Here’s a step by step guide for getting a Nigerian international passport (the e-passport). The steps are for first-time applicants; renewal is similar but you’ll use your existing details.
What you’ll need in general
- National Identification Number (NIN) or a way to obtain one via NIMC
- Valid ID (e.g., national ID card, driver’s license, voters card)
- Birth certificate or age declaration
- Proof of address
- Recent passport-style photo (or you’ll be asked to have biometrics captured at the center)
- Email address and phone number (for notifications)
- For minors: consent from both parents/guardians, child’s birth certificate, and the child’s ID if available
- The old passport if you’re renewing (for appropriate cases)
Steps to apply
1) Get your NIN and some IDs in order
- If you don’t have a NIN, apply for one with NIMC first. You’ll need the NIN during passport application.
- Make sure your IDs and documents are valid and readable.
2) Go to the official passport portal
- Use the Nigerian official passport site (the portal for application, payment, and appointment). Common domains are passports.gov.ng or immigration-related portals. Always use the official government site to avoid scams.
- Create an account (or log in if you already have one).
3) Start a new application
- Choose the passport type and the number of pages (32-page regular vs 64-page; some sites also show 48-page options). The 64-page book is commonly used by frequent travelers.
- Fill in personal details exactly as they appear on your IDs and NIN.
4) Upload documents
- Upload scanned copies of required documents (IDs, birth certificate or age declaration, proof of address, etc.).
- Upload or provide a recent passport photo according to the site’s specs. Some centers also offer on-site biometric capture.
5) Pay the fees
- The fee depends on page count and service speed (normal vs urgent). Check the current fees on the portal; there are separate charges for different page counts and delivery/processing options.
- After payment, print the payment receipt or invoice. You’ll need this for the next steps.
6) Book and attend biometric capture
- Schedule an appointment for biometric data capture at your chosen Passport Office or designated center.
- On the day, bring the originals of all documents you uploaded (for verification) and the appointment slip.
- At the center, you’ll have your fingerprints, photo, and signature captured.
7) Track processing and collect
- After biometrics, your passport goes through processing. You’ll be notified (usually by email/SMS) when it’s ready.
- Go to the same or a designated collection center to pick up your passport. Bring your ID and the collection slip or appointment confirmation.
8) For special cases
- Renewal: Use your existing passport details; you’ll likely need the old passport and updated documents if any name/address changes.
- For minors: ensure parental consent and all required documents for the child are provided. You may need to bring both parents to the appointment or provide a notarized consent if one parent cannot be present, per the portal’s rules.
Tips and reminders
- Always apply via the official portal to avoid scams and delays.
- Ensure names, spellings, and dates of birth exactly match your IDs and NIN.
- Processing times vary by location and service level; normal processing takes longer than expedited services if available.
- Have ready all originals for verification; copies are usually uploaded during the online step.
- If you’re outside Nigeria, you can typically apply via a Nigerian embassy/consulate and then complete steps in-country or via the embassy’s process.
Would you like me to pull the exact current steps and fees for your area or provide direct links to the official portal? Also, tell me if you’re applying for a first-time passport, renewal, or for a minor, and I can tailor the checklist.
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