The Requirements for Obtaining an International Passport in Nigeria

Introduction

An international passport, also known as a passport book, is an official travel document issued by a government to its citizens for international travel.

It contains the owner’s personal information, including his name, photograph, date of birth, and signature, as well as information about his nationality and nationality.

It also contains a unique identification number and information about the country of the issue.

An international passport is essential for cross-border travel because it acts as an identity and allows the passport holder to enter and leave foreign countries.

Why an international passport is necessary

An international passport is necessary for several reasons.

First, it acts as an ID when traveling abroad, proving the nationality and identity of the owner.

Second, immigration officials require it as a condition of entry into a foreign country, and without it, you may be admitted or even deported.

Third, an international passport allows its holder to travel freely across international borders, providing a level of mobility and freedom that would not otherwise be possible.

Finally, an international passport can also be an important document when applying for a visa, as many countries require a valid passport to obtain a visa.

All in all, an international passport is a necessary document for anyone who wants to travel outside their home country.

Overview of the process of obtaining an international passport in Nigeria

Obtaining an international passport in Nigeria involves several steps.

Firstly, the applicant must ensure that they meet the eligibility criteria, including being a Nigerian citizen, meeting the age requirements, and possessing the necessary identification documents and proof of address.

The applicant must then obtain relevant supporting documents, including a birth certificate or age declaration, LGA certificate of origin, National Identification Number (NIN), and driver’s license or national identity card.

Once the applicant has collected all the necessary documents, they can start the application process online.

This means filling out the passport application form, paying the application fee, and making an appointment for biometric data collection.

The applicant then attends an appointment where their biometrics, including fingerprints and a digital photograph, are recorded.

Once the biometric data is collected, the applicant’s request will be processed and they will be notified when the passport is ready for collection.

The passport applicant or his authorized representative can collect the passport in person from the passport office.

It is important to note that obtaining an international passport in Nigeria can take several weeks or even months depending on the number of applications processed.

Applicants are therefore advised to submit their application well in advance of their intended travel date to avoid any possible delays or complications.

Eligibility Requirements for Obtaining an International Passport in Nigeria

On this subtopic, we are going to look at what are the requirements you must meet, for you to be eligible to obtain an international passport in Nigeria:

• A. Nigerian Citizenship
• B. Age Requirement
• C. Identification Documents
• D. Proof of Address
• E. Passport Application Form
• F. Passport Application Fee

Nigerian Citizenship

To obtain an international passport in Nigeria, the applicant must be a citizen of Nigeria.

This means that the applicant must have been born in Nigeria, have at least one Nigerian parent, or acquire Nigerian citizenship through naturalization or registration.

Proof of Nigerian citizenship is required when applying for an international passport, which is usually a birth certificate, national identity card, or citizenship certificate.

If the applicant was born outside Nigeria, additional documents such as a parent’s Nigerian passport or proof of Nigerian citizenship by descent may be required.

It is important to note that dual citizenship is not recognized in Nigeria and Nigerian citizens who hold citizenship of another country may have to renounce their foreign citizenship before obtaining an international passport.

Age Requirement

To obtain an international passport in Nigeria, an applicant must meet certain age requirements.

In general, adult passport applicants must be at least 18 years old. However, those under the age of 18 can get a passport but must have the consent of their parents or legal guardians.

In the case of minors, the letter of consent from both parents or legal guardians, as well as the minor’s birth certificate or age statement must be attached to the application.

In addition, parents or legal guardians must provide proof of their identity and nationality, such as their international passport or national identity card.

It is important to note that the requirements to obtain an international passport in Nigeria may vary according to the circumstances of the applicant.

For example, if the applicant is a ward of the state or adopted, additional documents may be required to prove the receipt of an international passport.

Identification Documents

When applying for an international passport in Nigeria, the applicant must provide certain identification documents as proof of their identity and citizenship. These documents may include:

1. Birth certificate or declaration of age: This is used to verify the applicant’s age and citizenship.
2. National Identification Number (NIN): The NIN is a unique number assigned to Nigerian citizens by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC). It serves as a means of identification and is required for many government services, including the application for an international passport.
3. Driver’s license or National Identity Card: These are also acceptable forms of identification and may be used in place of the NIN.
4. Certificate of Local Government Area (LGA) of Origin: This is a document issued by the applicant’s local government area of origin and is used to verify their identity and citizenship.

In addition to the above documents, the applicant may also be required to provide additional documentation depending on their circumstances. For example, if the applicant is married, they may be required to provide their marriage certificate as proof of their marital status. If the applicant has changed their name, they may be required to provide a deed poll or other legal documentation to support their name change.

Proof of Address

When applying for an international passport in Nigeria, the applicant must provide proof of their current address. This is important as it helps to verify the applicant’s identity and ensures that the passport is delivered to the correct address.

Acceptable forms of proof of address may include:

• Utility bills: This may include bills for electricity, water, or gas, and must be in the name of the applicant.
• Tenancy agreement: This is a legal document that establishes the applicant’s tenancy or occupancy of a property.
• Bank statement: This can be used to verify the applicant’s address if it includes their name and address.
• Letter from employer: This may be used if the applicant is employed and the letter confirms their address.
• Voter’s card: This is a valid form of identification and can also serve as proof of address.

It is important to note that the proof of address provided must be current and valid. It must also match the address provided by the applicant on the passport application form.

Passport Application Form

To apply for an international passport in Nigeria, the applicant must fill out a passport application form.

The form can be obtained online from the Nigerian Immigration Service website or any passport application center.

In the application form, the applicant must provide personal data, such as full name, date and place of birth, gender, and marital status.

In addition, the applicant must provide their contact information, including their current address and telephone number.

The applicant must also provide information about their parents or legal guardians, including their full name, date and place of birth, and nationality.

In the application form, the applicant must also provide information about their previous international travel history and previous passports.

In addition, the applicant must submit a recent passport photo that meets the above requirements.

The photograph must be taken on a white background and must show the applicant’s full face and both ears.

It is important that the application form is filled in accurately and truthfully, as false or misleading information may result in the application being rejected or the passport being canceled.

Passport Application Fee

To obtain an international passport in Nigeria, the applicant must pay a passport application fee. The fee varies depending on the type of passport and the duration of validity.

As of April 2023, the fees for Nigerian international passports are as follows:

1. 32-page passport with a validity of 5 years: N25,750
2. 64-page passport with a validity of 5 years: N35,750
3. 64-page passport with a validity of 10 years: N70,000

The fees can be paid online through the Nigerian Immigration Service website or at any designated bank.

It is important to note that the application fee is non-refundable and must be paid in full at the time of application.

The applicant must also provide proof of payment when submitting their application. You can read about Nigerian Passport Renewal Fees: Everything Here.

Supporting Documents Required for Obtaining an International Passport in Nigeria

Here are a few documents that you must go to the immigration office to obtain an international passport in Nigeria.

• Birth Certificate or Declaration of Age
• Certificate of LGA of Origin
• National Identification Number (NIN)
• Driver’s License or National Identity Card
• Utility Bills or Bank Statements

Birth Certificate or Declaration of Age

When applying for an international passport in Nigeria, the applicant must provide a birth certificate or declaration of age as proof of age and citizenship.

A birth certificate is an official document that contains information about a person’s birth, including their name, date, place of birth, parent’s names, and other relevant information.

It is issued by the National Population Commission or the hospital where the birth took place.

A statement of age, on the other hand, is a legal document that proves a person’s age when a birth certificate is not available.

It is issued by the court and contains information about the person’s age as declared by him or his guardian.

Both the birth certificate and the age declaration are acceptable proofs of age and citizenship when applying for an international passport in Nigeria.

It is important that the document submitted is valid and up-to-date, as any discrepancies or errors may result in the passport application being rejected.

Certificate of LGA of Origin

When applying for an international passport in Nigeria, the applicant must submit a Local Government Certificate of Origin (LGA).

This is a document that proves the origin of the applicant’s local authority in Nigeria.

It is given by the municipality where the applicant was born or where he has lived for at least five years.

The original LGA certificate contains information such as the applicant’s full name, date of birth, gender, and LGA title of origin.

This is an important document that helps verify the identity of the applicant and ensures that the passport is issued to the correct person.

It is important to note that an LGA Certificate of Origin must be obtained before applying for an international passport in Nigeria.

Without it, the passport application may be rejected.

National Identification Number (NIN)

From April 2023, all international passport applicants in Nigeria will be required to declare their National Identification Number (NIN).

NIN is a unique identification number issued by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) to citizens and legal residents of Nigeria.

This is an 11-digit number used to verify a person’s identity and is linked to their biometric data, such as fingerprints and facial recognition.

To get a NIN, the applicant must visit the NIMC registration center and submit their personal details such as full name, date of birth, and address.

They must also provide a valid identification document such as a birth certificate or a valid international passport to prove their identity.

Once the applicant’s details are verified, they will be registered in the NIMC database and issued to NIN.

This number is required when applying for an international passport in Nigeria as it helps to verify the identity of the applicant and ensure that the passport is issued to the correct person.

It is important to note that the NIN registration process can take several weeks, so applicants are advised to obtain a NIN number well in advance of applying for an international passport.

Driver’s License or National Identity Card

When applying for an international passport in Nigeria, the applicant must provide either a driver’s license or a national identification card as other identification.

A driver’s license is a document issued by the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) that authorizes the holder to drive a motor vehicle on Nigerian roads.

It contains information such as the driver’s full name, date of birth, and photo and is a valid form of identification.

A National Identity Card, on the other hand, is a physical card that contains the holder’s National Identification Number (NIN) and other biometric data.

It is issued by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) and is a valid means of identification.

Any of these documents can be used as a second means of identification when applying for an international passport in Nigeria.

It is important to note that the submitted document must be valid and up-to-date and correspond to the information provided in the passport application form.

Utility Bills or Bank Statements

When applying for an international passport in Nigeria, the applicant must provide a utility bill or bank statement as proof of their current address.

An electricity bill is a document that proves payment for essential services such as electricity, water, or internet.

It contains the name, address, and account number of the applicant and must be dated within the last three months.

A bank statement, on the other hand, is a document issued by the bank that shows the applicant’s account details and recent transactions.

It also includes the name and address of the applicant and must be dated within the last three months.

Any of these documents can be used as proof of the applicant’s current address when applying for an international passport in Nigeria.

It is important to note that the submitted document must be valid and up-to-date and correspond to the information provided in the passport application form.

Steps Involved in Obtaining an International Passport in Nigeria

Follow the steps below, to obtain your International Passport in Nigeria with ease.

• Online Application Process
• Payment of Application Fees
• Biometric Data Capture
• Collection of Passport

Online Application Process

The online application process for an international passport in Nigeria involves the following steps:

1. Visit the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) website at www.immigration.gov.ng.
2. Click on the e-passport tab and select the passport type (standard or official).
3. Select the processing country and location where you wish to pick up the passport.
4. Fill out the application form online with accurate information.
5. Upload a recent passport photograph with a white or off-white background, taken in full-face view with both eyes open.
6. Submit the completed application form and wait for a reference number to be generated.
7. Print out the payment confirmation page, which contains the applicant’s payment ID number and payment reference number.
8. Proceed to the bank and make payment for the passport fee using the payment ID number.
9. Return to the NIS website and enter the payment reference number to confirm payment.
10. After payment is confirmed, print out the completed application form and payment receipt.
11. Visit the passport office on the scheduled appointment date with all required documents, including the completed application form and payment receipt, for biometric data capture and processing.

It is important to note that the online application process for an international passport in Nigeria is only the first step and that the applicant must still visit a passport office for biometric data capture and processing.

Additionally, the online application process may vary depending on the current procedures and requirements of the Nigeria Immigration Service.

Payment of Application Fees

Payment of application fees is an important step in obtaining an international passport in Nigeria. Passport fees depend on the type of passport and processing.

Passport fees can be paid at any bank in Nigeria or online using a valid debit or credit card.

To pay passport fees, the applicant must generate a Payment Reference Number (PRN) by completing the online application form on the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) website.

A PRN is a unique number used to track and verify payments made for a passport application.

Once the PRN is generated, the applicant must go to the bank and present the PRN at the counter.

The bank processes the payment and issues a payment receipt, which must be kept as proof of payment.

Alternatively, the applicant can pay the passport fees online using a valid debit or credit card.

To pay online, the applicant must visit the NIS website and select the “online payment” option.

The applicant must provide the PRN number and other necessary information before making the payment.

It is important to note that passport fees are non-refundable and failure to pay will result in the application being rejected.

Therefore, it is important to ensure that payments are made correctly and that payment receipts are kept safely.

Biometric Data Capture

Biometric data capture is a mandatory requirement for obtaining an international passport in Nigeria. Biometric data refers to unique physical and biological characteristics that can be used to identify an individual, such as fingerprints, facial recognition, and iris scans.

After completing the online application and paying the necessary fees, the applicant must visit a designated passport office for biometric data capture. At the passport office, the applicant’s biometric data will be collected, and this includes:

1. Photographs: The applicant’s photograph will be taken in a biometric format that meets the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standard. The photograph must be taken without glasses, hats or headgear, and the applicant must maintain a neutral facial expression with the mouth closed.
2. Fingerprints: The applicant’s fingerprints will be captured using a digital fingerprint scanner. All ten fingerprints will be taken, including thumbs.
3. Signature: The applicant’s signature will be digitally captured.
4. Iris Scan: In some cases, the applicant’s iris scan may also be taken.

It is important to note that the biometric data capture process is a critical aspect of the passport application process, and applicants must ensure that all details and information provided during the application process are accurate. Failure to provide accurate information may result in the passport application being rejected.

After the biometric data capture process is completed, the applicant will be provided with a collection slip indicating the date when the passport will be ready for pickup. The applicant should ensure that they collect the passport on the designated date and at the designated location.

Collection of Passport

After completing the biometric data collection process, the applicant must collect their international passport.

The date and place of the collection will be announced to the applicant in the certificate delivered to the passport office.

To collect the passport, the applicant must present proof of collection and a valid identity document, such as a national identity card or driver’s license, at the designated passport office.

The applicant must ensure that they arrive on the agreed pick-up day and within the specified delivery time to avoid possible delays.

If the applicant cannot collect the passport in person, he can authorize someone else to collect the passport on his behalf.

The authorized person must submit a power of attorney signed by the applicant, a valid identity document, and a debt certificate.

It is important to note that an international passport is a valuable travel document and the applicant must take appropriate measures to secure it.

The passport must be kept in a safe place and must not be shared with anyone else.

In case of loss or theft, the applicant must immediately report to the nearest police station and the Nigerian Immigration Service.

Finally, the applicant is advised to check the correctness of the passport data and biometric data before leaving the passport office.

All errors must be reported immediately to avoid future complications.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for an International Passport in Nigeria

Below are some common mistakes to avoid while applying for an International Passport in Nigeria.

• Inaccurate Information
• Failure to Follow Instructions
• Submission of Fake Documents
• Incomplete Application Forms

Incomplete Application Forms

The Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) will not process incomplete passport applications.

The applicant is responsible for ensuring that all mandatory fields of the application form are filled in correctly and completely.

If the application is incomplete, the applicant must provide the missing information and complete the form before proceeding with the passport application.

In some cases, the applicant may be required to start the application process from the beginning.

To avoid delay or rejection of the passport application, applicants must carefully read and follow the instructions on the application form and ensure that all required documents are submitted with the form.

If there is any difficulty or confusion in completing the application form, the applicant can seek assistance from the designated passport office or the Nigerian Immigration Service website.

Inaccurate Information

Providing incorrect information on the passport application form may lead to the application being rejected or the wrong passport being issued.

The applicant is responsible for ensuring that all information provided in the application form is accurate and true.

If the information is provided incorrectly, the applicant may be subject to legal sanctions which may affect their chances of obtaining a passport in the future.

To avoid providing incorrect information, applicants must carefully read and understand the instructions on the application form and provide all information to the best of their knowledge.

If there is any ambiguity or doubt about the information, the applicant should seek guidance from the designated passport office or the Nigerian Immigration Service website.

It is also important to check the completed application form and ensure that all information provided is correct before submitting it for processing.

Any errors or omissions must be corrected immediately to avoid future complications.

Failure to Follow Instructions

Failure to follow the instructions in the passport application may result in the application being delayed or rejected.

The Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) provides detailed instructions on the application form and on its website to guide applicants through the process.

It is important that candidates read and understand the instructions carefully before completing and submitting the application form for processing.

Failure to follow instructions may result in incomplete or incorrect application forms, missing documents, or incorrect payments.

In some cases, failure to follow the guidelines may also result in additional fees or fines.

If, for example, the applicant misses the collection of biometric data after the agreed time, he can incur a fine to change the time.

To avoid delays or inconvenience in the application, applicants must carefully follow all instructions given by NIS, including deadlines for documents and payments, attending meetings, and collecting passports.

If there is any ambiguity or doubt regarding the instructions, applicants should seek guidance from the designated passport office or the NIS website.

Submission of Fake Documents

Submitting false documents in the passport application process is illegal and can lead to serious consequences such as application rejection, court proceedings, and in some cases imprisonment.

The Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) has strict policies against the use of forged documents in the passport application process.

To obtain an international passport in Nigeria, applicants must submit authentic and verifiable documents such as birth certificates, national identity cards, and proof of address.

Falsification of these documents may be considered a crime and the applicant may be prosecuted.

To avoid the risk of submitting false documents, applicants must ensure that all documents are genuine and verifiable.

They must also ensure that the documents match the information provided in the application form. Doubts or ambiguities regarding the documents must be resolved at the designated passport office or on the NIS website.

It is important to note that the use of forged documents not only jeopardizes the passport application process but also undermines the integrity of the passport system and national security.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to obtain an international passport in Nigeria?

The processing time to obtain an international passport in Nigeria varies and depends on several factors such as the location of the passport office, the number of applications processed, and whether the application is complete and accurate.

Generally, the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) endeavors to process passport applications within 48 hours of receipt of a complete and accurate application form.

However, the actual processing time may be longer if there are problems with the application, such as missing or inaccurate information, or if there are many requests being processed.

Once the application is approved, the passport will be printed and issued, and the applicant will receive a notification from the selected passport office to collect it.

The time required to receive the passport may also vary depending on the location of the passport office and the applicant’s availability.

In general, it is important that applicants plan ahead and allow sufficient time for the passport application process, including possible delays.

Applicants should also ensure that their application is complete and accurate to avoid unnecessary delays and complications.

Can I renew my international passport?

Yes, it is possible to renew an international passport in Nigeria.

Persons who were previously issued a standard international passport whose validity period has expired or is about to expire may apply for a passport renewal.

To renew an international passport in Nigeria, applicants must submit their current passport together with a completed application form and other required documents such as proof of payment, two passport-size photographs, and any other documents required by the Nigerian Immigration Service. (NIS).

The renewal process is similar to the original application and applicants should ensure that their application is complete and accurate to avoid potential delays and complications.

The processing time for passport renewal can vary depending on the location of the passport office and the number of applications being processed.

It is important to note that passport renewal is only possible for standard international passports.

If a person wants to change to an official or diplomatic passport, he must submit a new application form and meet the relevant requirements for the type of passport he wants.

How much does it cost to obtain an international passport in Nigeria?

The cost of obtaining an international passport in Nigeria depends on several factors, including the type of passport, the validity period, and the applicant’s age.

As of September 2021, the current fees for international passports in Nigeria are as follows:

• 32-page standard passport with a validity of 5 years: N25,750
• 64-page standard passport with a validity of 5 years: N35,750
• 64-page standard passport with a validity of 10 years (for adults only): N70,000

Note that these fees are subject to change at any time, so it is always advisable to confirm the current fees with the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) before starting the application process.

In addition to the passport application fee, applicants may also need to pay additional fees for services such as expedited processing, lost or damaged passport replacement, and other related services.

Can I obtain an international passport if I am not a Nigerian citizen?

No, it is not possible to get an international passport in Nigeria if you are not a Nigerian citizen.

The Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) issues international passports to Nigerian citizens who wish to travel outside the country for various reasons including business, education, and tourism.

However, non-Nigerian nationals who wish to travel to Nigeria can obtain a visa from the Nigerian embassy or consulate in their home or country of residence.

The type of visa required depends on the purpose of the visit, and the visa application process may require the presence of various documents and the payment of a fee.

It is important to note that overstaying a visa or other immigration-related violations can result in serious consequences such as fines, deportation, and future travel restrictions.

It is therefore important that all visitors comply with Nigeria’s immigration laws and regulations.

What happens if my passport application is rejected?

If the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) rejects your passport application, you will be informed of the reason for the rejection.

Some of the most common reasons why passport applications can be rejected are incomplete or inaccurate applications, submission of false documents, failure to follow instructions, and unpaid fees or fines.

If your application is denied, you may need to reapply and provide the necessary documents or information to resolve the issue that caused the denial.

In some cases, you may be asked to appear in person at the passport office to provide additional information or clarification.

It is important to note that attempting to obtain a passport fraudulently or providing false information can result in serious legal consequences such as fines, imprisonment, and a permanent ban on obtaining a passport or travel.

It is therefore important to ensure that all the information provided in your passport application is accurate and true.

Can I track the status of my passport application online?

Yes, you can track your passport application online using the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) portal.

The portal allows you to check the progress of your application and see when your passport is ready for collection.

You can track your passport application by visiting the NIS website and clicking on the “Passport” tab. Then select “Track Application Status” and enter your application ID and reference number.

You can find this information on the confirmation form you received when you applied.

Once you’ve entered your details, the portal will show you the status of your application, including any updates on when your passport will be ready for collection.

It is important to remember that the processing time for passport applications can vary depending on the number of applications processed, so you should check the status of your application regularly to stay informed.

What should I do if my international passport is lost or stolen?

If your international passport is lost or stolen, it is important to take immediate steps to prevent identity theft and obtain a new passport. Here are the steps you need to take.

• Report loss or theft: As soon as you realize that your passport is lost or stolen, report it to the nearest police station and obtain a police report. You should also inform the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) and file a police report with them.
• Obtaining a replacement passport: You must apply for a replacement passport. The process of obtaining a replacement passport is similar to applying for a new passport, and all necessary documents and fees must be paid. Be aware of the risk of identity theft: If your passport falls into the wrong hands, it can be used for identity theft. Remember to check your bank accounts and credit reports for suspicious activity.
• Notifying the Embassy: If you are traveling abroad, it is important to notify the Nigerian Embassy or Consulate in the country you are visiting. They can help you get a replacement passport and advise you on other steps you need to take to protect your identity.
• Be prepared for travel delays: If you are traveling and your passport is lost or stolen, your travel plans may be delayed. It is important to allow enough time to obtain a new passport before your next trip.

Do I need a visa to travel with my international passport?

Yes, a visa is usually required to travel to most countries with an international passport. However, visa requirements differ from country to country, and it is recommended to familiarize yourself with the visa requirements of the destination country before traveling.

See Understanding Nigerian Passport Renewal Fees: Everything You Need to Know

Conclusion

Importance of adhering to requirements for obtaining an international passport in Nigeria

Adhering to the requirements to obtain an international passport in Nigeria is crucial to ensure a smooth and successful application.

Failure to comply with any requirement may result in delays, application rejection, or even legal consequences.

To avoid complications, it is important to carefully review all requirements and provide accurate and authentic information and documents.

Obtaining an international passport is an important step for anyone planning to travel abroad and it is important to ensure that the process is followed correctly to avoid unnecessary difficulties or delays.

Encouragement to apply for an international passport if eligible

If you are eligible to apply for an international passport in Nigeria, it is highly recommended.

An international passport is not only a requirement for international travel, it is also an important form of identification.

This allows you to take advantage of many benefits and opportunities, such as studying or working abroad, attending conferences or events and learning about new cultures and experiences.

By obtaining an international passport, you open up a world of opportunities and possibilities.

So, if you meet the requirements for an international passport, take the opportunity and apply today.

This could be the first step to a life-changing experience.