New digital system allows eligible Nigerians abroad to apply, submit biometrics and track passport applications remotely
ABUJA — Nigerians living abroad can now renew their international passports without making the traditional trip to a Nigerian embassy or consulate, following the introduction of the Contactless Passport Application System.
The initiative represents a major shift in Nigeria’s passport administration, allowing eligible citizens in the diaspora to complete key stages of the renewal process remotely.
Under the system, applicants can begin their passport application online, opt into the Contactless Passport service where eligible, submit the required information and complete biometric capture remotely for review.
The process is designed to eliminate one of the biggest challenges Nigerians abroad have faced when renewing their passports — travelling long distances, sometimes across states or provinces, simply to appear physically at an embassy, high commission or consulate for biometric enrolment.
Passport Renewal From Home
With the Contactless Passport Application System, eligible Nigerians can complete much of the process from wherever they live.
Applicants begin by submitting their passport application through the designated official platform. During the process, eligible users can select the Contactless option and follow the instructions for completing and submitting their biometrics.
The biometric information is then submitted for review as part of the passport renewal process. Applicants can also monitor the progress of their applications rather than repeatedly visiting diplomatic missions for updates.
For Nigerians scattered across large countries where the nearest Nigerian diplomatic mission may be hundreds or even thousands of kilometres away, the system could significantly reduce the time and expense associated with passport renewal.
Not Everyone will Qualify
The contactless service, however, does not mean that every passport applicant will automatically be able to complete the entire process remotely.
Applicants who are not eligible for the Contactless option will be redirected to schedule a physical appointment, where they can complete the required procedures in person.
This means applicants should follow the instructions provided during the application process rather than assume that a physical appearance is no longer required in every case.
The system is particularly significant for Nigerians in the diaspora, many of whom have historically faced difficulties securing appointments, travelling to diplomatic missions and completing biometric requirements while juggling work, family and other responsibilities.
Warning Against Fake Passport Agents
As more passport services move online, applicants are also being urged to exercise caution and avoid unofficial websites, middlemen and individuals claiming they can guarantee or accelerate passport applications.
Nigerians seeking to renew their passports should use only official government-approved channels and carefully verify the platform they are using before submitting personal information, biometric data or making payments.
Passport information and biometric details are highly sensitive, making it particularly important for applicants to avoid suspicious links circulated through social media, messaging platforms or unsolicited emails.
For eligible Nigerians abroad, the Contactless Passport Application System could mark the beginning of a dramatically simpler passport renewal experience — turning what once required a journey to an embassy or consulate into a process that can largely be completed from home.
For millions of Nigerians in the diaspora, the message is simple: passport renewal is going digital, and for those who qualify, the embassy visit may no longer be necessary.
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