Travel

• Muna Tengi
• 6 Min Read
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How To Apply For A Nigerian Passport

A Nigerian passport is an essential document for every Nigerian citizen wishing to travel outside the country. It serves as an identification document and allows you access to international destinations. In recent years, the process of obtaining a Nigerian passport has undergone significant changes, with the introduction of online application portals and improved biometric processes. This guide will walk you through the various steps you need to take to apply for a Nigerian passport, either for the first time or for renewal.

Types of Nigerian Passports

Before diving into the application process, it’s important to know that there are different types of Nigerian passports based on the purpose of travel and the status of the applicant. These include:

1. Standard e-passport: The most common type of passport, valid for 5 years, and issued for regular travel such as tourism, business, or study abroad.

2. Official Passport: Issued to Nigerian government officials for official duties.

3. Diplomatic Passport: Issued to diplomats and government officials traveling for diplomatic missions.

4. Emergency Travel Certificate (ETC): Issued in emergency situations when a Nigerian passport is unavailable, and urgent travel is required.

5. Pilgrim Passport: Issued to those traveling for religious pilgrimages such as Hajj or Christian pilgrimages.

For the purpose of this blog, we’ll focus on how to apply for a Standard Nigerian e-passport, which is what most citizens will need for international travel.

Requirements for Applying for a Nigerian Passport

The following documents and information are required for your application:

• Proof of Nigerian citizenship: This could be a birth certificate, National Identity Card, or a letter of attestation from a Local Government Area.

• Two passport-sized photographs: These photos must meet the required standards for passport applications.

• Completed application form: The form can be filled out online.

• Payment slip: Proof of payment for the passport processing fee.

• Acknowledgment slip: Printed after successful submission of the online application.

• Guarantor’s form: A signed form by a guarantor who is either a civil servant or holds a valid Nigerian passport.

• Parental consent: For minors under 18 years of age, consent from both parents or legal guardians is required.

• Nigerian National Identity Number (NIN): The NIN is now mandatory for all passport applications, whether for renewal or first-time issuance.

Steps to Apply for a Nigerian Passport

Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for a Nigerian passport.

Step 1: Create an Account on the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) Portal

To begin, you must visit the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) official website: https://portal.immigration.gov.ng.

• On the homepage, click on the ‘Apply for Passport’ link.

• Choose between a Fresh Passport application or Passport Renewal.

• You will be required to create an account by providing your email address and setting a password. You will receive a confirmation email to validate your account.

Step 2: Fill Out the Application Form Online

Once your account is verified, you can proceed to fill out the passport application form. This form will ask for various personal details, such as:

• Full Name

• Date of Birth

• Place of Birth

• Gender

• National Identification Number (NIN)

• Marital Status

• Employment Information

• Residential Address

Ensure all information entered is accurate and matches your supporting documents. Double-check your email address, phone number, and other contact details as you will receive notifications on the progress of your application.

Step 3: Choose a Passport Processing Office

While filling the form, you’ll be prompted to select a passport office for biometric capturing and processing. It’s essential to choose a location that is convenient for you. The major passport processing offices are located in:

• Abuja (the Federal Capital Territory)

• Lagos (Ikeja and Ikoyi)

• Port Harcourt

• Kano

• Other state capitals

You will later schedule an appointment for biometric capture at your selected processing center.

Step 4: Make Payment for the Passport

After submitting your application form, you will be redirected to the payment gateway. The cost of a Nigerian passport varies depending on the type and the validity period. As of 2024, the official prices are:

• 32-page Passport (5 years validity): ₦25,000 for adults and ₦15,000 for minors.

• 64-page Passport (5 years validity): ₦35,000.

• 64-page Passport (10 years validity): ₦70,000.

Payments can be made online using a debit card (MasterCard, Visa, etc.). After payment, you should download and print both the acknowledgment slip and the payment receipt. You will need these documents during your appointment at the passport office.

Step 5: Schedule an Appointment for Biometric Capture

The next step is to schedule a date for your biometric data capture, which includes taking your fingerprints, digital photo, and signature. You will need to visit the passport office in person for this process. Ensure you bring along:

• Your acknowledgment slip

• Payment receipt

• Proof of citizenship (birth certificate or NIN slip)

• Guarantor’s form (if required)

• Any additional documentation for minors or special cases

On the day of your appointment, arrive early to avoid delays and ensure you meet all the necessary requirements. Biometric data capture typically takes a few minutes, but waiting times at passport offices can vary depending on the crowd.

Step 6: Collect Your Passport

After your biometric capture, the passport office will notify you when your passport is ready for collection. The processing time can vary but typically takes between two to six weeks. You will be notified by SMS or email once your passport is ready. Ensure to bring your acknowledgment slip and proof of identity when collecting your passport.

For those who may not be able to collect their passport in person, some centers allow collection by proxy, provided the authorized person has a letter of authorization and relevant documents.

Tips for a Smooth Passport Application Process

• Apply early: The passport application process can take time, so it’s always a good idea to apply well in advance of your planned travel dates.

• Ensure all documents are accurate: Discrepancies in your documents, such as differences in your name or birth date, could delay your application. Ensure all documents match the information in your form.

• Be prepared for possible delays: Processing times at some passport offices, especially in high-demand areas like Lagos and Abuja, may be slower due to high volume. Keep this in mind while planning your travel.

• Follow up: If your passport processing takes longer than the usual 2–6 weeks, follow up with the Nigeria Immigration Service via their official contact numbers or visit the passport office where you applied.

• Passport Renewal: If you are renewing your passport, ensure to begin the process well before your current passport expires. Many countries require that passports be valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I apply for a Nigerian passport outside Nigeria?

Yes, Nigerian passports can be applied for and renewed at Nigerian embassies or consulates around the world.

2. Is the Nigerian passport biometric?

Yes, the current Nigerian passport is a biometric e-passport, which includes a microchip containing the holder’s personal and biometric information.

3. Can I expedite the passport application process?

No official fast-track process exists, but in some cases, applicants may pay unofficial fees to expedite processing at certain offices, though this is discouraged.

4. How long is the Nigerian passport valid for?

The standard e-passport is valid for either 5 or 10 years, depending on the option chosen during the application.

5. Do children need passports?

Yes, all Nigerian citizens, including children, require a passport to travel internationally. Special consent from parents or legal guardians is required for minors.

Conclusion

Applying for a Nigerian passport is a straightforward process if you follow the steps outlined in this guide. Whether you are applying for a fresh passport or renewing an existing one, ensuring that all necessary documents are in place and completing the online forms accurately will help to speed up the process. Always apply well in advance of your travel plans to avoid any last-minute delays, and be aware of the fees and requirements to ensure a smooth application.