‘Travel 101’ – Passport Application Procedures for Travelling Abroad

Travelling abroad can seem like a daunting endeavour for many Nigerians, given the complexities and numerous requirements involved, especially in passport application procedures. Whether the purpose is education, leisure, or business, the process can be overwhelming. For individuals planning to leave the country, understanding the steps and procedures can alleviate some of the confusion and make the journey more manageable.

One of the initial steps in preparing for international travel is obtaining a passport, which can be either a straightforward or a challenging process depending on how it is approached. Every Nigerian citizen, regardless of age, is required to have a passport. This includes infants and children under sixteen, who must meet specific conditions to acquire their travel documents.

General Procedures for Passport Application

To begin the passport application process, you need to visit the Nigeria Immigration Portal. Here, you will locate and select the appropriate application form, which could be either the e-Passport Application Form or the MRP-Passport Application Form (the latter is not applicable in all missions). Once you have chosen the “Standard e-Passport” or “Official e-Passport” option, you can start the application by clicking on the ‘Start Application’ button.

The application form must be filled out accurately, and you should check the box that states ‘I ACCEPT FULL RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE INFORMATION PROVIDED IN THIS FORM’ before printing the completed form. After submitting the application, you will be directed to the ‘Applicant details page,’ where you will need to proceed to the online payment section.

Payment Process and Confirmation

The payment process allows you to choose between paying in Naira or US Dollars. If you opt to pay in Naira, you will need to select a payment method, such as bank payment, credit, or debit card. For bank payments, you will print a “Payment Acknowledgment Slip” and take it to a participating bank. Upon payment, you will receive a receipt with a “Validation Number,” which is essential for confirming your payment on the portal.

If you choose to pay via credit or debit card, you will be prompted to enter your card details and complete the transaction. A validation number will be generated after the payment, which you must store and use to confirm the payment. You can also print a receipt for your records.

After payment, using the validation number, you should return to the NIS portal to confirm your payment status. By entering your Passport Application ID and Reference No., and if necessary, the validation number, you will be directed to the “Applicant’s Details” page, where your interview date will be generated. It is crucial to print the receipt or acknowledgement slip, as these documents will be required for your interview.

Interview Preparation and Required Documents

For the interview, you must gather and present several documents, including a local government letter of identification, birth certificate or age declaration, and two recent passport-sized photographs. A guarantor’s form, sworn before a commissioner of oaths, magistrate, or high court judge, is also necessary. For minors under sixteen, a parent’s letter of consent is required. In cases of lost passports, a police report must be submitted. Married applicants should provide a marriage certificate. All these documents should be submitted along with your application to the passport office, embassy, or high commission.

Passport Fees and Additional Requirements

The fees for passport application vary depending on age and booklet type. Within Nigeria, a 32-page booklet costs 8,750 Naira for ages 0-17 and 60+, and 15,000 Naira for ages 18-59. A 64-page booklet costs 20,000 Naira across all age groups. For applications made at embassies, consulates, and high commissions, the fees in US Dollars are $65 for ages 0-17 and 60+ for a 32-page booklet, and $94 for ages 18-59. A 64-page booklet costs $125 for all age groups.

For official passports, additional documents such as a letter of introduction from the appropriate state or federal government ministry, a marriage certificate, a police report (if applicable), and a letter of appointment or last promotion must be submitted. Seamans Book requirements include a local government letter of identification, birth certificate or age declaration, and two recent passport-sized photographs.

Final Steps and Considerations

After ensuring all documents are in order and the application forms are completed and printed, you must take everything to the passport office, embassy, or high commission for further processing. Acknowledgement slips and payment receipts, along with two recent photographs, are necessary in all cases. It is also important to have a guarantor who can provide a photocopy of their Nigerian standard passport data page and either a driving license or national identity card.

Navigating the process of travelling abroad may seem challenging, but with careful planning and adherence to the outlined steps, it becomes manageable. By understanding the requirements and gathering the necessary documentation, Nigerians can successfully obtain their passports and embark on their international journeys for education, business, or leisure.