate your payment instructions and reference number.
How Much Is the NBI Clearance Fee?
The total cost of an NBI clearance application is composed of the base fee and a small technical service charge. Ensure you have all the required documents for police clearance or NBI before your visit.
Item
Amount
NBI Clearance
₱130
System / Service Fee
₱25
Total
₱155
Fees may vary slightly depending on the payment channel used.
Available Payment Methods (Overview)
The NBI system supports multiple payment channels to make it accessible nationwide.
GCash
Mobile Wallets
Quick and easy payments via the GCash app on your smartphone.
Online Banking
Bank Transfers
Secure payment portals for most major Philippine banks.
Over-the-counter
Payment Centers
Physical locations like Bayad Center, SM Store, and Robinson’s.
E-wallets
Digital Platforms
Support for various other e-wallets and digital payment systems.
Note: Each method has different steps, which we’ll explain below.
Step-by-Step: How to Pay for NBI Clearance Online
1
Log In to the Official NBI Portal
Use the same account you used for registration.
Go to your dashboard
Review your application details
Confirm appointment schedule
2
Select a Payment Option
The system will show a list of available channels. Choose the one that best fits your situation:
Online(fastest)
Over-the-counter(cash-based)
Once selected, the system will generate a reference number.
Do not close the page before saving this number.
How to Pay Using GCash
GCash is one of the most popular payment options due to speed and convenience. It works similarly when you pay for police clearance using GCash.
Payment Steps:
1
Open your GCash app
2
Select Pay Bills or Government (depending on app version)
3
Choose the NBI payment partner
4
Enter your reference number
5
Confirm amount
6
Complete payment
Always double-check the reference number before confirming.
After Paying via GCash
Once the transaction is complete, the process moves quickly:
Reflection
Payment usually reflects within minutes
Notification
You’ll receive a confirmation message
Dashboard
Your NBI dashboard updates automatically
Screenshot your receipt for backup.
How to Pay via Online Banking
Most major Philippine banks support NBI payments through their secure digital platforms.
General Process:
1
Log in to your bank’s app or website
2
Select Pay Bills
3
Choose the NBI or authorized payment partner
4
Enter your reference number
5
Confirm payment
Note: Posting time may take a few hours depending on the bank.
How to Pay Over the Counter
If you don’t use digital wallets or online banking, you can easily pay in cash at various physical locations.
Common Payment Locations:
• Bayad Center
• Convenience stores (7-Eleven, etc.)
• Authorized remittance centers
What You Need:
Reference number
Correct payment amount
Note: Keep the printed receipt until your appointment day.
Complete Application Process
To ensure a smooth experience, follow this complete workflow from start to finish:
Complete application
Fill out the online form accurately with your personal details.
Select appointment
Choose your preferred NBI branch, date, and time slot.
Get reference number
Save the unique code generated by the system for payment.
Pay using chosen method
Use GCash, Online Banking, or Over-the-counter channels.
Payment confirmed
Verify that your status has changed to "Paid" on your dashboard.
Attend appointment
Visit the NBI branch on your scheduled date for biometrics.
How to Check If Your Payment Was Successful
Don't leave it to chance! Here are three easy ways to verify your payment status:
Option 1
Check Your Dashboard
Log in to the official NBI portal and look for:
“Paid” status
Active appointment details
Option 2
Email or SMS Notification
Some payment channels, such as GCash or certain banks, automatically send confirmation messages once the transaction is successful.
Option 3
Payment Receipt
Always keep a digital or printed copy of your receipt as proof of transaction. This is your primary backup if any disputes arise.
Note: Most digital payments reflect instantly, but allow up to 24 hours for system synchronization before worrying.
What If Payment Does Not Reflect?
This is common and usually temporary. Don't worry if your status doesn't change immediately.
What to Do:
Wait 24 hours
Refresh dashboard
Avoid paying twice
Contact support only after waiting period
Do not create a new application immediately.
Can You Change Payment Method After Selection?
In most cases, the system locks in your selection once the reference number is generated.
Immutable Selection
You cannot change the payment method once the reference number is generated.
Reset Option
You can wait for the reference to expire and try again to select a different method.
Always select carefully before confirming to avoid waiting for expiry.
Payment Validity and Reference Expiry
Understand how long your payment details and appointments remain valid.
Item
Validity Period
Reference Number
Usually 24–48 hours
Paid Appointment
Valid on scheduled date
Unpaid Reference
Automatically expires
Expired references require regeneration through the portal.
Common Payment Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding these common errors will ensure your application process stays on track.
Wrong Reference
Entering the incorrect reference number during payment transactions.
Incorrect Amount
Paying an amount that doesn't match the required fee plus service charge.
Third-party Reference
Attempting to use another person's reference number for your own payment.
Premature Closing
Closing the browser or app before receiving a final confirmation message.
Double Payment
Paying twice because the status didn't update instantly. Patience is key.
These mistakes can significantly delay your appointment and clearance processing.
Tips for Smooth Payment Experience
Follow these simple tips to make your payment process as seamless as possible.
Stable Internet
Ensure you have a reliable connection before starting the transaction.
Banking Hours
Ideally, pay during banking hours if you're using online banking portals.
Save Confirmations
Screenshot or download all payment receipts and reference numbers.
Early Payment
Avoid last-minute payments to give the system time to sync.
Own Account
Use your own banking or GCash account for easier tracking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find quick, simple answers to the most common questions about NBI clearance payments.
No. Payment must be completed before appearing.
Generally no. Rescheduling rules apply.
Yes, as long as they use your reference number.
Not always, but it’s recommended.
Final Thoughts
Paying for NBI clearance is straightforward once you understand the
process. The key is choosing the right payment method, entering
details correctly, and keeping proof of payment.
With payment completed properly, the rest of your application becomes smooth and predictable.