Do you dream of travelling the world? Whether you're planning a trip to Europe, Asia, or the Americas, you'll need a valid passport to get there. If you're a Nigerian citizen, you'll need to apply for an international passport from the Nigerian Immigration Service.
The requirements for an international passport in Nigeria may vary depending on your age and whether you're applying for a first-time passport or a renewal. In this article, we'll walk you through the steps involved in applying for an international passport in Nigeria. We'll also provide a list of the required documents and information.
So, whether you're a first-time applicant or a renewal applicant, read on to learn everything you need to know about the requirements for an international passport in Nigeria.
What are the Different Types of Nigerian Passports?
In Nigeria, there exist five distinct types of passports that cater to various categories of individuals. It is crucial to identify the appropriate passport category you belong to before applying for one. Here are the different types of Nigerian passports:
1. Standard Passport:
The standard Nigerian passport, recognizable by its green cover, is an essential travel document available to all Nigerian nationals. It serves as a means of identification for Nigerians travelling abroad.
2. Diplomatic Passport:
The diplomatic passport is exclusively reserved for high-ranking government officials, government ambassadors, and other key personnel. Individuals eligible for this type of passport include the President, Vice President, Governors, Senators, and other officials of significant stature. The diplomatic passport is easily identifiable by its distinct red cover.
3. Official Passport:
The official passport is designated for government officials such as Ministers, Governors, Permanent Secretaries, and the Secretary-General of the Federation. It is a document that facilitates official travel and represents the bearer's affiliation with the Nigerian government. The official passport stands out with its distinctive blue cover.
4. Seaman's Passport:
The seaman's passport caters to individuals employed in maritime occupations, specifically those who work at sea. This type of passport is primarily issued to sailors and other maritime personnel. It is easily recognisable by its maroon cover.
5. Pilgrim Passport:
The Nigerian Immigration Services issues the pilgrim passport to Nigerian citizens embarking on religious pilgrimages to sacred destinations such as Jerusalem and Mecca. Due to security considerations, the pilgrim passport does not have a fixed cover colour. Instead, it may vary to ensure the document's integrity and safety.
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What are the General Requirements For an International Passport in Nigeria?
The international passport serves as an official travel document and provides identification and proof of citizenship. To acquire an international passport in Nigeria, there are certain requirements that applicants must fulfil, and these requirements vary, depending on whether it is a first-time passport or a renewal.
First-Time Passport Applicants
The requirements for first-time passport applicants are as follows:
- A completed passport application form
- A recent passport-style photograph
- A copy of your National Identification Number (NIN)
- A copy of your birth certificate
- A letter of consent from your parents or guardian (if you are under 18 years old)
- Payment of N5,000 for the passport application fee
Renewal Passport Applicants
The requirements for renewal passport applicants are as follows:
- A completed passport application form
- A recent passport-style photograph
- A copy of your old passport
- Payment of N2,000 for the passport application fee
Steps Needed in Applying for an International Passport in Nigeria
To apply for an international passport in Nigeria, there are certain steps one must take.
- Go to the Nigerian Immigration Service website and download the passport application form.
- Fill out the application form and sign it.
- Attach a recent passport-style photograph to the application form.
- Attach a copy of your National Identification Number (NIN) to the application form.
- Attach a copy of your birth certificate to the application form.
- If you are under 18 years old, you will need to attach a letter of consent from your parents or guardian to the application form.
- Pay the passport application fee.
- Submit the application form and supporting documents to the Nigerian Immigration Service.
Every applicant is issued an application ID and reference number in the process. Once payment is made, a Validation Number is given. This will be used to confirm payment and set an interview date.
How Much Does an International Passport Cost in Nigeria?
The price of obtaining an international passport in Nigeria is subject to several factors, including the applicant's age and the type of passport booklet required. There’s the 32 paged booklet and the 64 paged booklet.
To streamline the application process for an international passport, payment is conducted online, with the option to pay in either Nigerian Naira or US dollars.
The specific cost of a new international passport in Nigeria can be found on the passport guideline page of the official website of the Nigeria Immigration Services. This reliable source provides up-to-date information regarding the applicable fees. It is crucial to review this page to ascertain the current cost before initiating the application process.
What is the Processing Time for International Passports in Nigeria?
The processing time for an international passport in Nigeria is typically 3 weeks for a renewal of the passport and 6 weeks for a fresh application. However, the processing time may be longer during peak periods, such as the summer travel season.
Where Can I Apply for an International Passport?
You can apply for an international passport at any of the following locations:
- The Nigerian Immigration Service Headquarters in Abuja
- Any of the State Command Headquarters of the Nigerian Immigration Service
- Any of the Passport Offices of the Nigerian Immigration Service
Conclusion
In conclusion, obtaining an international passport in Nigeria requires adherence to specific requirements set by the Nigeria Immigration Services. This crucial travel document allows Nigerian citizens to explore the world and engage in international endeavours.
To successfully obtain an international passport, applicants must meet the stipulated criteria, which may include providing necessary documents such as a birth certificate, proof of Nigerian citizenship, and a valid identification card. Additionally, applicants are required to complete the application form accurately and pay the prescribed fee.
It is important to note that the specific requirements may evolve over time, so it is advisable to consult the official website of the Nigeria Immigration Services for the most up-to-date information.
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