The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has released an updated step-by-step guide for its Contactless Passport Application System, enabling eligible Nigerians in the diaspora to renew their passports without visiting an embassy. The guide, shared on the NIS official X page on July 7, 2026, outlines a fully digital process that uses the NIS Mobile App for biometric enrolment.
Who can use the contactless system?
The contactless option is available only to applicants deemed eligible by the system. According to the NIS, after creating an account on the official Passport Application portal and verifying identity with their National Identification Number (NIN) and date of birth, applicants fill out the form, select their preferred embassy or high commission, upload required documents, and pay the application fee. They then receive an Application ID and Reference Number.
Under the Application Status/Book Appointment section, applicants can choose the Contactless option, read the instructions, and opt in. The next step is downloading the NIS Mobile App, logging in, selecting Passport Application Services, and proceeding with Passport Biometrics Enrolment.
Biometric enrolment process
Using the Application ID and Reference Number, the app checks eligibility. Eligible applicants capture their facial image, scan fingerprints, complete liveness verification, pay the contactless service fee, and submit biometrics—all without visiting the embassy. However, the NIS stated: "If the response is INELIGIBLE, then it means the applicant should return to the landing page of the portal to book a physical appointment at the Embassy/High Commission."
Final steps after biometrics
Successful applicants must print the application form, passport booklet payment, biometric payment, and current passport, and enclose all in a self-addressed return envelope to the processing embassy. The NIS added: "Applicants may track successful applications two weeks after submission via https://track.immigration.gov.ng or on the NIS Mobile App."
The Contactless Passport Application System is part of the Federal Government's efforts to digitise passport services, reduce waiting times, and ease renewal for millions of Nigerians abroad.
