NBI Police Clearance: Guide to the Philippines PCC

If you have lived or worked in the Philippines and are now applying for immigration, employment, or education abroad, you will likely need an NBI Police Clearance Certificate—also known as the Philippines Police Clearance Certificate or PCC.

Wondering how to get it from India?

This post will help you understand the full process, required documents, and how to make the process easier with help from experts like RealScan Biometrics.

What is the NBI Police Clearance Certificate?

The NBI Police Clearance is an official document issued by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) in the Philippines. It confirms whether or not you have any criminal records during your time in the Philippines.

It is commonly required for:

• Immigration and visa applications (Canada, Australia, USA, etc.)
• Employment in government or private sectors
• University admissions or scholarship applications
• Residence or dependent visa requirements

Who Needs a Philippines PCC?

You will need an NBI clearance if you:

• Previously lived, worked, or studied in the Philippines
• Are applying for immigration or a work permit in another country
• Need to prove you had no criminal history during your stay there
• Have been requested to submit one by foreign authorities

Even if you are now residing in India, you can still apply for your NBI Clearance Certificate.

Documents Required to Apply for NBI Clearance from India

To apply from India, you will need:

• Valid passport copy (showing identity and stay in the Philippines)
• Old Philippine visa or Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR) (if available)
• Recent passport-size photographs (white background)
• Completed NBI Clearance application form (Form No. 5)
• Fingerprint card (rolled and plain impressions) taken by an authorized agency in India
• Authorization letter (if someone is submitting on your behalf in the Philippines)
• Cover letter stating the purpose of the clearance

How to Apply for NBI Clearance from India: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Capture Your Fingerprints

The first and most critical step is getting your fingerprints taken on NBI Form No. 5.

Tip: Use a certified agency like RealScan Biometrics. We specialize in NBI-compliant fingerprinting, ensuring your card is accepted by NBI without rejection or delay.

We will provide:

• Proper ink-based fingerprints
• High-resolution scanned copies if needed
• Guidance on how to fill out Form No. 5

Step 2: Authenticate the Fingerprint Form

Once you have the fingerprint card:

• Get it attested by a Notary Public
• Proceed with MEA (Ministry of External Affairs) attestation
• Submit to the Philippine Embassy in India for final authentication

This attestation confirms the identity and validity of your fingerprints and documents.

Step 3: Submit the Documents to the Philippines

There are two ways to submit your documents:

• Via a representative in the Philippines (authorized through a notarized letter)
• By postal mail directly to the NBI Clearance Center in Manila

Your representative (if used) will submit the documents, pay the clearance fee, and collect the certificate once ready.

Step 4: Receive Your Clearance Certificate

Once processed, the NBI will issue:

• A hard copy certificate stating “No Record” or “Record as stated”
• Your representative can courier it to your Indian address

You may also check updates via the NBI portal or through your contact

How RealScan Biometrics Can Help?

If you are in India and do not want the stress of paperwork and fingerprinting errors, let RealScan Biometrics guide you through:

• NBI-compliant fingerprinting on Form No. 5
• Notary and attestation support (MEA & Philippine Embassy)
• Documentation guidance
• Representative coordination assistance

Our team ensures every step is error-free, speeding up the process and reducing the chance of rejections.

Estimated Timeline

Fingerprinting & attestation: 3–5 business days

Shipping documents to the Philippines: 5–7 business days

NBI Processing Time: 10–15 working days

Delivery to India: 5–7 business days (by courier)

Total Time: Around 3 to 4 weeks, depending on postal services and holidays.

FAQs About NBI Clearance from India

Q: Can I apply for NBI Clearance online from India?

A: No. While registration is available online, NBI requires physical documents, including fingerprint cards, to be submitted either via post or through a representative.

Q: Is the NBI fingerprint form available online?

A: Yes, Form No. 5 can be downloaded from the official NBI website. RealScan Biometrics also provides the correct form with instructions.

Q: What if I don’t have my Philippine visa or ACR card?

A: You can still apply using your passport and your stay details. However, any supporting document that proves your time in the Philippines is helpful.

Q: Can RealScan apply on my behalf?

A: Yes, RealScan does submit the application and can help with fingerprinting and documentation.

Q: How long is the NBI clearance valid?

A: It is generally valid for 6 months to 1 year, depending on the country’s visa or immigration requirement.

Read More

Philippines PCC FAQs

Final Thoughts

Getting an NBI Police Clearance Certificate from India might seem complicated, but it’s fully doable with the right approach. Whether you are migrating, working abroad, or applying for further studies, this document is key to proving your clean record in the Philippines.

Get professional help from RealScan Biometrics and speed up the process with peace of mind.

Ready to Start Your NBI Clearance Process?

Contact us today for fingerprinting, attestation support, and complete guidance for your Philippines Police Clearance.