How to Apply for an International Passport in Nigeria

Kevin K

3 weeks ago

How to Apply for an International Passport in Nigeria

Last updated on February 18th, 2025 at 09:42 am

The Nigerian government launched an online passport application system in January 2024, making it easier than ever to apply for an international passport.

This system allows applicants to complete most of the process online, with only the biometric capture requiring a visit to an immigration office. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the application process, including the different types of passports available, requirements, fees, and processing times.

The Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) website offers a range of online services for citizens and foreign nationals, including passport applications, visa applications, and ECOWAS travel certificates.

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Types of Nigerian Passports

The NIS offers various passport types to cater to different needs:

Standard e-Passport: This is the most common type of passport for Nigerian citizens. It is valid for five years and has 32 pages.
64-page e-Passport: This passport has 64 pages and is suitable for frequent travelers. It is valid for five years.
64-page e-Passport with 10-year validity: This passport offers a longer validity period of 10 years and is suitable for adults aged 18 and above.
Official Passport: This passport is issued to government officials for official travel.
Seaman’s Book: This is a passport for seafarers.

Requirements for a Standard e-Passport

The requirements for a standard e-Passport vary depending on the applicant’s age and circumstance. Here’s a general overview:

National Identification Number (NIN): A valid NIN is mandatory for all passport applicants. It serves as a primary identifier during the application process.
Completed online application form: The form must be filled out online on the NIS website.
Passport photographs: Two recent passport-sized photos with a white background, with pixel dimensions of 600×800.
Acknowledgement Slip: Generated after successfully submitting the application online.
Payment Slip: Proof of payment for the passport application.
Guarantor’s form: This form must be sworn to before a commissioner of Oaths/Magistrate/High Court Judge. The guarantor must also attach a photocopy of their Nigerian passport data page, driving license, or National Identity Card.

For minors (under 18 years):

Birth Certificate: This can be obtained from the National Population Commission (NPC).
Parent’s letter of consent: For minors under 16 years.
Clean copy of parent’s passport data page.

For adults (18 years and above):

Letter of identification: This can be from your Local Government/State of origin or residence, or a National Identity Card.
Birth Certificate: A certificate issued by the National Population Commission is required for applicants born after December 1992.
Age Declaration: If you don’t have a birth certificate, you can submit an age declaration with one passport-sized photograph endorsed by a Commissioner for Oaths.
Marriage certificate: Where applicable.

For applicants with dual nationality:

You need to upload the data page of your non-Nigerian passport.

International Passport in Nigeria Application Process

The application process for a Nigerian international passport has been streamlined and can be completed mostly online. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Access the NIS Portal

Go to the official NIS website: https://portal.immigration.gov.ng. Register for an account or log in if you already have one.

Step 2: Complete 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 you fill in all the fields accurately.

Step 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. Print the payment slip and acknowledgment receipt after a successful transaction.

Step 4: Schedule a Biometric Capture Appointment

You will be required to choose a date for biometric capture at the nearest NIS office. Select a center close to you and pick an available time slot for your appointment.

Step 5: Confirmation

When 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.

Expedited Passport Processing

The NIS has introduced special centers for expedited passport processing.

These centers operate on a public-private partnership basis and aim to provide faster processing times for urgent travel needs.

More of these centers will be opened across the country to improve accessibility and convenience.

Renewing an Unexpired Passport

You may need to renew your passport before its expiration date due to various reasons, such as a change of name due to marriage or divorce, or to correct errors.

In such cases, you’ll need to follow a similar process to a standard renewal but provide additional documents like a marriage certificate, divorce documents, or a court order for a change of name.

Passport Fees

Passport fees vary depending on the age of the applicant, the type of passport booklet, and whether you are applying in Nigeria or from an embassy abroad.

Applying in Nigeria (Naira):

Booklet Type	Age 0 – 17	Age 18 – 59	Age 60+
32 Pages	8,750	15,000	8,750
64 Pages	20,000	35,000	20,000

Applying from Embassies, Consulates & High Commissions (US Dollar):

Booklet Type	Age 0 – 17	Age 18 – 59	Age 60+
32 Pages	65	94	65
64 Pages	125	125	125

Additional Fees:

A non-refundable administrative fee of N30,000 applies for changes to the passport data.
An additional fee applies for replacing a lost or stolen passport.

International Passport in Nigeria Processing Time

Passport applications can take up to 6 weeks to be processed for new applications and up to 3 weeks for renewals. You can expect to receive your passport within this timeframe after your biometric enrollment.

International Passport in Nigeria Application Centers

Passport applications can be submitted at various locations across Nigeria, including:

NIS Headquarters, Abuja: For Nigerian citizens by Naturalization, Registration, Adoption, and Surrogacy.
Passport offices/Embassies/High commissions: For standard passport applications.
State commands: To collect backlogged passports.

The NIS publishes a list of uncollected passports on its website. Applicants can check this list and visit the relevant state command to collect their passports.

Contacting the NIS

You can contact the NIS for inquiries and support through the following channels:

Email: info@nigeriaembassyusa.org or publiccomplaints@nigeriaembassyusa.org
Phone: (202) 800 7201 (Ext.100)

Common Misconceptions

There are some common misconceptions about the Nigerian passport application process:

You can apply for a passport without a NIN: This is false. A valid NIN is mandatory for all passport applications.
Passports are issued immediately on application: Passports are not issued on the same day you apply. Processing times vary depending on the service type.
Payments can be made at NIS offices: All payments for passport applications must be made online through the NIS website.
Express service means same-day processing: While express service shortens the waiting period, it still takes time for your passport to be processed.

Tips for a Smooth International Passport in Nigeria Application Process

Start your application early: Give yourself ample time to complete the process, especially if you have travel plans.
Ensure all your documents are valid and up-to-date.
Double-check all information before submitting your application.
Keep your payment and acknowledgment slips safe.
Arrive on time for your biometric capture appointment.

Conclusion

Applying for an international passport in Nigeria requires careful planning and attention to detail.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, ensuring you have all the necessary documents, and understanding the fees and processing times involved, you can navigate the application process successfully and obtain your passport without any hassle.

The online application system has made the process more convenient and efficient, but it’s still crucial to be prepared and follow the guidelines to avoid delays or complications.