Nigeria Launches Contactless Passport Renewal System: What You Need to Know

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has introduced a “contactless passport application system” allowing Nigerians to renew their international passports entirely online. Launched on 1 November 2024, the new system enables Nigerians to complete passport renewals from home, eliminating the need to visit any NIS office for capturing, fingerprinting, or documentation.

The NIS announced this service on its social media platform, X (formerly Twitter), stating that the contactless renewal system will roll out in phases. The first phase, starting in Canada, begins immediately. Phase two will cover the UK, USA, and Italy on 15 November, while phase three will launch in Nigeria and other countries on 1 December 2024.

This new platform is only for passport renewals, NIS clarified in a video explainer. New applicants must still visit NIS offices for initial biometric capturing and registration.

Earlier this year, in May, Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, said that by June, Nigerians would be able to have passports delivered to their homes, as the ministry works toward a fully automated passport process. He mentioned that courier delivery would be available for an added fee. The current contactless renewal system aims to simplify the process and reduce waiting times, which previously took months but are now down to a few weeks.

“With these new reforms, we’re targeting a two-week processing time for passport renewals,” said Minister Tunji-Ojo. “In some areas, we still see about three weeks, but we are working to reduce this to one week in the near future.”

How to Apply for the Contactless Passport Renewal

Nigerians can renew their passports by downloading the NIS mobile app, once it becomes available in their region, or by visiting the NIS website. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Create a Profile: Register with a valid email address.

2. Eligibility Check: Take an eligibility test to ensure the passport qualifies for renewal.

3. Identification Details: Enter the National Identification Number (NIN) and current passport number for verification.

4. Personal Information and Document Upload: Fill in personal details and upload required documents, including NIN, birth certificate, and local government certificate.

5. Biometric Capture: Use a mobile device to capture fingerprint biometrics.

6. Payment: Complete the payment online to finalize the application.

7. Submission and Processing: Submit the application and wait for processing. The passport will be delivered to the applicant’s address.

Requirements for New Passport Applications

For first-time applicants, including adults and minors, documents required include a letter of identification, a completed passport application form, a National Identity Card or letter from a local government, and payment proof. Additional documents may be required for minors or adopted children.

 A Move Toward Streamlined Service

The contactless system is part of NIS’s ongoing efforts to modernize its services. Since Minister Tunji-Ojo took office, the focus has been on creating efficient, user-friendly processes that reduce long wait times and improve the passport application experience for Nigerians both at home and abroad.

This innovative system is expected to greatly ease the passport renewal process for Nigerians, allowing them to complete everything from the comfort of their homes.