How to Apply for Nigeria’s New Contactless Passport Renewal System

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has introduced a contactless passport renewal system to simplify the application process for Nigerians. The system allows applicants to renew their passports online without visiting NIS offices.

The phased rollout began on November 1, 2024 in Canada and expanded to the UK, US and Italy on November 15. It will be available in Nigeria and other countries by December 1, easing challenges such as travel costs and time constraints for Nigerians in the diaspora, as well as improving the efficiency of passport services worldwide.

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Steps to Apply for Contactless Passport Renewal

Candidates can access the new system through the NIS web portal or mobile application available on Google Play, App Store and Windows Store. The process looks like this:

1. Download the application or visit the portal.

Open the NIS mobile app or visit the official portal www.passport.immigration.gov.ng.

2. Create a profile

Register using a valid email address to begin the application process.

3. Complete Compliance Check

Take a quick test to determine if your passport is eligible for renewal.

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4. Provide personal information.

Enter your National Identification Number (NIN) and current passport number for verification.

5. Submit personal information

Fill in your biodata and upload required documents such as:

NIN miss
Birth certificate
Local Authority Certificate

6. Collection of biometric data

Use your mobile device to record fingerprint biometrics.

7. Review and Submit

Please ensure all information entered is correct before final submission.

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8. Make payment

Complete the required payment online to complete your application.

9. Wait for processing and delivery.

Once submitted, your application will be processed and the renewed passport will be delivered to the specified address.

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Requirements for a fresh passport

For those applying for a new passport, the following documents are required:

For adults:

Identification letter from local government or state of origin
Valid employee ID (for government employees)
Completed passport application form
Marriage Certificate (if applicable)
Birth certificate issued by the National Population Commission (for those born after December 1992)
Payment receipt and confirmation of payment

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For minors:

Completed application form and passport size photograph.
Birth certificate issued by the National Population Commission
Evidence of parents’ Nigerian citizenship
Letter of consent from parent or guardian
Payment receipt and confirmation of payment

For adopted children:

Court Order and Letter of Permission from Ministry of Women and Child Development

The contactless passport renewal system uses technologies including biometric databases and facial recognition to verify identity. This service is available to applicants aged 18 years or older with existing biometric records. First-time applicants must visit NIS offices for an interview and biometric data collection.