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How to Collect Nigeria Passport: A Comprehensive Guide
If you need to travel abroad, you will need a passport, and if you are a citizen of Nigeria, you will need a Nigerian passport. Getting a Nigerian passport can be a bit of a hassle, but with the right information and guidance, the process can be smooth and stress-free. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through the steps required to obtain a Nigerian passport.
Understanding the Nigerian Passport
A Nigerian passport is a travel document issued to Nigerian citizens by the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS). It serves as proof of Nigerian citizenship and allows you to travel to other countries. The Nigerian passport is valid for ten years and can be renewed for another ten years.
The Nigerian passport comes in two types: the Standard e-Passport and the Official e-Passport. The Standard e-Passport is for Nigerian citizens who are 18 years and older and the Official e-Passport is for Nigerian government officials and diplomats.
Requirements for Obtaining a Nigerian Passport
To apply for a Nigerian passport, you must meet the following requirements:
- You must be a Nigerian citizen
- You must have a Nigerian National Identification Number (NIN)
- You must have a birth certificate or age declaration
- You must provide two recent passport photographs
- You must have a guarantor who is a Nigerian citizen
- You must pay the application fee
Steps to Obtain a Nigerian Passport
Step 1: Get your National Identification Number (NIN)
The National Identification Number (NIN) is a unique number assigned to every Nigerian citizen by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC). To get your NIN, visit any NIMC enrollment center with your birth certificate or age declaration and a valid means of identification such as a driver's license or voter's card.
Step 2: Complete the Online Application Form
Visit the Nigerian Immigration Service website and complete the online application form. You will be required to provide personal information, contact details, and other relevant information.
Step 3: Pay the Passport Application Fee
The passport application fee varies depending on the type of passport you are applying for and your location. To pay the fee, visit the Nigerian Immigration Service website and follow the instructions.
Step 4: Book an Appointment
After paying the application fee, you will be required to book an appointment for biometric data capture. Choose a convenient date and time and print out the appointment slip.
Step 5: Go for Biometric Data Capture
On the day of your appointment, go to the Nigerian Immigration Service office with your appointment slip and required documents. Your biometric data, which includes your fingerprints and photograph, will be captured.
Step 6: Collect Your Passport
After your biometric data has been captured and your application has been processed, you will receive a notification to come and collect your passport. Go to the Nigerian Immigration Service office with your notification and other documents such as your old passport (if you had one), and collect your new passport.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Can I use my old passport to apply for a new one?
No. You will need to provide your old passport if it is still valid, but you cannot use it to apply for a new one. -
How long does it take to process a Nigerian passport application?
The processing time varies depending on your location and the type of passport you are applying for. It can take between 24 hours to 10 working days. -
What happens if I lose my Nigerian passport?
If you lose your Nigerian passport, you should report it to the nearest Nigerian embassy or consulate and apply for a new one. -
Can I apply for a Nigerian passport if I am not a Nigerian citizen?
No. Only Nigerian citizens are eligible to apply for a Nigerian passport. -
How can I renew my Nigerian passport?
To renew your Nigerian passport, follow the same steps as applying for a new one but select the passport renewal option on the Nigerian Immigration Service website.
Conclusion
Now that you know the steps required to obtain a Nigerian passport, you can begin the application process. Remember to ensure you meet all the requirements, complete the online application form, pay the application fee, book an appointment, go for biometric data capture, and collect your passport. With this guide, you can obtain your Nigerian passport with ease.
