Nigerian Contactless Passport Application: Easy Use of the NIS App

How to: The Nigerian Contactless Passport Application Abroad Using the NIS Mobile App

Let’s face it, we all know renewing a Nigerian passport while abroad feels like a mission impossible sometimes. Long queues, tight embassy schedules, and the stress of biometric appointments are just a few of the hurdles. The Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) is easing the burden with the launch of its Nigerian Contactless Passport Application System, and trust me, it’s a game-changer.

Referencing their official tweet here, the NIS announced the rollout of this contactless service, which allows eligible Nigerians abroad to renew their passports completely online and yes, without stepping foot into an embassy for biometrics.

What is the Nigerian Contactless Passport Application System?

Simply put, it’s an all-online passport renewal system. You complete your application, upload your details, verify your identity, and submit everything, all of these through your phone. This system is currently open to Nigerians in countries like the UK, the US, Canada, Ireland, Mexico, Jamaica, Brazil, and parts of Europe and Asia. It’s expected to hit Australia and Nigeria itself later.

But here’s the catch: it’s only available to eligible applicants, meaning you must already have a Nigerian passport and a valid National Identification Number (NIN). If it’s your first time applying, you’ll still need to visit a passport centre for biometrics.

How to Use the NIS Mobile App for Your Nigerian Contactless Passport Application

Let’s walk through the process step-by-step:

1. Download the App: Search “NIS Mobile App” on the Google Play Store. (iOS version is on the way.) 
2. Create a Profile: Sign up using a valid email and set up your account. 
3. Start Your Application: Head to the passport application section and select “self-enrolment”. 
4. Make Payment: Once you’ve filled in your details, pay and keep note of your Application ID and Reference Number. 
5. Choose Contactless Biometric Option: If eligible, you’ll see an option to enrol your biometrics remotely. 
6. Verify Eligibility: Plug in your Application ID and Reference Number to confirm. 
7. If Not Eligible: Book a physical appointment through the portal. 
8. Mail in Your Current Passport: Send it to the designated embassy with a prepaid, self-addressed return envelope. 
9. Wait for Delivery: Your new passport will be mailed directly to you. 

With the rollout of this service bringing ease to the lives of Nigerians in the diaspora. It is an update that eases the burden of citizens who already juggle work, family and more. No more rushing to embassies or consulates or taking forever to get your passport renewed, you can now easily get it done right from your phone.

And yes, in case you need help navigating it all, there’s a full YouTube tutorial uploaded by the Nigerian Yorkshire Community that breaks it down even further.

If you’ve been postponing your passport renewal because of the usual wahala, this might just be your sign to get it done,