- Do you want to apply for your international passport and don't know how or where to start?
- Understanding the basic steps involved in the application process is important
- TheRadar has compiled a step-by-step guide for a successful passport application, renewal, or replacement
The Nigerian passport is essential for travel, visa applications, and identification, making it crucial to understand the application process.
The Federal Government issues passports to eligible citizens, including those who acquire citizenship by birth, descent, adoption, registration, or naturalisation.
While the system has been modernised with online applications, payments, and biometric appointment scheduling, some people still find the process confusing, especially first-time applicants and those renewing expired passports.
To successfully obtain a Nigerian passport, applicants must gather the required documents, complete the online application, and attend biometric capture.
Understanding processing times and possible delays can also help with better planning, especially for urgent travel.
This article by TheRadar provides a step-by-step guide to applying for, renewing, or replacing a Nigerian passport, ensuring a smooth and stress-free process.
Eligibility criteria for application
To apply for a Nigerian passport, you must:
- Be a Nigerian citizen.
- Possess a National Identification Number (NIN).
- Have passport photographs that meet International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards.
Required documents for application
Ensure you have the following documents ready:
- National Identification Number (NIN): A valid NIN is mandatory for all passport applicants.
- Birth certificate or age declaration: This can be obtained from the National Population Commission (NPC) or through a sworn affidavit.
- Passport photographs: Two recent passport-sized photos with a white background.
- Completed application form: Filled out online on the NIS portal.
- Payment slip: Proof of payment for the passport application.
Additional requirements
- For minors: A birth certificate and a signed letter of consent from the parent or guardian, along with their passport data page.
- For married women: Marriage certificate and proof of name change (if applicable).
- For senior citizens: Proof of age, such as a birth certificate or statutory age declaration.
Step-by-step application process
1. Visit the NIS portal
- Go to the official Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) website.
- Register for an account or log in if you already have one.
2. Fill out the application form
- Once logged in, choose “Apply for Passport.”
- Select the type of passport you want (32-page or 64-page, 5 years or 10 years validity).
- Provide your personal information, including your NIN, name, address, and date of birth. Ensure all fields are filled out accurately.
3. Make payment
- After filling in your details, proceed to make payment online via debit/credit card or designated bank.
- The fee depends on the type of passport you selected (₦50,000 for a 32-page passport with 5 years of validity, ₦100,000 for a 64-page passport with 10 years of validity).
- Print the payment slip and the acknowledgement receipt after a successful transaction.
4. Schedule a biometric capture appointment
- You will be required to choose a date for biometric capture at the nearest NIS office.
- Select a centre close to you and pick an available time slot for your appointment.
5. Attend your biometric capture appointment
- Arrive at the NIS office with your required documents, payment slip, and acknowledgement slip.
- Submit all necessary documents and undergo biometric capture, which includes fingerprint and facial recognition.
6. Passport collection
- Once your passport is ready, you will be notified to come and pick it up.
- Go to the NIS office with your identification to collect your passport.
Processing time
The processing time for a Nigerian passport can vary based on several factors, including the type of passport, the processing centre, and the applicant's location.
Generally, it takes about 4 to 6 weeks from the date of biometric capture for the passport to be ready for collection.
However, delays can occur, so it's advisable to apply well in advance of any planned travel.
Additional tips
- Accuracy: Ensure all information provided during the application is accurate to avoid delays.
- Documentation: Keep copies of all submitted documents and payment receipts.
- Updates: Regularly check the email address provided during the application for updates or notifications from the NIS.
Obtaining a Nigerian passport can be a straightforward process by following these steps and ensuring all requirements are met.
US Embassy says system glitch caused Nigerian visa delays, confirms normal operations
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that the United States Department of State recently attributed the challenges faced by Nigerian applicants in securing US visas to a partial system outage.
The explanation followed numerous complaints from Nigerian visa applicants, who reported issues such as missed interviews despite being scheduled for appointments, prompting concerns.