How to Obtain an International Passport in Nigeria in 2024
Obtaining an international passport is an essential step for any Nigerian planning to travel abroad. In 2024, the process is straightforward but requires careful attention to detail. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you understand the requirements and steps involved in getting your international passport in Nigeria.
Types of Nigerian Passports
Before stating the requirements, it’s important to know that there are different types of passports available:
- Standard Passport: For general travel purposes, available in 32-page and 64-page booklets.
- Official Passport: For government officials on duty travel.
- Diplomatic Passport: For diplomats and their families. (Diplomatic passports are primarily granted to Foreign Service Officers)
- Emergency Travel Certificate (ETC): For Nigerians in distress abroad, facilitating their return to Nigeria.
This guide focuses on obtaining a standard passport as 90% of passports people obtains are standard.
Requirements for a Standard Nigerian Passport.
below are all the major requirements for obtaining standard Nigeria passport.
1. Age-Specific Requirements:
- Adults (18 years and above):
- Completed Passport Application Form: Obtainable online or at any Nigeria Immigration Service office
- Acknowledgment Slip and Payment Receipt: Printed after online payment, you can equally make a transfer and shown the evidence of payment receipt
- National Identity Number (NIN): Mandatory for passport issuance.
- Birth Certificate or Declaration of Age: A certified copy is required.
- Local Government Area (LGA) Letter of Identification: Must be signed by the chairman of the LGA or a recognized chief.
- Guarantor’s Form: Completed and notarized, with a passport photograph of the guarantor.
- Recent Passport Photographs: At least four colored passport-sized photos with white background.
- Profession Certificate: For professionals, evidence of profession such as a work ID card or letter of employment.
- Minors (Under 18 years):
- Completed Passport Application Form: Obtainable online.
- Acknowledgment Slip and Payment Receipt: Printed after online payment.
- Birth Certificate: A certified copy.
- Consent Letter: From both parents or legal guardians.
- Identification Documents of Parents: National ID cards or international passports.
- Recent Passport Photographs: At least four colored passport-sized photos with white background.
2. Online Application Process (optional):
- Visit the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) Website: Start by visiting the official NIS portal (https://portal.immigration.gov.ng/).
- Fill Out the Application Form: Complete the form accurately, ensuring all details match your supporting documents.
- Make Payment: Pay the applicable fee online. The fee varies based on the passport type and number of pages.
- Print the Acknowledgment Slip and Payment Receipt: These documents are crucial for the next steps.
if you can not apply for the passport, you can also visit any immigration office in your state. it is always less stressful if you applied offline as you will get to interact will real immigration officers who will be helping you to fill out the form and others
3. Document Submission and Biometric Capture:
- Visit the Nearest Passport Office (Nigeria Immigration Service office): Bring all required documents, including the acknowledgment slip and payment receipt.
- Document Verification: An immigration officer will verify your documents.
- Biometric Capture: Your fingerprints, photograph, and signature will be taken.
4. Collection:
- Processing Time: Typically ranges from a few days to several weeks, depending on the office and any additional verification required, however, it is always less than one month
- Notification: You will be notified when your passport is ready for collection either by tracking it online via Nigeria Immigration Service portal or by a call from officer.
- Collect in Person: Visit the passport office to collect your passport. Ensure you bring your acknowledgment slip and any other requested documents.
Additional Tips
- Ensure All Documents Are Original and Up-to-Date: Any discrepancies can delay the process.
- Double-Check Application Details: Mistakes can lead to rejection or delays.
- Stay Informed: Keep an eye on announcements from the Nigeria Immigration Service for any changes in the process or requirements.
Conclusion
Securing an international passport in Nigeria in 2024 requires careful preparation and adherence to the outlined steps. By ensuring all your documents are in order and following the correct procedures, you can obtain your passport with minimal hassle. Whether for travel, study, or work abroad, having a valid passport is your first step towards new opportunities and adventures