How to Renew Your Expired Passport in Nigeria

Are you planning to travel overseas soon? You should ensure your Nigerian passport is valid and will stay that way for the duration of your trip. If your passport has expired or is close to expiring, you need to renew it, whether you’re in Nigeria or abroad. Renewing a Nigerian passport can seem complicated, but it can be a smooth process with the right information and preparation. Your passport is an important document that proves who you are and where you are from, which lets you travel between countries. That’s why it’s essential to keep it valid and up-to-date. So, whether you’re a frequent traveller or planning an upcoming trip, here are tips on how to renew your expired passport in Nigeria:

Nigerian Passport Renewal

Prior to renewing your Nigerian passport, you need to meet certain requirements. 

Your current passport:

• Is expired: This is the most common reason for passport renewal.

• Is nearing expiration: It’s advisable to renew before it expires to avoid last-minute rush.

• Has pages filled up: If your passport is full of stamps and visas, you may need a renewal.

• Has been damaged: If your passport is damaged beyond use, a renewal is necessary.

Note: You may need to renew your passport even if it has not expired or is not full. For example, if your name, address, or other personal information has changed, you may need to do so.

Steps to Renewing an Expired Passport in Nigeria

There are several steps you need to take in Nigeria to renew your expired passport, and each one is very important for making sure the process goes smoothly. 

Here’s a breakdown of the Nigerian passport renewal process:

• Gather required documents.

Get all the documents you need ready before you start the renewal process. These typically include your expired passport, a recent passport photograph, and supporting documents such as proof of identity and evidence of Nigerian citizenship.

• Complete the application form. 

Find the right application form at the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) website or get it from them. Carefully fill out the form, providing accurate and up-to-date information.

• Submit the application.

Once you have filled out the application form and gathered the necessary paperwork, take it to the NIS office or designated passport collection center that is closest to you.

• Payment of fees.

Pay the fees that are needed to renew your passport. The fees may be different for each type of passport and the amount of time needed for processing. Once you have made your payment, you will receive the acknowledgement slip and payment slip for further application processing. 

• Biometric capture

As part of the renewal process, you will need to have your fingerprints and digital photo taken at the NIS office or another center that has been designated.

• Tracking and collection

There will be a reference number or receipt sent to you after you send in your application. You can use this to see how your application is going and to get your new passport when it is ready.

If you want to avoid delays or problems in the renewal process, make sure you carefully follow these steps and give correct information.

Required documents for Nigerian passport renewal

You will need to bring the following with you to Nigeria to renew your expired passport:

• Expired/Expiring Passport: Your current, expired passport is an important document that you must show when you apply to renew your passport.

• Passport Photographs: You will need to bring 2 recent passport photos that are the right size, have the right background, and are of good quality. The photograph must be ICAO compliant.

• Proof of Identity: Acceptable forms of identification may include a valid National Identification Number (NIN), voter’s card, driver’s license, or birth certificate.

• Evidence of Nigerian Citizenship: Depending on your situation, you may need to show proof of your Nigerian citizenship in the form of a birth certificate, a certificate of naturalization, or other appropriate documents.

• Supporting Documents (if needed): Sometimes you may need extra proof, like a marriage certificate for changing your name, a police report for a lost or damaged passport, or a court affidavit.

• Online Applications: The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) Portal is the most convenient and recommended method. You can access the passport renewal form directly on the NIS website. Steps typically involve creating an account, filling out the form online, and printing it out for submission.

It is very important to make sure that all documents are valid, up-to-date, and easy to read. Giving missing or wrong information on your application could cause it to be delayed or even rejected. 

You should review your personal information before submission because it is your NIMC record. Make sure you give a valid email address so that we can contact you again.

If you’re outside Nigeria, you can contact the nearest Nigerian embassy or consulate to request a passport renewal form. They can provide you with the necessary form and guidance.

How long does it take to renew a passport in Nigeria?

The time it takes to renew your passport in Nigeria can vary depending on a number of factors. 

From standard to expedited services, the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) has different processing times. Standard processing usually takes between 6 and 8 weeks. For an extra fee, expedited services can be done in as little as 2 to 3 weeks.

During busy travel times or times of high demand, the NIS may receive more applications, which could make processing times longer. Incomplete or wrong applications may need more information or documentation, which can cause delays.

Processing times may be different depending on which NIS office or passport office you go to. This is because some passport offices may get more applications than others or have fewer employees.

For a faster and smoother process, you should apply to renew your passport a long time before you plan to travel. This will give the processing time and any possible delays plenty of time.

Passport renewal fees in Nigeria

The fees for renewing your passport in Nigeria vary depending on the type of passport and the processing time required. Here’s a breakdown of the typical fees:

1. Standard Passport Renewal Fee: The standard fee for renewing a regular Nigerian passport is N35,000 (now N50,000) for 32 pages for 5 years and N70,000 (now N100,000) for 64 pages for 10 years.

2. Expedited Passport Renewal Fee: If you require expedited processing, an additional fee will be charged, typically ranging from NGN 10,000 to NGN 20,000.

3. Additional Fees: In some cases, you may need to pay additional fees for services such as premium delivery, change of personal details, or replacement of lost or damaged passports.

It’s important to note that these fees are subject to change, and it’s advisable to check with the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) or their website for the most up-to-date information.

Make sure you start the process well before the dates you want to travel, give correct and complete information, and keep up with any changes or updates to the requirements. You can make sure the experience is easy and avoid delays or problems that are not necessary by doing this.