By Hannah Ogunlabi
Nigerians living abroad can now renew their passports without visiting an embassy for biometric enrolment through the new contactless passport application system.
The system is designed to make passport renewal faster, easier and more convenient for eligible Nigerians in the diaspora.
Under the new system, applicants can complete and track their applications online without having to visit an embassy for biometric enrolment. They can also go through a secure verification process using the National Identification Number (NIN) and date of birth.
How the Contactless Passport Renewal Works
To begin the process, applicants are required to visit the official Nigerian Immigration Service passport portal and select “Apply from Outside Nigeria.” They should then choose “Apply for Renewal or Reissue” to start the application.
Applicants are expected to create an account and verify their identity with their NIN and date of birth. They will then complete the application form, select their preferred processing embassy and upload the required documents.
After paying the passport fee, applicants will receive an application ID and reference number. These numbers should be kept safe because they will be needed throughout the application process.
Applicants will then be given the option of choosing either a physical appointment or a contactless appointment.
Those who qualify for the contactless service can select “Opt in for Contactless” under the application status or book appointment section. A guide explaining the process will then be provided.
The applicant will need to download the NRS mobile app and log in or create an account. From the app, they should select “Passport Application Services” and then “Passport Biometric Enrolment.”
The application ID and reference number will be entered into the app to check eligibility. If eligible, the applicant will be guided through capturing their facial image and fingerprints before submitting their biometrics for review.
Once the biometrics have been reviewed successfully and the applicant is confirmed eligible, they will be asked to pay the contactless service fee.
However, applicants who are not eligible for the contactless service can return to the portal and book a physical appointment at their selected embassy or high commission.
After completing the payment, applicants are required to print their application form and retrieve their current national passport. Both should be placed in a self-addressed return envelope and sent to the selected processing embassy.
Applicants can begin tracking their applications two weeks after submission through the tracking portal or the NRS mobile app.
The contactless passport system is expected to make passport renewal more convenient for eligible Nigerians living outside the country.
Applicants are also advised to use only official Nigerian Immigration Service channels when applying for or renewing their passports.
Vanguard News
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