How to Apply for International Passport: A Guide for Nigerians

Obtaining a Nigerian international passport is essential for citizens planning to travel abroad. This guide provides detailed instructions on how to apply for an international passport, incorporating recent changes to the application process, understanding the different types of passports available, processing times, and the locations where applications can be submitted.​

Understanding the Types of Nigerian International Passports

The Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) issues various types of passports to cater to different needs:​

• Standard Passport: This is the most common passport issued to Nigerian citizens for regular travel purposes.​

• Official Passport: Issued to government officials traveling on official business.​

• Diplomatic Passport: Reserved for Nigerian diplomats and their families.​

Recent Changes to the Nigerian International Passport System

The NIS has implemented several reforms to enhance the passport application process:​

• Contactless Biometric Applications: For Nigerians residing in Canada and Europe, the NIS has introduced a contactless passport renewal system, allowing eligible applicants to renew their passports online without visiting a physical office.​

• Automation of Visa Processes: To promote travel and business, Nigeria plans to automate its short-stay visa approval and issuance process, enabling travelers to apply online and receive approvals within 24 to 48 hours.

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Steps to Apply for a Nigerian International Passport

Follow these steps to apply for a Nigerian international passport:​

• Step 1: Complete the Online Application Form

Visit the NIS Passport Application Portal and fill out the online application form. Ensure all information is accurate and complete.​

• Step 2: Make Payment

After completing the form, proceed to the payment section. The fees vary based on the passport type and applicant’s age:​

• 32 Pages (5-Year Validity):

  • Ages 0 – 17: $65

  • Ages 18 – 59: $94

  • Ages 60 and above: $65

• 64 Pages:

  • 5-Year Validity: $125

  • 10-Year Validity (Ages 18 and above): $230

Payments can be made online using a credit or debit card.

• Step 3: Schedule an Appointment for Biometric Capture

After payment, schedule an appointment for biometric data capture at the nearest NIS office or Nigerian embassy/consulate if abroad.​

• Step 4: Attend the Appointment

  On the scheduled date, attend the appointment with the following documents:​

  • For Adults:

    • Printed application form

    • Payment confirmation slip

    • Acknowledgement slip

    • National Identification Number (NIN)

    • Existing passport (for renewals)

  • For Minors:

    • Birth certificate

    • Parents’ consent letters

    • Copies of parents’ passports

  Biometric data, including fingerprints and photographs, will be captured during the appointment.​

Processing Times and Waiting Periods

The processing time for a Nigerian international passport varies:​

• Within Nigeria: Typically, it takes about 6 weeks from the date of biometric capture.​

• Outside Nigeria: Processing times can extend up to 10 weeks, depending on the embassy or consulate.​

Applicants are advised to apply well in advance of their intended travel dates to accommodate any unforeseen delays.

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Passport Application Locations

Applicants can submit their applications at designated locations:​

• Within Nigeria: NIS offices are located in all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.​

• Outside Nigeria: Nigerian embassies and consulates worldwide process passport applications.​

  • United Kingdom:

    • London: Nigerian High Commission, 9 Northumberland Avenue, London WC2N 5BX.

  • Canada:

    • Ottawa: Nigerian High Commission, 295 Metcalfe Street, Ottawa, Ontario K2P 1R9.

    • Toronto: Nigerian Consulate General, 60 St. Clair Avenue East, Suite 1004, Toronto, Ontario M4T 1N5.

  • United States:

    • Washington, D.C.: Embassy of Nigeria, 3519 International Court NW, Washington, D.C. 20008.

    • New York: Consulate General of Nigeria, 828 Second Avenue, New York, NY 10017.

    • Atlanta: Consulate General of Nigeria, 8060 Roswell Road, Atlanta, GA 30350.

  • Germany:

    • Berlin: Embassy of Nigeria, Neue Jakobstraße 4, 10179 Berlin.

    • Frankfurt: Consulate General of Nigeria, Friedrich-Ebert-Anlage 27, 60325 Frankfurt am Main.

Additional Considerations

• National Identification Number (NIN): Possessing a NIN is mandatory for all passport applications. Ensure that the information on your NIN matches your passport details to avoid processing delays.​

• Lost or Stolen Passports: In the event of a lost or stolen passport, promptly report the incident to the local police to obtain a police report. Additionally, submit a handwritten application requesting a reissue due to the loss. Approval for reissuance is granted by the Immigration Headquarters in Abuja.

• Change of Personal Information: If you need to change personal details such as name or date of birth, provide a handwritten application requesting the change, along with all supporting documents related to the new data. Approval for such changes is also granted by the Immigration Headquarters in Abuja.

• Emergency Travel Certificate (ETC): In cases where immediate travel is necessary, and the passport cannot be promptly replaced, Nigerians abroad may apply for an Emergency Travel Certificate. This document allows a one-way trip back to Nigeria and must be surrendered to immigration officials upon arrival. Requirements include a passport photograph, a copy of the expired or lost/stolen passport, a police report (if applicable), and a designated fee. 

Ensuring all required documents are accurately prepared and submitted can facilitate a smoother application experience. For Nigerians residing abroad, contacting the nearest Nigerian embassy or consulate is essential for guidance tailored to the specific country’s procedures. Staying informed about recent changes and requirements is crucial for a successful application process.