How to Renew Your Nigerian Passport in the U.S. (2025 Guide)

 

Looking to renew your Nigerian passport in the United States? The new digital system (launched late 2024) means you can handle most of the process online, only one in-person biometrics visit to a Nigerian Consulate or Embassy is needed. Here’s a clear, easy-to-skim guide optimized for people searching for answers fast.

At a Glance: Nigerian Passport Renewal in the U.S.

·         Apply online via the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) portal

·         Pay fees online or by USPS money order

·         Book an appointment for biometrics at a U.S. Nigerian Consulate/Embassy

·         Bring documents and your photo to your appointment

·         Get your new passport Pick up in person or have it mailed to your U.S. address

1. Renewal vs. Replacement – What Do You Need?

·         Renewal: Your passport is expiring (or expired < 10 years ago) and in good shape, or pages are full.

·         Replacement: Lost, stolen, defaced, or burnt passport; or need to update personal details (like after a marriage).

·         First-Time Applicant: Similar process, but you must bring a birth certificate and your parents’ ID.

Pro tip: Start your renewal if your passport is 5+ years old or nearly full, to avoid travel headaches.

2. Checklist: Documents & Photos

Have these ready before you begin (requirements may vary by consulate):

·         Printed online application form and payment receipt (from the NIS portal)

·         Current or expired Nigerian passport (plus photocopy of data page)

o    If lost: police report or notarized affidavit, plus a copy

·         Passport photo (2×2", white background, Nigerian specification)

·         Birth certificate or court age declaration (especially new/renewal)

·         State of Origin certificate or local gov’t ID (needed for first-timers)

·         NIN slip/card (National ID Number) matching your passport info exactly

·         Prepaid, self-addressed USPS envelope for return mail (Priority Mail recommended)

Always keep copies of originals—you may have to submit or sign over documents at your appointment.

See also: US Student Visa Tips

3. Apply Online (Quick Steps)

·         Go to the NIS portal: passport.immigration.gov.ng or for diaspora: passportintl.immigration.gov.ng

·         Register or log in

·         Select “Standard e-Passport,” choose United States as the country, then your nearest Consulate

·         Fill the form—details MUST match your IDs

·         Print two copies of the application form and your payment receipt

·         Save your Application ID and Reference Number

4. Pay Your Fees

 

·         Payment options:

o    Online (debit/credit card)

o    USPS money order (made to "Innovate 1 Service"). Mail as instructed on the portal.

Tip: USPS money orders process fastest. Name on card must match passport.

5. Schedule Your Biometrics Appointment

·         Book online: appointments.immigration.gov.ng or your Consulate’s site

·         Appointments typically on Monday, Tuesday, or Thursday mornings

·         On appointment day:

o    Bring all your forms, ID, photo, old passport, and the return envelope

o    Submit papers, provide biometrics (fingerprints & photo)

o    All applicants MUST show up in person

6. Track Your Passport & Delivery

·         Track online using your Application ID (NIS portal)

·         Processing: typically 3–12 weeks (renew early if you have travel plans)

·         Delivery:

o    New passports are mailed to the address you provide

o    Or arrange in-person pickup

See Also: How to order authentic African Groceries in the US

7. Smart Tips & What to Avoid

·         Ensure name and date of birth match across all documents

·         Never pay anyone directly—only use the official portals or money order

·         Check U.S. and Nigerian holidays before you book (embassies/consulates may close)

·         Keep your old passport until your new one is in hand

Useful Links (Save & Use These!)

·         NIS Application Portal: passport.immigration.gov.ng

·         NIS Diaspora Portal: passportintl.immigration.gov.ng

·         Appointment Booking: appointments.immigration.gov.ng

·         Nigerian Embassy DC: washingtondc.foreignaffairs.gov.ng

·         Consulate Atlanta: nigeriaconsulateatlanta.org

·         Nigerian Immigration Service: immigration.gov.ng

With Nigeria’s new digital system, getting your passport renewed in the U.S. is quick and much easier than before. Follow these steps and bring the right documents—your new passport will be with you soon, ready for travel!