Clearing an NBI record is a common concern for many Filipinos, especially when applying for jobs, visas or government services. An NBI record may appear if your name is similar to someone involved in a criminal case or if there is an unfinished issue in the NBI system.
This guide explains how to Clear NBI Record, what it means, how long the process takes and what to do if you were falsely accused. Everything is written in simple and easy language so everyone can understand it.
What is NBI Clearance “Hit” Mean?
An NBI record refers to any information stored in the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) database that is linked to your name. This record may include:
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Criminal cases (past or ongoing)
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Court cases with the same or similar name
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Previous complaints or warrants
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Name matches (also known as “namesake” cases)
Having an NBI record does not always mean you committed a crime. Many people get an NBI record simply because they share the same name as someone else.
What Does NBI Clearance “Hit” Mean?
An NBI Clearance Hit happens when the system finds a match between your name and an existing record in the NBI database.
Common reasons for an NBI Hit:
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Same name as a person with a criminal case.
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Similar personal details (birthdate or address).
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Previous unresolved case.
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Clerical or system error.
If you have a “Hit,” your NBI clearance will not be released immediately and will need verification.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Clear NBI Record
Here is how you can clear or fix your NBI record:
Step 1: Visit the NBI Clearance Office
Go to the NBI Main Clearance Center or the nearest NBI regional office where you got your clearance.
Bring these items with you:
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Your valid ID
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Your NBI Clearance receipt or reference number
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Any court documents (if you have them)
Step 2: Go to the HIT Verification Section
When you arrive in NBI Office tell the officer that your clearance showed a “HIT” and you want to verify it.
You will be scheduled for an interview with a Verification Officer who will check your record carefully.
Step 3: Attend the Personal Verification Interview
During the interview the officer will ask questions to make sure you are not the same person in the record.
They may ask about:
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Your full name, Date of Birth and address
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Any past cases you were involved in
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Names of relatives or nicknames (aliases)
Step 4: Submit Supporting Documents (If Needed)
If the officer finds a record with a name similar to yours. You may need to show documents such as:
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Certificate of Finality of Case (if your case was already dismissed)
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Court Clearance from the trial court
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Police Clearance or Barangay Certificate of Good Moral Character
These papers help prove your innocence or show that your case was already settled.
Step 5: Wait for the Verification Process
The NBI will take about 5 to 10 working days to finish checking your record.
You will get a claim slip that tells you when to come back for your updated clearance.
Step 6: Claim Your Cleared NBI Clearance
Go back to the NBI office on the date written on your slip to get your new clearance.
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If your name is cleared it will say “No Record on File.”
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If a record still exists it will show the case type and status such as “Dismissed,” “Acquitted,” or “For further verification.”
Can You Clear an NBI Record Online?
No you cannot fully clear an NBI record online.
While the application and appointment booking can be done online the actual clearing process requires manual verification by NBI officers. In some cases you may need to:
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Appear in person.
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Submit additional documents.
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Provide court clearances or affidavits.
Online systems are used only for registration, not record resolution.
However you can set an appointment online before going to the office to save time. Just visit https://clearance.nbi.gov.ph and schedule your appointment there.
How Long Does It Take to Clear an NBI Record?
The time needed to clear an NBI record depends on the situation.
| Situation | Estimated Time |
|---|---|
| Simple name match | 5–10 working days |
| Common name cases | 10–15 working days |
| With court verification | 2–4 weeks |
| Complex or old cases | Up to 1 month |
How to Clear Your Name if You Were Falsely Accused
If you were wrongly linked to a case you can still clear your name.
What you may need:
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Court clearance or certificate of dismissal.
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Affidavit of denial.
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Barangay clearance.
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Valid IDs with correct details.
Submit these documents to the NBI office handling your case. After verification your record will be updated.
How to Request for Correction or Update of Your NBI Record
If you already cleared your name but your record still shows a “hit” when you renew your NBI Clearance follow these steps:
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Go to the NBI main office or send an email to nbiclearance@nbi.gov.ph.
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Attach copies of your old NBI Clearance and the court order that cleared your name.
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Ask the NBI to update your record or remove the old data from their system.
The NBI will check your request and update their database once everything is verified.
Important Tips to Avoid NBI Clearance Problems
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Always enter correct personal details.
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Use your full legal name.
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Bring multiple valid IDs.
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Keep copies of old clearances.
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Follow NBI instructions carefully.
Being accurate helps reduce delays and repeated hits.
Why Clearing Your NBI Record Is Important
Clearing your NBI record is essential because NBI clearance is required for:
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Local and overseas employment.
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Visa and immigration applications.
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Government transactions.
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Business permits.
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Professional licenses.
A cleared record ensures smooth processing and avoids future issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I clear my NBI record without going to the main office?
Yes You can go to any NBI regional office but the process is usually faster at the NBI Main Office in Manila.
Q2: Is there a fee for clearing an NBI record?
No there is no extra fee. You only need to pay the regular NBI Clearance fee (₱130 plus service charge).
Q3: What if my case was already dismissed?
Bring a Certificate of Finality or Court Clearance that proves your case was dismissed. The NBI will then mark your record as cleared.
Q4: How can I know if my record is already cleared?
Check your NBI Clearance result. If it says “No Record on File,” that means your name is already cleared.
Q5: Can an old or dismissed case still appear?
Yes Sometimes old data stays in the system. That’s why you need to request manual verification or correction to fix it.
Conclusion
Clearing your NBI record helps make sure your name is free from false matches or old cases. Always go through official NBI offices and provide complete documents to make the process smooth. Once you finish the verification and your record is updated you can proudly use your NBI Clearance for jobs, travel or legal needs knowing that your name is officially clean.
