Contactless Biometric Passport Renewal: Update to the Easy Renewal System

Nigeria Immigration Service Rolls Out Contactless Biometric Passport Renewal for Diaspora Nigerians

The Nigerian Immigration Service has, in a press release, announced the next steps in the rollout of the contactless Biometric Passport Renewal Application System. If you’re a Nigerian living abroad and dreading the stress of travelling miles to a passport office just to renew your passport, there’s some good news for you. The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has just rolled out the next phase of its Contactless Biometric Passport Application System, and it’s as stress-free as it sounds.

Under the leadership of Comptroller General Kemi Nanna Nandap, the NIS is gradually expanding access to this digital passport renewal system across Nigerian missions overseas. This move is part of the agency’s commitment to make life easier for Nigerians in the diaspora, offering a much-needed shift and relief from the long queues and multiple visits we’ve grown used to.

What’s New With the Contactless Biometric Passport Renewal?

From 11th April 2025, Nigerians in the USA can now access this new system. Then, from 14th April 2025, the service extends to Mexico, Jamaica, and Brazil.

NIGERIA IMMIGRATION SERVICE ROLLS-OUT CONTACTLESS BIOMETRICS PASSPORT APPLICATION SYSTEM pic.twitter.com/vxYzCfpodX

— Nigeria Immigration Service (@nigimmigration) April 13, 2025

 The highlight of this innovation? You don’t need to visit a passport office for biometric capture if you’re simply renewing your passport. The NIS Mobile App, available now on the Google Play Store, allows users to complete the entire process from the comfort of their home. For iPhone users, don’t worry, the Apple Store version is on its way, and NIS has promised a more enhanced version of the app for both Android and ios users soon.

Where Else Is It Live?

The Contactless Biometric Passport Application System is already available in Canada, Europe, Asia, and some parts of the USA. With this new update, the rollout expands further, although it’s important to note that the service is not yet available in Australia or Nigeria itself. However, the NIS has assured the public that rollout dates for these locations will be announced in due time.

Why This Matters

For many Nigerians living abroad, renewing a passport has often meant flying to another state or even country just to get it done. The introduction of this system is a welcome respite that shows the NIS is listening to the diaspora community and is committed to leveraging technology for easier, more efficient service delivery.

Let’s be honest, for those of us juggling work, family, and everything in between, anything that saves time and reduces stress is a win. And this? This is a big one.