The Nigeria Immigration Service has announced a new contactless passport renewal system that will allow Nigerians to renew their international passports online, significantly reducing the need for in-person visits to NIS offices.
This service is set to debut in Canada on November 1, 2024.
In a video statement posted on its official X account, formerly known as Twitter, the NIS revealed that the contactless renewal system is part of its efforts to “serve the Nigerian public more efficiently and create a functional system that meets global standards.”
Following the initial launch in Canada, the NIS plans to extend the service to the United Kingdom, the United States, and Italy by November 15, 2024, with availability in Nigeria and other international locations starting December 1.
“Nigerians will now be able to renew their international passports from the comfort of their homes without needing to visit any NIS office,” the agency said.
The phased rollout aims to “enhance accessibility for Nigerians worldwide,” enabling them to renew passports seamlessly, regardless of location.
To use the service, applicants can either download the NIS mobile app—expected to be available on Google Play, the App Store, and the Windows Store by November 1—or visit the NIS portal online.
While the app is not yet accessible on these platforms, Nigerians in Canada will be the first to experience the service once it launches.
With this new system, the NIS strives to streamline its processes, making it easier for citizens to manage essential documentation from abroad.