How to Apply for a Nigerian Passport Online: A Cost-Saving Guide

Applying for Your Nigerian Passport Online: An Easy, Affordable Guide

Key Points:

1. Online application for a Nigerian passport can save you money by eliminating agent fees.
2. The Nigerian Immigration Service portal offers a straightforward application process.
3. Required documents, procedures, and guidelines are detailed in the online application portal.

With the world constantly evolving and opportunities opening up in different countries, having a passport becomes an essential part of global mobility. However, obtaining a Nigerian passport can be costly and challenging, especially if you engage agents.

Unbeknownst to many, the process can be simple and cost-effective when done online. This article walks you through the process of applying for your Nigerian passport online using the Nigeria Immigration Service portal.

The Importance of a Nigerian Passport

The Nigerian passport is your gateway to the world. Without it, your international travels would be considerably hindered, and you may find yourself stuck at home more often than not. Unfortunately, many are deterred by the usually high cost of obtaining a passport through agents, unaware that they could easily apply online and save themselves a substantial sum.

The following guide will demonstrate how I managed to get my Nigerian passport for under N30,000, whereas agents would charge between N50,000 and N60,000.

Also Read: Requirements for International Passport in Nigeria 2023

Step-by-Step Guide to Apply Online for a Nigerian Passport

Step 1: Initiating the Application

Start your passport application on the Nigeria Immigration passport application portal. Choose “START NEW APPLICATION”.

You’ll be asked to choose your passport type (standard), age group, processing state, processing centre, passport booklet type, and validity period. Here are the passport types available:

• 32 Pages, 5 years validity: The basic Nigerian passport type, with 32 pages and a 5-year validity. It costs N25,000 plus a N1,000 processing fee.
• 64 Pages, 5 years validity: A passport with 64 pages, valid for 5 years. It costs N35,000 plus a N1,000 processing fee.
• 64 Pages, 10 years validity: The premium standard passport, featuring 64 pages and a 10-year validity. It costs N70,000.

Step 2: Personal Details

Here, you provide personal details such as name, date of birth, place of birth, and National Identification Number (NIN). It’s crucial to enter these details precisely as they appear on your NIN to prevent discrepancies and potential delays.

Step 3: Contact Details

This section requires your contact details such as home town, state of origin, phone numbers, and permanent address in Nigeria.

Step 4: Next of Kin Information

Provide details about your next of kin, your relationship with them, and their contact details.

Step 5: Payment and Document Upload

This is the payment stage. After successful payment, you will receive a receipt, which you should print, along with your completed application form, Appointment Slip, and Passport Guarantor’s Form.

You also need to choose a capturing centre and date for your biometric data capture.

Note: Please adhere to your assigned date; any deviation may result in delays.

Read Also: 

Nigeria to Begin Home Delivery of Passports: Making It Convenient for Nigerians

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Guarantor’s Form

Applying for a passport requires a guarantor. Your guarantor must hold a valid Nigerian passport and should fill out the Passport Guarantor’s Form for you. This form, along with a passport photo of the guarantor, must be sworn to by a Commissioner for Oaths, usually found at any court or local government council building. There might be a small fee involved, often inflated by agents to make a profit.

Document Capture

Visit the capturing centre on your assigned date with the following:

• Appointment Slip
• Photocopies of NIN
• Photocopies of Letters of Identification
• Printed application form
• Two passport-sized photos signed by the guarantor
• Completed Guarantor’s Form
• Birth certificate or age declaration
• Payment receipt
• White file (may be bought at the centre)

After the capture, you receive a confirmation slip with your collection date.

In conclusion, acquiring a Nigerian passport doesn’t have to be overly expensive. By applying online, you can save yourself a significant amount of money typically spent on agent fees. It’s straightforward, more affordable, and quite easy to navigate, making it an option worth considering