How to Apply for International Passport in Nigeria (2026 Fast & Easy Steps)
How to Apply for international Passport in Nigeria is a must for anyone wishing to travel abroad for business, education, or vacation. To strengthen service delivery and security, the Federal Government increased passport costs in September 2025 and imposed additional restrictions.
This guide covers the updated charges, requirements, and step-by-step process on how to apply for international passport in Nigeria, so whether you’re applying for the first time or renewing, you can avoid delays and get through the process quickly.
How Long does it take to get an International Passport in Nigeria?
The time it takes for a Nigerian passport to be ready after capture is relative. This is because the quantity of applications impacts how quickly an individual can obtain an international passport in Nigeria after applying.
Furthermore, the passport application centre can impact how quickly you might receive your international passport in Nigeria. This is because passport offices in big cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt often receive a higher volume of applications than passport offices in smaller states.
As a result, it is sometimes preferable to apply through passport offices in smaller states with a lower population density and metropolitan concentration.
In Nigeria, there is also a provision for expedited application and collection of international passports. This is primarily for persons on medical trips or in other crises.
However, in states with high passport application demand, like Lagos, Abuja, Anambra, and Rivers State, it typically takes around two and a half months for a passport to be ready after application.
However, states with fewer applications would take roughly a month and a half to have their passports ready for pickup in Nigeria. In conclusion, based on the standard, obtaining an international passport in Nigeria usually requires:
- Express applications: About 2 weeks (14 days).
- Standard applications: Generally between 3 and 6 weeks.
These time frames can vary depending on the application method and other considerations.
How Much is International Passport in Nigeria 2025?
The Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) produces a variety of passports, although the Standard Passport (green cover) is the most prevalent for foreign travel. It’s available in the following options:
| Passport Type | Validity | Who Can Apply | Fee (as of Sept 2025) |
| 32-Page Passport | 5 years | Adults & Minors | ₦100,000 |
| 64-Page Passport | 5 years | Frequent Travelers | ₦100,000* (varies; check NIS portal) |
| 64-Page Passport | 10 years | Adults (18+) only | ₦200,000 |
The NIS stated that the new pricing bands primarily affect the 32-page (5-year) and 64-page (10-year) passports. Always confirm on the official webpage.
Diplomatic (red) and official (blue) passports are only awarded to government personnel and do not require the same application or fees.
How to Apply for International Passport in Nigeria: REQUIREMENTS
When applying for a Nigerian international passport, you need to present the following documents:
- National Identification Number (NIN): Required for all applicants.
- Birth certificate or age declaration obtained from the National Population Commission (NPC) or court affidavit.
- Passport pictures: Two recent passport-sized pictures on a white backdrop.
- Completed Application Form: Submitted online using the NIS portal.
- Proof of Payment: Official receipt for application fee.
- Acknowledgement Slip: Created after completing the online form.
- Minors (under the age of 18) must provide a birth certificate, a letter of authorisation from their parents/guardians, and the data page from their passport.
- Married women should provide their marriage certificate or an affidavit to change their name (if appropriate).
- Senior citizens require proof of age (birth certificate or age declaration).
How to Apply for International Passport in Nigeria Online
To apply for an international passport in Nigeria, you must first fulfil the minimum conditions. Make sure that you are a Nigerian citizen, have all of the necessary paperwork, and have access to a computer with an internet connection. Once you have completed the conditions, you can begin your application on the Nigeria Immigration Service web portal.
To begin your application, go to the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) passport portal and carefully complete the online form, upload your papers, and pay the required costs. Then, make an appointment with your nearest NIS passport office for biometric capture. If everything goes well, you should have your new passport within two weeks of your appointment.
- Visit the Nigeria Immigration Service website.
- If you are a fresh candidate, click “Apply for Fresh Passport”.
- If you are in Nigeria, click “Continue”. If you are not in Nigeria, select “Apply from outside Nigeria”.
- To have your data from the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) automatically filled in, enter your National Identification Number (NIN).
- Make sure you fill out all of the required information areas.
- Upload a photo of your passport and any accompanying documents.
- Visit your nearest immigration office to get your biometrics taken.
Following these procedures attentively will result in a seamless application experience.
How to Renew Your Nigerian Passport
The renewal process is comparable to applying for a new one.
- Log in to the NIS Portal.
- Choose “Passport Renewal”.
- Fill up the details from your current passport.
- Make a payment based on the new pricing structure.
- Schedule a biometric capture at your nearest NIS office.
- Submit an old passport for verification.
- Collect your new passport once it has been processed.
Tips for Avoiding Errors and Speeding Up Processing
To acquire your passport as quickly as possible, use these guidelines to minimise errors and speed up the process:
- Double-check that all of the information you give in the online application form is completely accurate. Any inaccuracies in your official documentation can result in delays.
- Make sure you upload clear copies of all essential supporting papers. Illegible or incomplete paperwork will be rejected, putting you back at square one.
Pay the passport fees on time. Failure to pay on time will render your application void. - Choose a biometric capture appointment date that works best for your schedule.
- The earlier you book, the more dates you can choose from. Also, avoid peak periods such as Monday morning or Friday afternoon. The entire process takes about 15 minutes, so try to go during off-peak hours for a faster experience.
- Check to see if you need to submit any other papers. If you have legally changed your name, you must produce an official name change document. The list of supplementary documents required for other unusual instances is available on the passport office website.
- Arrive on time for your biometrics appointment. Arrive at least 30 minutes before your planned appointment. Late entrants risk having their appointments rescheduled, which means starting the application procedure all over again.
Following these guidelines will put you on the fast track to obtaining your Nigerian passport as soon and painlessly as possible. With some early planning and patience, you’ll have your passport in hand in no time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the documents required for a Nigerian international passport?
- National Identification Number (NIN)
- Birth certificate or age declaration obtained from the National Population Commission (NPC) or court affidavit.
- Passport pictures: Two recent passport-sized pictures on a white backdrop.
- Completed Application Form: Submitted online using the NIS portal.
- Proof of Payment.
Do I need NIN for an international passport?
Yes. NIN is needed for international passport applications.
How can I apply for an international passport online?
To apply for an international passport online in Nigeria, visit the NIS Portal and fill out the form.
Conclusion
Applying for an international passport in Nigeria in 2025 requires planning and strict compliance with the updated requirements. With the new fees of ₦100,000 and ₦200,000, it is more important than ever to prepare your documents, apply online early, and attend your biometric capture promptly. By following this guide, you can avoid common mistakes and ensure a smoother passport application or renewal process.
