The Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) has introduced a contactless passport application system that allows Nigerians living abroad to renew their passports without physically visiting an embassy or high commission for biometric enrolment. This new process aims to reduce the stress, travel costs, and time associated with passport renewal for eligible Nigerians in the diaspora.
How the Contactless Passport Renewal Works
Under the new system, eligible applicants can complete most of the renewal process online and submit their biometric information remotely. Applicants can verify their identities using their National Identification Number (NIN) and date of birth, making the process more convenient for Nigerians who live far from diplomatic missions.
To begin, applicants should visit the official Nigerian Immigration Service passport portal and select “Apply from Outside Nigeria.” They should then choose “Apply for Renewal or Reissue” and create an account or log into an existing one, according to Vanguard reports.
Step-by-Step Guide for Passport Renewal
Applicants will need to verify their identity using their NIN and date of birth before completing the passport application form. They should select their preferred processing embassy or high commission and upload the required documents. After paying the applicable passport fee, applicants will receive an application ID and reference number. These details should be kept safely because they will be required during subsequent stages of the application.
Applicants will then be presented with options for either a physical appointment or a contactless appointment. Those eligible for the contactless service can select “Opt in for Contactless” under the application status or appointment section.
Use the NRS Mobile App for Biometrics
Eligible applicants will be directed to download the NRS mobile app and either log in or create an account. From the app, they should select “Passport Application Services” and then “Passport Biometric Enrolment.” The applicant will enter the application ID and reference number to confirm eligibility.
If approved, the app will guide the applicant through capturing their facial image and fingerprints before submitting the biometric information for review. Once the biometrics have been successfully reviewed and the applicant is confirmed eligible, they will be required to pay the applicable contactless service fee.
What if You Are Not Eligible?
Applicants who do not qualify for contactless enrolment can return to the passport portal and schedule a physical appointment at their selected embassy or high commission. After completing the required payment, applicants should print their application form and retrieve their current national passport. Both documents should be placed in a self-addressed return envelope and sent to the selected processing mission, according to the application instructions.
How to Track Your Passport Application
Applicants can begin tracking their applications about two weeks after submission through the passport tracking portal or the NRS mobile app. The contactless system could significantly simplify passport renewal for eligible Nigerians abroad by reducing the need for embassy visits.
Legit.ng earlier reported that the NIS has unveiled an updated step-by-step guide for its Contactless Passport Application System, making it easier for eligible Nigerians living abroad to renew their passports without physically visiting a Nigerian embassy or high commission for biometric enrolment. The updated guide, released on the Service's official X account on Tuesday, outlines how applicants can complete most of the passport renewal process remotely through the NIS online portal and mobile application.
