07 Jan 2025
Living abroad as a Nigerian national comes with its own responsibilities, and keeping your passport up to date is one of the most crucial. Whether you need it for travel, identification, or legal purposes, renewing your Nigerian passport in the UK can feel overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time.
This guide simplifies the process by providing step-by-step instructions for navigating everything from the online application to the in-person appointment. We'll also address common challenges to send money, issues with regard to missing documents, unexpected fees, and special cases like applications for minors or name changes. Let’s get started!
Renewing your passport begins online, which is critical to ensure the rest of the process goes smoothly. Here’s what you need to do:
Visit the Nigerian Immigration Service Portal and select “Apply for Passport Renewal.” This portal is your starting point for the entire process.
If you already have an account, simply log in. If not, register using the “OpenID” option and create your profile.
Fill out the form carefully, providing accurate personal details like your UK address, next of kin, height, and eye color. Double-check for errors—mistakes can delay your application.
Pay the application fee online. If the name on your card does not match the applicant's name, register the card in the “Manage Credit Card” section of the Innovate1 website. Once payment is confirmed, download and print your completed application form. Be sure to note your unique Application ID and Reference Number, as you’ll need these later.
After completing the online application, the next step is an in-person appointment at the Nigerian High Commission in London. Here’s how to prepare:
You can schedule your appointment on the Nigerian High Commission website. Use your Application ID and Reference Number to book your slot.
Bring the following documents with you to your appointment:
The additional requirements include:
* The child’s birth certificate
* Copies of the parent's passport data pages (at least one parent must hold a Nigerian
passport)
* A signed consent letter from both parents or proof of sole custody
* A death certificate if one parent is deceased
The name changes are:
* Marriage-related: Marriage certificate, a signed consent letter from the husband, and his passport data page
* Divorce-related: Divorce certificate and proof of maiden name from the previous passport
On the day of your appointment, aim to arrive earlier than your scheduled time. For some applications, processing is handled on a first-come, first-served basis.
The costs, as well as timelines, include:
Fees may vary based on age, passport type, number of pages (32 or 64), and validity period (5 or 10 years).
The typical processing time for a new passport is up to 3 weeks, and the passport will be delivered to your residence via post.
Following are some of the key considerations to bear in mind:
If the card used for payment does not match the applicant's name, register it through the Innovate1 website to avoid issues during the payment process.
Any document not in English must be accompanied by a certified translation, which must be signed, stamped, and certified by a registered translator.
If you cannot wait for the standard processing time, you can apply for an emergency travel certificate. This is especially useful for urgent travel needs.
Renewing your Nigerian passport in the UK doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following this step-by-step guide, you can navigate the process with ease. Remember to double-check your application for accuracy, prepare all required documents, and book your appointment early to avoid delays. Just as you would research the most efficient and cost-effective money transfer options when sending funds abroad, take the time to understand the passport renewal process.
Bookmark this guide for future reference, and if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance. Your passport is your gateway to opportunities—keep it up to date and ready for your next adventure!
You begin by accessing the Nigerian Immigration Service Portal and submitting an online application.
You'll need your original Nigerian passport, the completed application form, your NIN, appointment confirmation, a £20 postal order, and a Royal Mail C4 envelope.
For minors, you'll need their birth certificate, copies of both parents' passport data pages, and a signed consent letter from both parents or proof of sole custody.
The standard renewal fee is £20. Additional fees may apply for lost, misplaced, or damaged passports, emergency travel certificates, and depending on the passport type and validity.
The typical processing time is up to 3 weeks, and the passport will be delivered to your residence via post.
