If you are a Nigerian living in the United Kingdom and your passport is due for renewal, it is important to note that the process has changed significantly. Walk-in applications are no longer permitted at the Nigerian High Commission in London. All applicants must now complete their application online and follow the contactless renewal process strictly.

This guide breaks down the entire Nigerian passport renewal process in the UK, step by step, using the most recent updates to help you avoid costly mistakes and unnecessary delays.

Step 1: Start Your Application on the Official NIS Passport Portal

Begin by visiting the official Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) international passport portal: passportintl.immigration.gov.ng
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What to do:

• Create an account on the portal

• Select “Apply for Renew / Re-issue”

• Enter your National Identification Number (NIN) and Date of Birth (DOB)

Once submitted, your personal details (including gender and marital status) should automatically appear.
Important: Ensure that all details exactly match your NIN record. Any spelling errors or inconsistencies may require corrections later, which can be stressful and time-consuming.

Step 2: Enter Your Current Passport Details

Next, you will be required to:

• Input your current passport number (the one being renewed)

Enter the date of birth as shown on the old passport

Again, ensure these details match what is on your NIN record.

Step 3: Select Passport Type, Validity, and Processing Location

When prompted, choose the following options (recommended for most applicants):

• Processing Country: United Kingdom
  

• Processing Embassy: London

• Booklet Type: 64 pages (recommended)

• Validity: 10 years (recommended)

Cost Breakdown (subject to exchange rates):

1. Passport booklet: $230

1. Contactless processing fee: $100

1. Total: $330 (approximately £259)

Payment is completed online via the official platform.

Step 4: Upload Passport Photograph and Personal Information

You will need to upload a coloured passport-size photograph. This image will appear on your new passport, so ensure it meets the required standards.

To avoid rejection, you can test your photo using the NIS image compliance tool: passportintl.immigration.gov.ng/image-compliance

You will also be required to fill in:

• UK residential address

• Nigerian address

• State of origin

• Next of kin details

Step 5: Upload Required Supporting Documents

The portal will prompt you to upload scanned copies of the following documents:

• Birth Certificate

• Local Government Certificate of Origin

• Bio-data page of your old passport

• Marriage certificate (only if your name has changed)

Before submitting, carefully review all information for accuracy.

Once submitted, an Application ID and Reference Number will be generated.
Save these details, as they are essential for tracking your application.

Step 6: Complete Contactless Biometric Capture (Android most preferred)

For contactless passport renewal:

Preferably, Android version of the NIS mobile app currently supports biometric capture adequately

Fingerprints and facial biometrics must be completed through the app. Be prepared: this stage requires patience, as the app can be slow or experience technical issues - also ensure that your fingerprints has exposure of at least 60 - 70% so ut can scale through effortlessly.

After successful payment and biometric capture:

• Print the application summary page

• Print your payment receipt

Step 7: Prepare Postal Requirements at the Post Office

Before sending your documents, visit any UK Post Office and obtain the following:

Required items:

• Postal Order: £20 (+ £3 service charge), payable to Nigerian High Commission, London
  

• Two (2) Royal Mail Special Delivery envelopes

Addressing the envelopes:

• Envelope 1 (Outbound):
  Address to:
  Nigerian High Commission
  9 Northumberland Avenue
  London WC2N 5BX

• Envelope 2 (Return):
  Addressed to yourself (your full name and UK address)

Keep the tracking number safe

Step 8: Assemble and Send Your Documents

Include the following items in the envelope sent to the High Commission:

• Printed application summary page

• Payment receipt

• Old (expired or expiring) passport

• Postal order

• Special Delivery return envelope

Once everything is included, send the package via Royal Mail Special Delivery.

Step 9: Wait for Your New Passport

After submission:

Processing is typically completed within 24 hours. Your new passport is usually dispatched the next working day

Delivery is done via Royal Mail Special Delivery using your return envelope

Total Cost for Contactless Nigerian Passport Renewal (UK)

Here is a realistic breakdown of the overall cost:

• Passport renewal fee: £259.78

• Postal order (with charges): £22.50

• Two Special Delivery envelopes: £20.50

• Printing costs: £0.80

Estimated Total: £303.58

Final Tips for a Stress-Free Passport Renewal

• Double-check all spellings before submission
  

• Ensure NIN and passport details match exactly

• Use an Android device for contactless biometrics

• Keep all receipts and tracking numbers

• Be patient during the biometric stage

With proper preparation, renewing your Nigerian passport in the UK can be smooth and straightforward.
Image Credits: SK the Plug