An international passport is a key travel document that allows Nigerian citizens to travel outside Nigeria. If you plan to visit other countries for tourism, work, study, or business, you must meet the requirements for international passport set by the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) and other Nigerian missions abroad. This guide explains the requirements clearly, step by step.
What Is an International Passport in Nigeria?
An international passport is an official travel document issued by the Nigerian government. It proves your identity and citizenship. It also lets you enter other countries, subject to their visa rules. The most common passport issued to ordinary citizens is the standard e-passport, which contains biometric data and is compliant with international standards.
Also read: How Much is International Passport in Nigeria | Full Guide
Who Is Eligible for a Nigerian International Passport?
To apply for an international passport in Nigeria, you must:
- Be a Nigerian citizen by birth, descent, adoption, registration, or naturalization.
- Have a National Identification Number (NIN) issued by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC).
Without these basic requirements, you cannot begin the passport application. The NIN links your identity records with the passport application to prevent identity fraud.
Basic Requirements for First-Time Applicants
Below are the core requirements for international passport applications in Nigeria:
1. Completed Passport Application Form
You must fill out the passport application online on the official Nigeria Immigration Service portal. After completing the form, you should print it out or save an electronic copy as required.
2. National Identification Number (NIN)
The NIN is mandatory for every applicant. You must enter your NIN on the application and ensure all details (name, date of birth) match your official records.
3. Birth Certificate or Age Evidence
You must provide your birth certificate. If this is not available, you should present a court-issued declaration of age or other official evidence of age.
4. Passport-Sized Photographs
You must upload or submit recent passport photographs that follow ICAO standards:
- White background
- Clear view of the face and ears
- Adequate brightness and contrast
Also read: Airports in Nigeria 2026 | All You Need to Know
5. Proof of Payment
You must show a passport payment slip and acknowledgement slip generated after completed online payment.
6. Guarantor Information (Where Required)
Some categories require a completed guarantor form with details and passport data of a Nigerian guarantor. This is often more common for special passport types or as requested by certain missions.
Additional Requirements Based on Applicant Category
The basic requirements remain mostly the same, but there are extra documents you must provide in certain situations.
Applicants Under 18 Years (Minors)
Minors must submit:
- Birth certificate showing parent details.
- Letter of consent signed by parents or legal guardians.
- Photocopies of parents’ passport data pages (at least one parent must be Nigerian).
Married Applicants with Name Change
If your name has changed due to marriage:
- Bring your marriage certificate or affidavit.
- Ensure your name on the passport application matches your NIN and other identity documents.
Applicants Applying Abroad
If you are outside Nigeria, you will still use the NIS portal online. After that, you must:
- Print the application form and payment slip.
- Schedule an appointment at the nearest Nigerian embassy or consulate for biometric data capture (fingerprints and photo).
Embassies may have additional local requirements such as self-addressed return envelopes or postal money orders for administrative fees. These are not universal but are specific to the mission abroad.
Also read: 5 Top Security Tips for Choosing the Right Airline in Nigeria 2025
Special or Non-Standard Passport Situations
Renewal of Passport
For renewal, you need:
- Printed completed application form.
- Current (expired or nearly expired) passport data page.
- Payment slip and acknowledgement slip.
- In some consulates, you also present the old passport booklet.
Lost or Stolen Passport
When a passport is lost or stolen, specific additional documents such as a police report in some missions may be required before a replacement passport can be issued.
Steps in the Passport Application Process
To complete the requirements for international passport in Nigeria, follow these general steps:
1. Visit the NIS Passport Portal Online
Start the process by visiting the official passport application portal. All applications for Nigerian passports begin online.
2. Complete the Application Form
Ensure all fields are accurate. Errors can delay your application or rejection.
3. Upload Required Documents
You upload photos and supporting documents such as your birth certificate or age declaration during online application.
4. Pay for the Application
Make an online payment and print your payment receipt and acknowledgement slip.
Also read: History of Aviation in Nigeria
5. Book an Appointment
Select a date to visit your passport office or Nigerian mission abroad for biometric capture. This includes fingerprints and face capture. All applicants must attend in person.
6. Attend Biometric Capture
You must show up personally for biometric enrolment. After this, your passport will proceed to issuance.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To avoid delays:
- Don’t upload photos that don’t meet specifications.
- Do not use mismatched names between documents.
- Don’t skip the NIN verification step.
Following the requirements for international passport closely makes your application smooth and faster.
Conclusion
Applying for an international passport in Nigeria takes preparation. You must gather all required documents properly. These include your completed application form, NIN, birth certificate, passport photos, and proof of payment.
If you meet all the requirements, you can complete your application online and attend a biometric appointment for issuance. This process ensures your travel document is valid, secure, and accepted around the world.
By understanding the requirements for international passport, you reduce delays and make your journey abroad easier and more predictable.
Stay connected to this blog for more useful day-to-day updates. Follow us on X (formerly Twitter) @Logic_sss for more.
