The Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) is set to introduce a contactless passport renewal system in Europe, with the United Kingdom serving as the coordinating centre. The initiative, scheduled for launch on February 7, will allow Nigerians in the diaspora to renew their passports online without the need to visit physical offices.
The Comptroller General of the NIS, Kemi Nandap, announced this development during a courtesy visit to the Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, in Abuja.
According to a statement by NiDCOM spokesperson Abdur-Rahman Balogun, the initiative aims to simplify the passport renewal process, saving time and reducing travel costs for Nigerians abroad. However, it will only apply to renewals and will not be available for first-time applicants or minors.
Nandap explained that Nigerians living abroad can initiate the renewal process up to a year before their passport’s expiration.
“This initiative, set for launch on February 7, 2025, will enable Nigerians in the diaspora to apply for and renew their passports online from the comfort of their homes,” she stated.
She also commended NiDCOM for raising awareness about programs that benefit Nigerians living abroad and reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to improving passport processing under President Bola Tinubu’s directive.
Additionally, she revealed that the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has approved a new passport processing facility in New York to address backlogs, with plans to open more offices in the U.S. and other countries.
NiDCOM Chairman Abike Dabiri-Erewa welcomed the development, describing it as a major step toward a more efficient and secure passport processing system for Nigerians overseas.
“The launch of the contactless passport application solution in Europe is a significant step towards efficient, secure, and convenient travel document management for Nigerians in the diaspora. NiDCOM will continue to support, monitor, and collaborate with the NIS to ensure the success of this initiative,” she stated.
The contactless passport renewal system was first introduced in Canada, where it received positive feedback from Nigerians.
Join Our Telegram Channel For Instant Notification
