Five Things Nigerians in the UK Need to Know About Contactless Passport Renewal

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has introduced a new contactless passport renewal system for Nigerians living abroad. This means that if you’re in the UK or Ireland, you can now renew your Nigerian passport entirely online—no more long queues or stressful visits to the embassy! 🚀

Here’s what you need to know:

📌 1. What Is the Contactless Passport Renewal System?

The NIS has launched this new system to simplify passport renewal for Nigerians in the UK and Ireland. Instead of going to a passport office, you can now complete the process from your phone or computer.

This follows the successful rollout of the same system in Canada last year.

📌 2. Why Is This a Big Deal?

The Nigerian government says this system will:
✅ Reduce stress & waiting times – No need to travel for biometrics!
✅ Make passport renewal easier – Apply from the comfort of your home.
✅ Improve efficiency – Faster processing and delivery.
✅ Support digital transformation – Part of Nigeria’s move towards a tech-driven economy.

📌 3. How to Apply for a Contactless Passport Renewal

If you’re eligible, here’s how to apply:

🔹 Download the NIS Mobile App (available on Google Play Store) OR visit the NIS website when the service launches in your region.
🔹 Create a profile with your valid email.
🔹 Check your eligibility to ensure your passport qualifies for renewal.
🔹 Provide your details – National Identification Number (NIN) and passport number.
🔹 Upload required documents – NIN, birth certificate, local government certificate, etc.
🔹 Capture your biometrics – Use your mobile phone for fingerprint scans.
🔹 Make payment online and submit your application.

📦 Your renewed passport will be delivered to your registered address.

📌 4. Who Can Use This Service?

Not everyone is eligible for the contactless system. To qualify, you must:
✔️ Already have a Nigerian passport (this is for renewals only, not first-time applicants).
✔️ Have a valid National Identification Number (NIN).
✔️ Ensure your current passport is not damaged or expired for too long.

If your passport has expired for a long time or is damaged, you may still need to visit an immigration office.

📌 5. When Is This Happening?

📅 Launch Date in the UK & Ireland: February 7, 2025
📍 Other European countries will follow soon after.

The Nigerian Immigration Service has assured that this initiative is part of its commitment to making life easier for Nigerians abroad.

Final Thoughts 💭

This is great news for Nigerians in the UK who have struggled with long waits and complex procedures for passport renewal. With this new system, renewing your passport will be faster, easier, and 100% online.

Would you like a step-by-step guide when the service officially launches? Let us know in the comments! 👇

📢 Stay updated on Nigerian matters in the UK by following Naija UK Connect! 🇳🇬🇬🇧

Join Our WhatsApp Channel
Stay updated on the latest UK news, including education, health, job openings, and more for those living in the UK!
Join here: Naija UK Channel

Also, follow us on our social media channels for the latest updates and discussions:

• Twitter: @NaijaUKConnect
• Facebook: Naija UK Connect
• Instagram: @naijaukconnect