Nigerian Passport Renewal Abroad: NIS Contactless System Cuts Embassy Visits

Nigerians in the diaspora can now renew their passports without stepping into an embassy, thanks to the Nigerian Immigration Service’s contactless passport application system. The process lets eligible applicants verify identity with their National Identification Number (NIN) and date of birth, then submit biometrics remotely.

The new system removes the stress, travel costs and time linked to physical biometric enrolment for many Nigerians living far from diplomatic missions. Applicants can finish most of the renewal online and track their applications through the passport portal or NRS mobile app.

How the contactless renewal works

To start, visit the official Nigerian Immigration Service passport portal and select “Apply from Outside Nigeria.” Then choose “Apply for Renewal or Reissue” and create an account or log into an existing one.

Applicants verify their identity using their NIN and date of birth. After that, they complete the application form, pick their preferred processing embassy or high commission, and upload required documents. Paying the applicable passport fee generates an application ID and reference number, which should be kept safe for later steps.

Applicants then choose between a physical appointment or a contactless appointment. Those eligible for the contactless option can select “Opt in for Contactless” under the application status or appointment section. They will be directed to download the NRS mobile app and log in or create an account.

Submitting biometrics remotely

Inside the app, select “Passport Application Services” and then “Passport Biometric Enrolment.” Enter the application ID and reference number to confirm eligibility. If approved, the app guides the applicant through capturing a facial image and fingerprints before submitting the biometric information for review.

Once the biometrics are successfully reviewed and the applicant is confirmed eligible, the contactless service fee becomes payable. Applicants who do not qualify for contactless enrolment can return to the passport portal and schedule a physical appointment at their selected embassy or high commission.

Physical appointment and tracking

For physical appointments, applicants must print their application form and retrieve their current national passport. Both documents go into a self-addressed return envelope, which is sent to the selected processing mission according to the application instructions.

Tracking begins about two weeks after submission. Applicants can check their status through the passport tracking portal or the NRS mobile app.

For Nigerians abroad who qualify, the contactless system cuts the cost and inconvenience of repeated embassy trips. It makes passport renewal faster and more predictable, removing a common source of frustration for the diaspora.