NBI HIT Explained — What It Means and How to Resolve It

Got an NBI HIT? Don’t panic. An NBI HIT is common — especially for Filipinos with popular names. This guide explains what an NBI HIT means, why it happens, and how to resolve it so you can get your NBI clearance.

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What is an NBI HIT?

When you apply for an NBI clearance, the NBI runs your name through their database. If your name matches an existing record, your application gets flagged as a “HIT.”

A HIT does NOT necessarily mean you have a criminal record. It simply means a name match was found in the NBI database.

Your NBI clearance will be delayed until the HIT is resolved. The resolution process depends on the type of HIT — namesake or derogatory record.

Types of NBI HIT

Namesake HIT (Most Common)

Your name matches someone else in the NBI database. This is extremely common with Filipino names — many people share the same first and last name. A namesake HIT is resolved by submitting an Affidavit of Denial, which states you are not the person in the record.

Derogatory Record HIT

Your name is matched to an actual case or criminal record in the NBI database. This may be a case you were involved in, a case filed against you (even if dismissed), or an old record that was never cleared. Resolving a derogatory record requires more documentation and may need legal assistance.

How to Know If You Have a HIT

  • If you applied online through the NBI website, your status will show “HIT” instead of “NO HIT” or “With Result”
  • If you applied through us, we check your NBI status and notify you immediately if a HIT is detected
  • A HIT does not appear on the clearance itself — it’s a processing status that must be resolved before your clearance can be issued

How to Resolve a Namesake HIT

If your HIT is a namesake match, follow these steps to resolve it:

Step 1: Obtain an NBI Quality Report

This report shows the details of the record your name matched. The NBI issues this after detecting the HIT.

Step 2: Prepare an Affidavit of Denial

A sworn statement declaring you are not the person in the NBI record. This must be notarized.

Step 3: Notarize the Affidavit

In Canada, this can be done by a notary public or commissioner of oaths.

Step 4: Authenticate at the Philippine Consulate

The notarized affidavit must be authenticated by the Philippine Consulate General (PCG) for use in the Philippines.

Step 5: Submit to NBI Manila

The authenticated affidavit is submitted to NBI along with your application for re-processing.

Step 6: Wait for Clearance

NBI reviews the documents and, if satisfied, issues your clearance.

This process is complex and time-consuming. NBI Renewal Canada handles every step — from affidavit preparation to consulate authentication to NBI submission. Contact us for help.

How to Resolve a Derogatory Record

A derogatory record requires different handling depending on the nature of the case:

Dismissed Case

If the case was dismissed, you need certified copies of the court order of dismissal. These must be submitted to NBI to clear the record.

Resolved Case

If the case was resolved (acquittal, settlement), court documentation showing the resolution is required.

Active Case

If there is an active case, the NBI clearance cannot be issued until the case is resolved through the Philippine legal system.

Derogatory records often require legal expertise. Our team, backed by JCA Law Office, provides full legal support for HIT resolution — including document preparation, consulate coordination, and communication with NBI Manila.

How We Help with NBI HIT Resolution

NBI Renewal Canada is the only NBI clearance service in Canada backed by a licensed law firm. When you have a HIT, that legal backing makes all the difference.

What we do:

  • Review your NBI Quality Report to determine the type of HIT
  • Prepare the Affidavit of Denial or Admission as needed
  • Handle notarization in Ontario
  • Coordinate authentication with the Philippine Consulate
  • Submit all documents to NBI Manila
  • Follow up until your clearance is issued

NBI HIT FAQ

Is an NBI HIT the same as having a criminal record?

No. A HIT means your name matched a record in the NBI database. Most HITs are namesake matches — someone else with the same name has a record. It does not mean you have a criminal record.

How common are NBI HITs?

Very common, especially for Filipinos with popular names like Santos, Reyes, Cruz, Garcia, or Dela Cruz. Thousands of clearance applications result in namesake HITs every year.

How long does HIT resolution take?

Namesake HITs typically take 4–8 weeks to resolve. Derogatory records may take longer depending on the complexity of the case and the availability of court documents.

Can I resolve an NBI HIT from Canada?

Yes. NBI Renewal Canada handles the entire process remotely — including affidavit preparation, notarization, consulate authentication, and NBI submission. You don’t need to travel to the Philippines.

How much does HIT resolution cost?

Pricing varies depending on the type of HIT and the complexity of the case. Contact us for a free assessment and quote.

What if my HIT is not resolved?

If you have a legitimate namesake issue, it will be resolved. For derogatory records, the outcome depends on the nature of the case. Our legal team will advise you on your options.

More questions? Visit our FAQ page.

Need Help Resolving an NBI HIT?

Don’t let an NBI HIT delay your immigration application or other plans. Our team has resolved hundreds of HITs for clients across Canada.

Email info@nbirenewal.ca or call 416-546-2627.