Key takeaways
- IRCC accepts the paper NBI Multi-purpose Clearance Certificate; the digital or online version is not accepted
- You can apply online or in person at any NBI office; the online part is the application route, and the certificate you submit must be paper
- From abroad, apply at a Philippine Embassy or Consulate or by mail to the NBI Head Office
- No translation is needed because the certificate is in English
- If remarks such as “no criminal record, no pending case or record as stated” appear, IRCC asks for extra documents
- IRCC gives no NBI fees, processing times or validity period
The document IRCC accepts
IRCC’s Philippines police certificate page says to submit the “National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Multi-purpose Clearance Certificate (paper version).” It adds: “Digital/online version of the NBI is not accepted for IRCC purposes.” It also says: “No translation is required, the NBI Clearance certificate is in English.”
The page says you can apply “Online or in person at any National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) office.” This can seem to conflict with the paper rule. The difference is this: applying online is a way to request the certificate. The certificate you submit to IRCC must be the paper version.
How to apply
IRCC lists these ways to apply:
- Online or in person at any NBI office.
- In person at your nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate.
- By mail to the NBI Head Office.
IRCC says: “NBI Clearance certificates must be picked up in person, unless the requestor is residing outside the Philippines, in which case the NBI Clearance certificate will be mailed.”
IRCC does not explain the steps for people who are in Canada now. We do not list NBI fees, processing times or appointment steps, because IRCC does not give them. Check the NBI’s own website for these. IRCC’s page lists an NBI telephone number without a country or area code, so we do not repeat it.
If the certificate has remarks
IRCC says that if remarks such as “no criminal record, no pending case or record as stated” appear on the certificate, you must also submit:
- A written explanation from the NBI about the remark.
- All court documents for the criminal charges. IRCC says to provide complete copies of the decision or the resolution of the case. Certifications from the clerks of court are not acceptable.
- Your own explanation of the incident that led to the charges.
We quote IRCC’s wording exactly. IRCC does not explain it further.
Who needs a certificate and when
Under IRCC’s Express Entry police certificates page, you and your family members who are 18 years or older need a certificate for every country where you stayed for 6 months in a row or longer in the last 10 years. You do not need one for time before age 18 or for time in Canada. An officer may ask for more certificates from any time in your life since you were 18.
| Your situation | What IRCC says |
|---|---|
| The Philippines is where you live now | The certificate must be issued no more than 6 months before the date you submit your application. |
| The Philippines is another country | The certificate must be issued after the last time you stayed there for 6 months in a row or longer. |
| Format | Upload scanned copies of the original certificate in colour. Certified true copies or unauthorized copies will not be accepted. |
If your certificate is late
IRCC says that if a certificate is late, you can give a letter of explanation plus proof that shows you made your best effort. Examples are receipts or a tracking number. Because a paper certificate is mailed to people outside the Philippines, keep these records.
What to do next
- List every country where you stayed 6 months in a row or longer in the last 10 years, after age 18.
- Start your NBI request early. Choose the apply route that fits where you live.
- Check that you get the paper Multi-purpose Clearance Certificate.
- Check the certificate for remarks. If one appears, gather the extra documents.
- Scan the original in colour and keep your receipts and tracking number.
Compare with our guide to the Indian police clearance certificate. Read our page for people moving from the Philippines and use the document checklist generator.
Frequently asked questions
Does IRCC accept the digital NBI clearance?
No. IRCC says the digital or online version of the NBI is not accepted for IRCC purposes.
Can I apply for the NBI clearance online?
IRCC says you can apply online or in person at any NBI office. The certificate you submit must be the paper version.
Do I need a translation?
No. IRCC says no translation is required because the certificate is in English.
How much does it cost and how long does it take?
IRCC does not say. Check the NBI’s own website.
Sources
- IRCC: Police certificates, Philippines (checked October 19, 2026)
- IRCC: Express Entry, police certificates (checked October 19, 2026)
This is general information, not legal or immigration advice. For your situation, consult a licensed immigration consultant (RCIC) or lawyer.
