For many Filipinos living and working in Portugal, obtaining an NBI Clearance is a crucial task often required for visa applications, employment, or other official processes. Unlike applying in the Philippines, the process from abroad requires careful coordination between you, the Philippine Embassy in Lisbon, and the NBI Central Office in Manila. Following the correct steps from the start will save you time and avoid common delays.

Here's a comprehensive guide with tips to ensure your NBI appointment and application from Portugal is a smooth and efficient process.

1. Get Started with the NBI Online Portal

The first step in your NBI Clearance application, regardless of your location, is to register and create an account on the official NBI website. This is a crucial starting point that generates your unique reference number and a QR code, which are essential for tracking your application. When filling out your details, ensure that all information is correct and matches your Philippine passport. Do not attempt to schedule an in-person appointment at an NBI branch in the Philippines; this online step is only for creating your electronic registration.

After completing the online registration and paying the required fee, be sure to save and print the application form containing your reference number. This document will be a vital part of your submission package.

2. Gather Your Key Documents for the Embassy

Your appointment at the Philippine Embassy in Lisbon is the most important in-person step of the process. To avoid any problems, you should prepare all required documents in advance. You will need your original, valid Philippine passport and a photocopy of the data page. You should also bring a printed copy of the NBI online application form with your reference number. For a new application, you will also need one (1) recent 2x2 photograph with a white background, taken within the last three months.

The embassy will provide you with the official NBI Fingerprint Card (Form No. 5) , which is the key document for your biometrics. You should not attempt to print or obtain this form elsewhere.

3. Schedule an appointment with the Philippine Embassy

The Philippine Embassy in Lisbon is responsible for conducting the fingerprinting process for all Filipinos in Portugal. You should contact them directly to schedule an appointment. You can do so by calling or emailing the consular section. Be sure to clarify any specific requirements the embassy may have and any associated consular fees, which are separate from the NBI processing fee. Official embassy assistance in fingerprinting is crucial because their certification authenticates your identity to the NBI in Manila.

4. The Crucial Embassy Fingerprinting Process

During your appointment at the embassy, a consular officer will assist you in completing the NBI Fingerprint Card (Form No. 5) and taking your fingerprints using black ink. They will also sign the card, stamp it with the embassy's official seal, and indicate your designation to certify that the fingerprints were taken professionally and officially. You must also paste your passport-sized photograph on the card and sign it as instructed. This certified fingerprint card is the official document that will be sent to the NBI for processing.

5. Submit Documents to NBI Central Office in Manila

After your appointment at the Philippine Embassy, you will receive a complete package: your official NBI Fingerprint Card, a photocopy of your passport, a copy of your online application form, and proof of payment of the NBI fee.

Your next step is to submit this package to the NBI Document Submission Section at the NBI Central Office in Manila. It is highly recommended that you authorize a trusted representative, such as a family member or friend, to submit the documents on your behalf. You must provide them with a signed Letter of Authorization or Special Power of Attorney (SPA) to ensure they can act on your behalf. The representative will then submit the documents and pay the final processing fees.

6. A Checklist for a Smooth Process

website: https://nbiappointmentonline.org/