Applying for an international passport in Nigeria has become more accessible and more convenient with the introduction of online application processes by the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS).
This online method allows Nigerian citizens to apply for and obtain their passports without extensive paperwork and long waiting times.
Applicants can complete the entire process from their homes by following simple steps.
This guide will outline the steps needed to apply for and get an international passport online in Nigeria.
Following these steps can save time and streamline the passport application process. Let’s dive in and explore the process in detail;
Table of contents
How to Apply for Internation Passport Online
Here are the practical steps to apply for and get an international passport online in Nigeria;
- Create an Account
- Select Passport Type
- Fill Out the Application Form
- Upload Required Documents
- Make the Payment
Create an Account
To begin the application process, visit the official website of the Nigerian Immigration Service at https://immigration.gov.ng/.
This website serves as the central platform for online passport applications. Before the application of getting an international passport online, an account must be created on this website.
While creating this account, click on the account creation section. You are expected to provide the necessary personal information to get a username and password to ensure your access or logging into the NIS website.
Select Passport Type
Applicants can select the appropriate type (Standard or Official) when applying for an international passport in Nigeria based on their travel needs and eligibility.
There are two types of e-passports provided by the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS): the Standard and the Official.
These passports are classified based on the number of pages and the intended purpose of travel.
- A standard e-passport (32 pages): The Standard e-passport is typically issued to Nigerian citizens who do not frequently travel abroad. It is suitable for individuals who have occasional international travel needs, such as for tourism or personal reasons. It’s important to note that the Standard e-passport has a green cover.
- An official e-passport (64 pages): The Official e-passport is primarily reserved for Nigerian diplomats and government officials who require frequent international travel. It is also available for individuals, such as business professionals, who travel extensively for work and need a larger passport to accommodate multiple visas and entry/exit stamps. The Official e-passport has a blue cover.
The distinction between the two passport types allows for efficient processing and helps ensure that individuals receive the appropriate passport based on their travel requirements and official status.
Fill Out the Application Form
Fill in the required information on the online application form. This application form requires individual information such as:
Personal Information:
- Full name (Surname, First Name, Middle Name)
- Gender
- Date of birth
- Place of birth
- Nationality
- Marital status
- Maiden name (if applicable)
- Occupation
- Address
Contact Information:
- Email address
- Phone number
- Residential address
Passport Details:
- Type of passport (e.g., Standard, Official)
- Number of pages (32 or 64)
- Previous passport details (if applicable)
Emergency Contact:
- Name of emergency contact
- Relationship with the applicant
- Contact address and phone number of emergency contact
- Next of Kin
- Name of next of kin
- Relationship with the applicant
- Contact address and phone number of next of kin
Guarantor Information:
- Name of guarantor
- Occupation of guarantor
- Residential address and phone number of the guarantor
Upload Required Documents
When applying for a passport online in Nigeria, you must prepare and upload the necessary supporting documents to the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) website.
These documents typically include the following:
- Birth certificate
- Local government identification
- Payment receipt
Meanwhile, some other documents are required for the application online and offline. Note that these documents depend on the type of international passport you are applying for.
These documents include the following:
Standard Passport Requirements
- Proof of identity from your local government: This can be a valid national identification document such as a National ID card, Voter’s card, or Driver’s license.
- Proof of age or birth certificate: You must provide a document that verifies your age, such as a birth certificate or age declaration.
- A pair of passport-sized colour photos: Two recent passport-sized colour photographs taken within the last two months are required. These photos should meet the specified size, background, and appearance requirements.
- A formal oath from a guarantor: A formal oath must be taken by a guarantor in the presence of a commissioner of oaths, a magistrate, or a High Court Judge. The guarantor’s information and signature will be included in the application form.
- Letter of permission for underage students: If you are an underage student applying for a passport, you will need a signed letter of authorisation from your parents or legal guardians.
- Legal proof of marriage (if applicable): If you are married and wish to include your spouse’s name in your passport, you must provide legal proof of your wedding, such as a marriage certificate.
- Police report (in case of lost or stolen passport): If your previous passport was lost or stolen, you must provide a police report as part of the application process.
Official Passport Requirements
- Letter of introduction: You will need a letter of introduction from the relevant State Government or Federal Government Ministry/Organization that specifies the need for an official passport.
- Legal proof of marriage (if applicable): Similar to the standard passport requirements, if you are married and want to include your spouse’s name in the passport, you will need to provide legal proof of your marriage.
- Police report (in case of lost or stolen passport): If your official passport is lost or stolen, you must provide a police report as part of the application process.
- Copy of appointment letter or letter of promotion: A copy of your appointment letter or a letter of promotion from your last or latest employer is required to support your application for an official passport.
Make the Payment
The fee varies depending on the type of international passport an individual is applying for.
Here is the list of the current prices on the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) website:
Standard e-passport booklet (32 pages):
- Minor (0 to 17 years old): ₦8,750
- Adult (18 to 59 years old): ₦15,000
- Senior (60 and above): ₦8,750
Official e-passport booklet (64 pages):
- Minor (0 to 17 years old): ₦20,000
- Adult (18 to 59 years old): ₦20,000
- Senior (60 and above): ₦20,000
Ensure to visit the official NIS website to get updated on the fees list.
Booking of Appointment for Image Capturing and Biometrics
After successfully paying for your Nigerian passport application, book an appointment at your chosen passport office for the biometric data capture process.
Select a convenient date and time slot on the NIS website. On the appointed date, visit the passport office with the required documents: application printout, original supporting documents, and payment receipt.
Arrive on time and be prepared for the biometric data capture, which includes fingerprinting, photographing, and signing.
Follow the instructions given by the NIS staff and submit your documents.
Track Your Passport Application
After the biometric data capture process, you will receive a tracking ID or number.
This tracking ID allows you to monitor the progress of your passport application on the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) website.
Regularly checking for updates and notifications regarding your application status is essential.
When your passport is ready for collection, the NIS will notify you. You will receive a notification, which could be through email or SMS.
The report will provide information on where to collect your passport.
Collection of Passport
Visit the passport office indicated in the notification, bringing your tracking ID, original documents, and payment receipt.
At the passport office, present your tracking ID, original supporting documents, and payment receipt to collect your passport.
The NIS staff will verify your information and hand over your passport to you.
Ensure you have all the necessary documents and follow any additional instructions in the notification for a smooth passport collection process.
Conclusion
Applying and obtaining an international passport online in Nigeria has become more accessible and streamlined with implementation of the Nigerian Immigration Service’s online application system.
By following the outlined steps, Nigerian citizens can conveniently complete the application process, submit the necessary documents, make payments online, and track the progress of their passport applications.
It is crucial to regularly check the official NIS website for any updates or changes to the application process.
Let me know if you have any questions or need further clarification. I would love to assist you.
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