How to Apply for or Renew a Nigerian Passport Online: Official NIS Portal, Costs & Step-by-Step Guide

Looking to get a new Nigerian passport or renew an expiring booklet? Here is an official, comprehensive guide on official NIS fees, mandatory NIN requirements, necessary documents, and the step-by-step online application process.

Whether you are preparing to study abroad, heading out for business, or simply updating your travel documents, acquiring or renewing a Nigerian International Passport is now a digital-first process managed by the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS).

To curb extortion, reduce long queues, and streamline processing, the Federal Government mandates that all application filings, document uploads, and fee payments must be completed online via the official NIS portal.

Here is an accurate, reliable breakdown of the official costs, required documents, and step-by-step procedures to apply for a fresh passport or renew an existing one.

Official Nigerian Passport Fees

Following official administrative tariff reviews, passport fees are standardized across all domestic processing centers in Nigeria. Note: Renewal fees are identical to fresh application fees.

Crucial Warning: The Nigerian Immigration Service strictly prohibits cash payments at passport processing centers. All payments must be made online via official Remita/gateway integration on the portal. Any request for cash payment by third parties or unauthorized agents is illegal.

Primary Requirements & Checklist

1. Mandatory Core Requirement (For All Applicants)

• National Identification Number (NIN): Your 11-digit NIN is non-negotiable. The NIS portal verifies your personal identity directly against the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) database. Ensure that the name order, date of birth, and phone number on your NIN match your academic and personal documents exactly.

2. Required Documents for Fresh Applicants (First-Time Adults)

• Birth Certificate or Attestation/Age Declaration (issued by the National Population Commission or a recognized court).

• Local Government Certificate of Origin or Letter of Identification from your LGA Chairman or traditional ruler.

• Proof of Identity Document (e.g., Primary/Secondary School certificate, Driver’s Licence, or State ID).

• Guarantor’s Form (Downloaded from the portal, fully completed, signed, and accompanied by a copy of the guarantor’s valid Nigerian Passport or NIN).

• Two recent passport-sized photographs (ICAO standard, white background, no face obstruction).

3. Required Documents for Passport Renewal / Re-issue

• Original Expiring/Expired Passport (and a photocopy of the data page).

• NIN Slip/Card.

• Passport Application & Payment Slips printed from the NIS portal.

• If lost or stolen: An official Police Extract/Report, a Sworn Court Affidavit of Loss, and proof of payment for lost passport processing.

  Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply or Renew Online

  

  Step 1: Access the Official NIS Portal

  1. Open your web browser and navigate directly to the official portal: passport.immigration.gov.ng.

  2. Click Register (or Sign In if you already have an account).

  Step 2: Select Your Application Type

  • Click “Apply for Fresh Passport” if you are getting a passport for the first time.

  • Click “Apply for Renewal/Re-issue” if you are renewing an expired, expiring, or damaged booklet.

  Step 3: Enter Your NIN & Personal Details

  • Key in your 11-digit NIN. The system will pull your biographical data from NIMC to verify your identity.

  • Choose your desired Passport Type (32-Page / 5-Year or 64-Page / 10-Year).

  • Select your preferred Processing Center/State Command (e.g., Enugu, Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt) where you will attend your biometric capture.

  Step 4: Upload Required Supporting Documents

  • Scan and upload high-resolution digital copies of your birth certificate, LGA identification, and passport photograph as prompted. Ensure files are clear and fit within specified upload limits (JPEG or PDF format).

  Step 5: Complete Online Payment

  • Review your application summary carefully.

  • Proceed to the secure payment gateway and complete payment using your debit card or internet banking.

  • Important: Immediately download and print your Payment Receipt and Application Acknowledgment Slip.

  Step 6: Schedule & Attend Biometric Capture

  • Book an available appointment slot for physical biometric verification (fingerprinting and digital facial capture) at your selected NIS office.

  • On your appointment date, dress appropriately (dark-colored clothing recommended; avoid tinted glasses or headwear that obscures facial features) and bring:

    • Printed Application Form and Payment Receipt.

    • Original copies of all uploaded supporting documents.

    • Your expiring passport (if applying for renewal).

  Processing Timelines & Tracking Your Status

  • Standard Processing Time: Standard processing typically takes 3 to 6 weeks following successful biometric capture, depending on booklet availability at your designated command center.

  • Tracking Status: Applicants can track the real-time processing status of their booklet via the official NIS online portal or the official NIS Mobile App using their Application ID and Reference Number.