NIS introduces Contactless Passport Renewal procedures for Nigerians in Diaspora

Nigerians living abroad can now renew their passports without visiting an embassy for biometric enrolment through the new contactless passport application system.

The NIS has released a step-by-step guide detailing how applicants can complete the process online, verify their identity with their NIN, and submit biometrics through the NRS mobile app.

A New Era for Diaspora Nigerians

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has unveiled a comprehensive step-by-step guide for Nigerians living abroad to renew their passports through its Contactless Passport Application System, eliminating the need for physical visits to embassies or high commissions for biometric enrolment.

The system is designed to make passport renewal faster, easier and more convenient for eligible Nigerians in the diaspora.

Applicants can complete and track their applications online, without having to visit an embassy.

How the Contactless Passport Renewal Works

The process begins on the official Nigerian Immigration Service passport portal. Applicants should select “Apply from Outside Nigeria” and then click “Apply for Renewal or Reissue” to start the application.

Step 1: Account Creation and Identity Verification

Applicants are expected to create an account and verify their identity with their National Identification Number (NIN) and date of birth.Step

2: Complete the Application Form

They will then complete the application form, select their preferred processing embassy and upload the required documents.

Step 3: Payment

After paying the passport fee, applicants will receive an application ID and reference number, which should be kept safe throughout the application process.

Step 4: Choose Appointment Type

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Applicants will then be given the option of choosing either a physical appointment or a contactless appointment. Those who qualify for the contactless service can select “Opt in for Contactless” under the application status or book appointment section.

Step 5: Download the NRS AppThe applicant will need to download the NRS mobile app and log in or create an account. From the app, they should select “Passport Application Services” and then “Passport Biometric Enrolment”.

Step 6: Biometric SubmissionThe application ID and reference number will be entered into the app to check eligibility. If eligible, the applicant will be guided through capturing their facial image and fingerprints before submitting their biometrics for review.

Step 7: Service Fee and SubmissionOnce the biometrics have been reviewed successfully, they will be asked to pay the contactless service fee.

Applicants who are not eligible can return to the portal and book a physical appointment at their selected embassy or high commission.

Step 8: Final SubmissionAfter completing payment, applicants are required to print their application form and retrieve their current national passport.

Both should be placed in a self-addressed return envelope and sent to the selected processing embassy.

Tracking Your Application

Applicants can begin tracking their applications two weeks after submission through the tracking portal or the NRS mobile app.

A Warning to Applicants

The NIS advised applicants to use only official Nigerian Immigration Service channels when applying for or renewing their passports.

A Lesson for Nigeria

The contactless passport system is a welcome innovation that promises to eliminate one of the most frustrating experiences for Nigerians abroad.

For years, passport renewal has been a bureaucratic nightmare involving long queues, arbitrary fees and endless delays.

The same officials who created these obstacles will never allow their own children to endure such frustration.

But for millions of ordinary Nigerians, this innovation is a lifeline. It is a reminder that technology can transform governance, if the political will exists to implement it.