An international passport is one of the most significant documents a Nigerian citizen can possess. It proves identity and nationality and opens doors to international travel for business, education, tourism, or other purposes. In Nigeria, the issuance of passports is handled by the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS).
While the process has been simplified in recent years, many applicants still struggle due to misinformation or reliance on unofficial sources. To make the process easier, this essay provides a clear and practical step-by-step guide to applying for an international passport in Nigeria.
Prepare the Required Documents
The journey begins with gathering all necessary documents. This stage is often underestimated, yet it determines how smooth the rest of the process will be. The essential items include a birth certificate or age declaration, a National Identification Number (NIN) slip, two recent passport-sized photographs, and a certificate of state of origin or local government identification.
For those under eighteen, parental consent is also required. Preparing these documents in advance helps applicants avoid last-minute rushes and frustrating delays once they reach the official application stage.
Choose the Appropriate Passport Type
With documents in place, the next consideration is the type of passport to apply for. The most common is the standard e-passport, available in either five-year or ten-year validity. Each of these comes in two booklet sizes: the 32-page and the 64-page versions.
Frequent travelers often opt for the larger booklet, while others may find the smaller one sufficient. Nigeria also issues official and diplomatic passports, though these are reserved for government officials and cannot be requested by ordinary citizens. Deciding on the appropriate type early is wise, since both the cost and the requirements differ depending on the choice.
Access the Official Application Portal
Once these decisions are made, the application process moves online. The official Nigeria Immigration Service application portal is https://passport.immigration.gov.ng. It is important to use only this platform to avoid fraudulent agents who promise shortcuts.
On the portal, applicants create an account and provide details such as their full name, date of birth, marital status, occupation, phone number, and email address. At the end of this stage, an application ID and reference number are generated. These serve as vital identifiers for tracking the application later. For general information and resources, the main NIS website—https://immigration.gov.ng—is also useful
Complete the Online Application Form
After registration, the applicant must fill out the online application form carefully. This step requires extra attention because the passport will function as an official identification document both within and outside Nigeria. Even a small error in the spelling of a name or the entry of a date of birth can cause long-term complications, including visa denials. Reviewing the form thoroughly before submission is therefore crucial, since corrections afterward are not simple and may involve a lengthy process.
Make Payment for the Passport Booklet
With the form completed, the next stage is payment. Applicants are directed to make payment either online through the NIS application portal or at designated banks linked from passport.immigration.gov.ng.
The exact fee depends on the type of passport chosen—the ten-year, 64-page version costs more than the five-year, 32-page option. Once the payment is successful, a receipt is generated. This receipt must be printed, as it will be required later during the biometric capture stage
Print the Application Receipts and Slips
After payment, applicants are expected to print not only the receipt but also the completed application form and acknowledgment slip. These documents are vital for confirmation and presentation at the passport office. Without them, the application cannot proceed to the next stage.
Schedule an Appointment for Biometric Capture
The process then advances to biometric capture, which is an essential security measure. Through the NIS portal, applicants must book an appointment at their chosen passport office. The appointment system helps manage the large number of applicants and reduces unnecessary waiting. It is, however, advisable to secure an early date, especially in busy urban centers like Lagos and Abuja, where demand is high.
Attend the Biometric Data Capture Session
On the scheduled date, applicants must appear in person at the passport office with their printed documents and identification materials. At the office, officials will verify the documents before proceeding to biometric capture. During this session, the applicant’s photograph, fingerprints, and digital signature are recorded. This stage ensures that the passport is securely linked to the applicant’s unique identity and cannot easily be forged or misused.
Wait for Application Processing
After biometric data has been captured, the application enters the processing stage. This period requires patience, as the waiting time can vary depending on the office and the workload. While some passports are ready in a matter of days, others may take several weeks. Applicants can use the acknowledgment slip or check status updates through the official NIS website (immigration.gov.ng) to monitor progress.
Collect the Issued Passport
The final step is the collection of the passport itself. Applicants are usually notified when their passport is ready, though in some cases they may need to check with the passport office. Upon collection, it is important to carefully review all details such as names, dates, and photographs. Any errors should be reported immediately so that corrections can be made.
Helpful Tips for Applicants
Several practical tips can make the application process smoother. First, applicants should always apply well in advance of their intended travel to avoid the stress of unexpected delays. Second, it is wise to avoid touts and unauthorized agents, as they may charge high fees or even provide fake documents. Third, keeping photocopies of all documents can be very helpful in case any are misplaced or requested again. Above all, patience and careful adherence to official procedures remain the keys to success.
Although applying for an international passport in Nigeria may initially appear daunting, it becomes manageable when approached step by step. From preparing the necessary documents and choosing the correct passport type to completing the online form, making payment, undergoing biometric capture, and finally collecting the passport, each stage plays a vital role.
More than just a travel document, the Nigerian international passport is a gateway to global opportunities in education, business, and personal growth. By following the proper procedures and relying only on the official platforms—passport.immigration.gov.ng and immigration.gov.ng—every Nigerian citizen can successfully obtain one.
Recently, the Federal Government announced review of the cost of passports stated September 1, 2025.
Announcing the development, the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS)’s spokesman, ACI AS Akinlabi, said in a statement that the change applies only to applications filed within Nigeria.
The new rates set the 32-page passport with five-year validity at ₦100,000. The 64-page passport with 10-year validity will cost ₦200,000.
