The Ministry of Interior will launch the Automated Passport Application today, with the goal of reducing human contact in passport acquisition to the barest minimum.
According to the Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the new system will allow users to upload passport images and other supporting documents from the comfort of their homes.
He stated that if fully automated, Nigerians will only visit immigration facilities for fingerprint or biometric purposes.
Before the launch, here are some general tips for applying for passports using the new automated system.
Note that meeting the eligibility criteria, which are mentioned below, is the most crucial basic prerequisite.
1. Nigerian citizenship
2. Possession of the National Identification Number
3. Compliance with stringent ICAO standards for passport photographs
4. Essential breeder documents such as the birth certificate and local government certificate of indigeneship
Here is how to apply:
1. Accessing the Online Portal:
Begin by visiting https://passport.immigration.gov.ng/ and enter your NIN. The system will auto-fill your data from the National Identity Management Commission.
2. Completing Data Fields:
Fill in all necessary data fields as prompted, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
3. Document Submission:
Upload your passport photo and other required breeder documents securely onto the platform.
4. Immigration Office Visit:
Head to an immigration office for biometric capture. This step ensures the necessary physical verification and identity confirmation.
5. Passport Collection:
Expect your passport to be ready for collection within two weeks, marking the successful completion of the application process.
Also for passport renewals, applicants must have their old passport number readily available for uploading during the application.
The ministry has stated that following these outlined steps meticulously will facilitate an easy and efficient application process for a passport.