The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has revealed its intention to implement a phased contactless passport renewal system, starting in Canada on November 1, 2024.

This initiative aims to streamline and modernize the passport renewal process, enabling Nigerians to submit their renewal applications online, thereby minimizing the necessity for in-person visits to NIS offices.

After the launch in Canada, the service will be available in the UK, USA, and Italy on November 15, followed by its introduction in Nigeria and other international locations on December 1.

The official announcement regarding this new system was made on Wednesday through NIS’s X (formerly Twitter) account.

“In its continued effort to serve the Nigerian public more efficiently and create a functional system that meets global standards, the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has launched a new contactless and issuance process starting from November 1st, 2024. 

“Individuals will be able to apply to renew their international passports from the comfort of their homes without having to visit having to visit any NIS office,” stated an explainer video on the official NIS X page. 

The NIS explainer video offered additional insights, particularly regarding the contactless passport application process.

Nigerians can renew their passports by downloading the NIS mobile application from Google Play, the App Store, or Windows Store, or by visiting the web portal at www.passport.immigration.gov.ng.

Currently, the NIS mobile app is not available on Google Play or the App Store. However, it is anticipated that starting November 1, Nigerians in Canada will be able to access the app on these platforms and utilize the service.

The process includes the following steps:

  • Create a Profile: Register using a valid email to start the application.
  • Eligibility Check: Complete a brief eligibility assessment to confirm your passport is eligible for renewal.
  • Identity Details: Provide your National Identification Number (NIN) and current passport number for verification purposes.
  • Personal Information and Document Upload: Enter your personal details and upload required documents such as the NIN slip, birth certificate, and local government certificate.
  • Biometric Capture: Use your mobile device to capture fingerprint biometrics as needed for identity verification.
  • Review and Submit: Carefully review all information to ensure accuracy.
  • Make Payment: Complete the online payment to conclude the application process.
  • Application Submission: Submit your application and await processing.

Once processed, the renewed passport will be sent directly to the address provided by the applicant.

At this time, this efficient process is limited to passport renewals, representing a significant advancement by NIS in improving the efficiency and accessibility of public services.