Nigerians in Diaspora; Three Easy Steps to Fast-track your Passport Renewal Process this December
The only thing more annoying than an expired or soon-to-expire Nigerian passport is the time and energy required to renew it. If you’re looking for how to fast-track that process this holiday season, then this is for you! Thankfully, the Nigerian Immigrations Service has made it super easy to get a new passport in just two weeks through the newly-launched special diaspora fast-track passport renewal programme.
This ongoing program will run from the 12th of December 2022 to the 31st of January 2023 — spanning the entire period of stay during the yuletide season for Nigerians returning from abroad.
What’s more? You get to travel to Nigeria even if your passport is expired and renew it at no extra-cost once you arrive.
So, if you’re looking to renew your Nigerian passport during your visit this Christmas season, here’s how:
Step 1 – Register online through the online registration portal
Log in to the passport application portal at https://www.passport.immigration.gov.ng and apply online. The application process includes making payment for your preferred passport type via approved payment platforms.
Also, note that you will need your National Identification Number (NIN) for your passport application. You are also to ensure that your personal information in the passport application matches the information on the NIN and vice versa; otherwise, the process cannot be completed.
Step 2- Visit the Diaspora Desk at any international airport in Nigeria
On arrival into Nigeria via any of the international airports in Lagos, Abuja, Kano, Enugu and Port Harcourt, locate the diaspora desk and provide your application details. You will then be given a fast-track letter (this letter overrides the date on your online application, so no panicking) to any passport office of your choice.
Step 3 – Capture Your biometric information
Visit your preferred passport office between Monday and Wednesday. Once you get there, your biometrics, including your photo and fingerprints, will be captured, and your passport will be produced and ready in two weeks.
If you have any enquiries or complaints concerning the passport renewal process, tweet at @nigimmigration or send an email to – expiredppt@immigration.gov.ng.
The special diaspora fast-track passport renewal programme is an initiative of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) and the Ministry of Interior. This initiative is supported by all aviation authorities, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Heads of Foreign Missions, Immigration Attaches, all Airport Controllers and local and international airline operators.