Nigerian Passport

Applying for a Nigerian passport involves several steps, beginning with obtaining the National Identification Number (NIN). Here's a detailed guide to walk you through the entire process:

Step 1: Obtain the National Identification Number (NIN)

The NIN is a unique identifier assigned to every Nigerian citizen and legal resident. Here’s how to obtain it:

1. Locate an Enrollment Center:

   • Find a NIMC (National Identity Management Commission) enrollment center near you. For those in Toronto and the GTA, the NIN Center located at 718 Wilson Avenue, Unit 201, M3K 1E2, Toronto, is an official partner for NIN enrolments and updates. Book your appointment here: https://www.nin.center/book-appointments

2. Required Documents:

   • A valid form of identification to prove Nigeria citizenship such as a birth certificate or a Nigerian passport (current or expired).

   • BVN (if registered).

   • One parent's NIN, for minors (under 16 years old).

3. Enrollment Process:

   • Visit the enrollment center with the required documents.

   • Fill out the NIN enrollment form provided.

   • Your biometric data (fingerprints, facial photograph) will be captured.

   • After biometric capture, a tracking slip with a unique number will be provided.

4. Verification and Issuance:

   • The verification process may take a few days to weeks.

   • Once verified, you will receive your NIN slip via email, which you need to keep safe as it will be required for various services, including passport application.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents for Passport Application

Before you proceed with your passport application, ensure you have the following documents ready:

1. NIN Slip:

   • Your National Identification Number slip obtained from NIMC.

2. Passport Photographs:

   • Two recent passport-sized photographs.

3. Birth Certificate/Age Declaration:

   • An official birth certificate or age declaration document.

4. Completed Passport Application Form:

   • The application form is available on the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) website.

5. Payment Evidence:

   • Proof of payment for the passport application fee.

6. Other Supporting Documents:

   • If applicable, provide documents such as a marriage certificate, police report for lost passports, or affidavit of change of name.

Step 3: Apply Online

1. Visit the Nigeria Immigration Service Portal:

   • Go to the official NIS portal at https://portal.immigration.gov.ng/.

2. Complete the Online Application Form:

   • Fill in all required information accurately.

   • Upload scanned copies of your supporting documents.

3. Payment:

   • Pay the passport application fee online using the available payment options.

   • Print the payment confirmation receipt.

4. Appointment Scheduling:

   • Schedule an appointment for your biometric capture and document verification at the nearest NIS office or Nigerian embassy/consulate.

Step 4: Visit the NIS Office or Embassy/Consulate

1. Attend Your Scheduled Appointment:

   • Arrive at the NIS office or Nigerian embassy/consulate on your appointment date.

   • Bring along all original documents and photocopies for verification.

2. Biometric Capture:

   • Your fingerprints, photograph, and signature will be captured.

3. Interview:

   • You may be required to attend a brief interview.

4. Submission and Verification:

   • Submit your documents for final verification.

Step 5: Collect Your Passport

1. Notification:

   • You will be notified via SMS or email when your passport is ready for collection.

2. Collection:

   • Visit the NIS office or embassy/consulate to collect your passport.

   • Present your receipt and identification for verification.

Additional Tips

• Check for Updates: Regularly check the NIS website or contact the NIS office for updates on your application status.

• Renewal or Lost Passport: The process for renewing a passport or replacing a lost one follows similar steps, with additional documentation such as an old passport or a police report for lost passports.

• Validity: Ensure your NIN and other documents are valid and up-to-date to avoid any delays.

By following these steps, you can successfully apply for a Nigerian passport, starting with obtaining your NIN.