Nigerians abroad can now renew passports digitally through NIS platform

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has recently made public an updated, comprehensive guide for its Contactless Passport Application System, specifically designed for Nigerians residing outside the country who wish to renew their passports. This significant update was shared by the Service via an official announcement on its X (formerly Twitter) account on Tuesday. The NIS urged members of the Nigerian diaspora community to utilize this advanced digital platform for their passport renewal needs.

The NIS outlined the following sequential steps for applicants seeking to use this digital renewal method:

1. Begin by navigating to the official NIS Passport Application web portal.

2. Proceed by clicking 'Continue' on the subsequent pop-up window.

3. Choose the 'Apply for Renewal/Re-issue' option.

4. Establish an account and confirm your identity using your National Identification Number (NIN) alongside your date of birth.

5. Fill out the application form thoroughly and then select your desired processing embassy or high commission.

6. Upload all necessary supporting documents.

7. Remit the appropriate passport fee for your chosen booklet type.

8. Secure your unique Application ID and Reference Number.

9. Under the 'Application Status/Book Appointment' section, opt for the 'Contactless' service.

10. Carefully read the contactless instructions provided, then confirm by clicking “I Understand and Opt In.”

11. Download and install the dedicated NIS Mobile App.

12. Either log into an existing profile or create a new one within the application.

13. Navigate to 'Passport Application Services'.

14. Select 'Passport Biometrics Enrolment', input your Application ID and Reference Number, and verify your eligibility for the contactless process.

15. Proceed to capture your facial image and fingerprints using the app.

16. Undergo the required liveness verification process.

17. Pay the associated contactless service fee.

18. Finally, submit your captured biometric data.

However, the Service made it clear that eligibility for the contactless process is not universal for all applicants. The NIS explicitly stated, “If response is INELIGIBLE, then it means applicant should return to the landing page of the portal to book physical appointment at the Embassy/High Commission.”

For those who successfully complete the biometric enrolment via the contactless method, the NIS specified that further documentation must be dispatched to their chosen processing mission. The Service further advised, “Upon successful completion of biometrics via Contactless App, applicant should print-out the Application form, passport booklet payment, biometric payment, current Passport and enclose all in a self-addressed return envelope to the processing embassy selected during the application process.”

Furthermore, the NIS confirmed that applicants would gain the ability to track the status of their applications once submitted. The Service concluded by stating, “Applicant may track successful application two weeks after submission via https://track.immigration.gov.ng or on the NIS Mobile App.”