How to Get Your Nigerian Passport in 2026: The Complete Step-by-Step Guide

What Is a Nigerian Passport?

The Nigerian passport is the official travel document issued by the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) that certifies your identity and citizenship. It allows you to travel internationally and serves as one of the most widely accepted forms of identification both within and outside Nigeria. There are currently two main types: the standard booklet passport (32 or 64 pages) and the e-passport, which is the modern chip-enabled version Nigeria has been issuing since 2007.

Who Can Apply?

Any Nigerian citizen can apply for a passport, including: - Nigerians by birth - Nigerians by registration or naturalization - Children and minors (with parental consent)

Documents You Need

Before you go anywhere, gather these documents. Showing up without any one of them can send you home empty-handed.

For First-Time Applicants (Adults): - Original National Identity Card (NIN slip or NIN card) - Birth certificate (original and photocopy) - Local Government of Origin Certificate - Two passport photographs (white background, recent) - Completed application form (generated online after booking) - Evidence of Nigerian citizenship (if applicable)

For Renewal: - Old passport (original) - NIN card or NIN slip - Two recent passport photographs - Completed renewal form

For Minors (Under 18): - Birth certificate - Parents' valid passports - Parental consent form (Form NP001 or similar) - NIN (if the child already has one)

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Create an Account on the Immigration Portal

Go to immigration.gov.ng and create an account. You'll need a valid email address and a phone number. Once your account is set up, log in and start a new passport application.

Step 2: Fill in Your Personal Details

Enter your biodata accurately, full name as it appears on your birth certificate, date of birth, state of origin, local government area, and NIN. Any mismatch between your NIN data and what you enter here can cause rejection.

Step 3: Choose Your Passport Type and Validity

You'll be asked to select: - Booklet type: 32-page or 64-page - Validity: 5-year or 10-year

The 64-page booklet is recommended for frequent travelers. The 10-year passport is available only to applicants 18 years and older.

Step 4: Pay the Application Fee

Passport fees as of 2026: - 32-page, 5-year: ₦15,000 - 64-page, 5-year: ₦20,000 - 64-page, 10-year: ₦25,000

Payment is made online via Remita or at designated banks. Keep your payment receipt.

Step 5: Book an Appointment

After payment, book an appointment at your nearest Nigeria Immigration Service office or passport center. Available locations include major cities across all 36 states and the FCT. Select a date and time that works for you.

Step 6: Visit the Passport Office

Arrive at your appointment on time with all your documents. You'll go through: - Document verification - Biometric capture (fingerprints and photo) - Data confirmation

The entire process at the office, if everything is in order, usually takes 1–2 hours.

Step 7: Track Your Application

After your appointment, you can track your passport status online using your application ID. Standard processing takes 6–8 weeks. Express processing (where available) can reduce this to 2–3 weeks for an additional fee.

Step 8: Collect Your Passport

You'll receive an SMS when your passport is ready. Collect it from the same office where you submitted your biometrics, or have it delivered if the office offers that option.

Common Reasons Passports Are Rejected or Delayed

• NIN mismatch: Your name or date of birth differs between your NIN record and your application

• Poor photograph quality

• Expired or missing supporting documents

• Incomplete form fields

• Payment not confirmed or wrongly entered

Tips to Avoid Agent Fraud

Unscrupulous agents often charge ₦50,000 to ₦150,000 promising to "fast-track" your application. While third-party help can be legitimate, you should know that: - The passport portal is public and free to use - You can book your own appointment without paying anyone - Official fees are published on the NIS website

If you use an agent, only pay after delivery, and insist on a receipt.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for a passport without a NIN? No. NIN is now mandatory for passport applications. Get your NIN at the nearest NIMC center first.

What if my name changed after marriage? You'll need to present a marriage certificate and may be required to change your name on your NIN record first.

Can I apply at any passport office in Nigeria, or does it have to be in my state of origin? You can apply at any NIS office in Nigeria, regardless of your state of origin.

How long is a passport valid? Either 5 or 10 years, depending on what you applied for.