What to Do If NBI Clearance Has Hit in the Philippines: Complete Guide

Getting a "HIT" on your NBI clearance means the fingerprints matched an existing NBI record. Don't panic - many hits are due to common names or past records that can be cleared with documents. Below are steps to resolve it fast.

1. Understand what a "HIT" means

• A "HIT" indicates a possible match in the NBI records (criminal record, prior arrest, or similar identity).
• It can be a true match, mistaken identity, or incomplete records. The NBI must verify before issuing a clearance.

2. Immediate actions at the NBI center

• Stay calm and get the printed application receipt / transaction number.
• Ask the NBI personnel what type of hit it is (identity match, case number, or other).
• If directed, surrender to the Records Division for further processing as instructed.

3. Checklist - What to bring when your NBI clearance hits

• Printed NBI application or transaction receipt (booking reference).
• Valid IDs (bring at least two originals: e.g., passport, UMID, driver's license, SSS/GSIS).
• Old NBI clearance copies (if you have prior clearances).
• Court documents (if you were involved in a case): final judgment, dismissal, o.r./c.c., acquittal, or cert. of non-appearance.
• PSA birth certificate and marriage certificate (if name discrepancies).
• Affidavit of Explanation or Notarized Statutory Declaration (for mistaken identity).
• Photocopies of all documents (bring originals + copies).
• Official receipt of payment (if required).

4. Documentary verification - what to expect

• NBI Records will verify the hit against their database and may ask for your supporting documents.
• Processing time varies: same day in simple mistaken-identity cases, or several days to weeks for full verification.
• You may be given a reference number and told to return on a specific date or wait for a message.

5. If it's mistaken identity

• Provide an affidavit saying you are not the person in the record, plus IDs and proof (birth certificate, school IDs, old NBI clearance).
• Ask Records Division to re-check fingerprints and name details.
• Follow up in person or by the NBI contact channels if no update in the given timeframe.

6. If the hit is a genuine record

• Request a certified copy of the court disposition or record causing the hit.
• If you were convicted and it's still active, consult a lawyer about possible remedies (appeal, expungement, or pardon) - legal steps can be lengthy.
• If the case was dismissed or you were acquitted, bring the official court documents to NBI for updating/clearing the record.

7. Follow-up and escalation

• Note down the Records Division reference or the name of the staff you spoke with.
• Follow up after the given waiting period. For central cases, visit NBI Central Records in Manila if needed.
• Use NBI Online Services or the official NBI hotline/contact page (nbi.gov.ph or onlineservices.nbi.gov.ph) to check status updates.

8. Practical tips to speed things up

• Bring clear, original documents and multiple IDs to avoid repeated trips.
• If you have old NBI clearances that show "NO RECORD", bring them as proof.
• Be polite but persistent; always get a receipt or reference number for any submission.
• Photocopy and prepare scanned copies in case the Records Division requests emailed documents.

9. When to seek legal help

• If you find an actual conviction that you believe is erroneous, or you need expungement/pardon, consult a lawyer experienced in criminal/judicial records.
• Legal counsel helps gather proper court papers and file necessary motions.

Quick timeline expectations

• Mistaken identity: often resolved within days.
• Cases needing court documents or further investigation: can take weeks to months.
• Genuine convictions require court processes and may take much longer.

If you need to follow up today: go back to the NBI office where you applied, present documents, get a reference number, and check the NBI online portal for status updates.

Good luck - most hits are resolvable with the right documents and patience.