NBI Clearance, the easy way.
I wasn't aware about the changes with the process of acquiring an NBI Clearance, until now that I'll be needing one. There's no more renewal and everyone has to apply for a new one. Hearing from friends that you need to be at any of their branches as early as 4:00 AM and that there's a cut-off when there's already 500 people, was very dreadful. What's worse is that you're most likely to finish the whole process at around 2:00 PM, or even 6:00 PM. And the worst, of course, is when you get a hit. My problem is, I'm not so good when it comes to waking up early. I can't even get off the bed at 6:00 AM. So, I asked my friends for suggestions as to where I can go? A branch where there are less people and the process is a bit quicker. Someone told me to go to Robinsons Place Manila, and another one said Robinsons Otis. Wherein the latter one is much better since not so many people know about that branch. But I'm the type of person who always want to know what I'm getting myself into, before I actually dwell on it. I then searched the net for info about NBI Clearance, the process, and their branches. I've read from a blog that there's already a lot of people going to Robinsons Otis. I was about to get frustrated. But then I thought, why don't I check NBI's website. There might be another way. And yes, I'm right. There is another way. Online Application it is. Since it was holy week at that time. I just made the payment through GCash, filled out the online application form, and booked my application for Tuesday, April 10, 1:30 PM. When I got there, they didn't allowed me to enter since I'm wearing a dress without sleeves. I thought it's just sando shirts or tank tops that aren't allowed. So everyone, keep in mind that there's a dress code. Rule: When in doubt, leave it out. Just check NBI's website for more info. Back to my experience, I just went to SM MOA for my Medical Exam instead. I had my NBI Clearance application rebooked for the next day, Wednesday, April 11, 10:00 AM. And here's what happenned: 9:30 AM - Left home without even rushing. Completely forgot that Wednesday is Baclaran Day, hence, heavy traffic. 10:45 AM - Arrived at NBI U.N. branch (Main). I felt so relieved when I saw how many people were there and knowing that I don't have to fall in line anymore. It felt like heaven passing all of them and going straight to E-clearance section. 10:50 AM - Reached the E-clearance section on the 4th floor. There were about 8-10 people already waiting. Gave the QR code print-out. 11:15 AM - My name was called. Presented a valid ID. Was asked for the GCash receipt (not really required), but I don't have it with me. Image and biometrics were captured. 11:27 AM - Was given a receipt and was told to just come back on the 16th (after 5 days) to claim the clearance at the releasing section. Even if you don't get a hit, the process really requires you to just come back. Some people have to wait for 10 days. I don't know their basis when it comes to that. Then, I headed home. Not bad. I would prefer to just go back another day, instead of spending the whole day at the NBI. Now here's the link: http://www.nbi.gov.ph/online_application.html. Just follow the instructions. Feel free to ask questions or ask for help. I'd be more than willing to guide you through the steps.