Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Nigerian Passport

The Nigerian international passport is an official travel document issued by the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS). It serves as both an identity document and a requirement for traveling outside Nigeria.

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

---

📌 Step 1: Decide the Type of Passport You Need

Nigeria currently issues electronic passports (e-passports) in two main categories:

• Standard Passport (Green cover): For regular citizens.
• Official Passport (Blue cover): For government officials.

For most people, the standard passport applies.

You can also choose between:

• 32-page passport (₦25,000 approx.)
• 64-page passport (₦35,000–₦70,000 approx., for frequent travelers)

---

📌 Step 2: Apply Online

• Visit the official Nigeria Immigration Service portal: https://passport.immigration.gov.ng
• Fill out the passport application form with accurate details.
• Choose the passport type (Standard, 32-page or 64-page, 5-year or 10-year validity).
• Print out the completed form and payment confirmation slip.

---

📌 Step 3: Make Payment

• Payment is made online via the portal (Remita, cards, or online banking).
• Fees vary based on passport type, validity period, and number of pages.
• Print your payment receipt.

---

📌 Step 4: Book an Appointment

• Select the Immigration Office closest to you (in Nigeria or abroad via embassies/consulates).
• Schedule a biometric capture appointment.

---

📌 Step 5: Gather Required Documents

Bring the following to your appointment:

• Printed application form & payment receipt
• Birth certificate or Age declaration
• Local Government/State of Origin certificate
• National Identification Number (NIN)
• Two recent passport-sized photographs
• Old passport (if you are renewing)

---

📌 Step 6: Biometric Capture at Immigration Office

• Go to the Nigeria Immigration Service office on your appointment day.
• Present your documents for verification.
• Fingerprints, photograph, and signature will be captured.

---

📌 Step 7: Interview (if required)

• In some cases, applicants may undergo a short interview to confirm details.
• Officials may ask about travel purpose or documents submitted.

---

📌 Step 8: Wait for Processing

• Processing time can take from 3 to 6 weeks (sometimes longer depending on demand).
• Express processing may be available at an extra cost.

---

📌 Step 9: Collect Your Passport

• You will be notified when your passport is ready.
• Return to the immigration office with your receipt and ID to collect it.
• Always check that your personal details are correct before leaving.

---

✅ Final Tips

• Apply early if you plan to travel soon — delays are common.
• Only use the official NIS website — avoid “agents” who overcharge or provide fake documents.
• Keep your passport safe — replacing a lost passport requires a police report and affidavit.
• Passports are valid for 5 or 10 years depending on what you applied for.