Nigeria, the most populous country in Africa, has emerged as an attractive destination for entrepreneurs, investors, expatriates, and individuals with strong familial ties. With its vast economic opportunities and vibrant culture, it’s no surprise that some foreigners are exploring ways to become Nigerian citizens and obtain a Nigerian passport. While getting a passport as a non-Nigerian isn’t straightforward, it is possible under specific legal pathways.
This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about how to get a Nigerian passport as a foreigner—including eligibility, application procedures, required documents, and the various pathways to citizenship.
Understanding Nigerian Citizenship
Before a foreigner can obtain a Nigerian passport, it’s essential to understand the basis of Nigerian citizenship. The 1999 Nigerian Constitution recognizes three main avenues through which a person can become a Nigerian citizen:
- Citizenship by Birth
- Citizenship by Registration
- Citizenship by Naturalization
Since foreigners are not eligible for citizenship by birth (which applies only to individuals born in Nigeria to Nigerian parents or a Nigerian parent), their options lie in either citizenship by registration or naturalization.
Let’s examine what each entails.
Eligibility Criteria for Foreigners
To be eligible to apply for a Nigerian passport as a foreigner, you must first become a Nigerian citizen. The eligibility depends on how you intend to acquire that citizenship:
1. Citizenship by Registration
This route is mainly for:
- Foreign women married to Nigerian men.
- Individuals of African descent who intend to reside in Nigeria.
Requirements for eligibility:
- Must be of good character.
- Must have shown a clear intention to reside in Nigeria.
- In the case of marriage, the marriage must be legally recognized under Nigerian law.
2. Citizenship by Naturalization
This route is suitable for foreigners who have lived in Nigeria for a considerable period.
Requirements include:
- Must have resided in Nigeria for a continuous period of at least 15 years.
- Must be of full age and capacity.
- Must be of good character.
- Must show evidence of integration into the Nigerian community.
- Must be capable of contributing to the development of the country.
If you fulfill any of the above conditions, you can proceed with applying for Nigerian citizenship—which is the first major step before applying for a Nigerian passport.
Types of Nigerian Passports Available
Once you have obtained Nigerian citizenship, you are eligible to apply for any of the following types of Nigerian passports:
- Standard Passport – For regular citizens for international travel.
- Official Passport – For government officials and public servants.
- Diplomatic Passport – Reserved for diplomats and top-ranking officials.
- Seaman’s Passport – For individuals employed in marine-related services.
As a naturalized citizen, you’ll most likely apply for the Standard Nigerian Passport, also known as the e-passport.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Here’s how to apply for a Nigerian passport as a foreigner who has obtained Nigerian citizenship:
Step 1: Visit the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) Portal
Go to the NIS official website and locate the e-passport section. This is where you’ll begin your passport application process.
Step 2: Fill in the Online Passport Application Form
You will need to provide the following details:
- Full name (as per your citizenship certificate)
- Date of birth
- Gender
- Local government area and state of residence
- Contact address and phone number
- National Identification Number (NIN)
Step 3: Make Payment
Once the form is filled, you will be redirected to make an online payment. The cost of the Nigerian passport varies depending on the number of pages and validity period (usually 5 or 10 years).
Step 4: Book and Attend Biometric Capture Appointment
After payment, schedule a biometric appointment at your nearest passport office. During the appointment, your fingerprints, photograph, and other biometric data will be collected.
Step 5: Submit Required Documents
You’ll be required to submit original and photocopies of the following documents:
- Certificate of Nigerian Citizenship (by registration or naturalization)
- Birth certificate or sworn affidavit of age declaration
- Proof of residence in Nigeria
- Passport photographs (as specified)
- NIN slip
Step 6: Await Passport Processing
Passport processing time may vary based on your location, but typically takes between 2 to 6 weeks. You will be notified via SMS or email when your passport is ready for collection.
Required Documentation
Here’s a detailed list of documents you must prepare and submit during the application process:
For Citizenship by Registration:
- Certificate of registration
- Marriage certificate (for spouses)
- Valid identification (foreign passport, national ID, etc.)
- Sworn affidavit of allegiance to Nigeria
- Passport photographs
- Utility bills or tenancy agreements as proof of residence
For Citizenship by Naturalization:
- Certificate of naturalization
- Police clearance certificate
- Tax clearance for the previous 3 years
- Recommendation letters from Nigerian citizens
- Evidence of 15 years continuous residence (e.g., immigration stamps, residency permits)
- Letter of intent addressed to the President
- Sworn declaration of intent to renounce previous citizenship (if dual nationality is not allowed)
Costs and Processing Time
The total cost for acquiring a Nigerian passport includes both the cost of citizenship (which may involve legal fees, application processing fees, and administrative costs) and the cost of the passport itself.
Passport Fee Structure (as of 2025):
- 32-page passport (5 years validity): ₦25,000 – ₦35,000
- 64-page passport (10 years validity): ₦70,000 – ₦100,000
These figures may vary slightly depending on your application center and whether you are applying within Nigeria or from abroad.
Citizenship Application Fees:
- Registration: ₦100,000 – ₦200,000 (excluding lawyer or consultant fees)
- Naturalization: ₦200,000 – ₦500,000 (may be higher depending on legal representation)
Processing Time:
- Citizenship application: 6 months to 2 years
- Passport application: 2 to 6 weeks
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
While the process is legally outlined, there are common obstacles that applicants may face:
1. Lengthy Citizenship Approval Times
- Tip: Engage a qualified immigration lawyer or consultant to assist with documentation and follow-ups.
2. Document Verification Issues
- Tip: Always ensure documents are genuine and properly notarized.
3. Technical Glitches on the NIS Portal
- Tip: Consider visiting a physical NIS passport office for assistance or using a cybercafé familiar with NIS applications.
4. Delays in Passport Issuance
- Tip: Apply well in advance of any intended travel and follow up regularly with the issuing office.
Benefits of Holding a Nigerian Passport
Being a Nigerian passport holder comes with several advantages:
- Visa-Free Travel: Access to several African countries without a visa.
- Business Opportunities: Easier integration into Nigeria’s dynamic economic landscape.
- Dual Nationality: Nigeria allows dual citizenship (for those naturalized), which means you can retain your original citizenship if your home country permits it.
- Social Integration: As a recognized citizen, you gain the full rights and privileges of a Nigerian, including voting rights, employment in public sectors, and property ownership.
Conclusion
Getting a Nigerian passport as a foreigner involves patience, planning, and fulfilling a number of legal requirements. Whether you’re pursuing citizenship through marriage, heritage, or long-term residence, understanding the process is your first step toward joining the community of Nigerian citizens.
Make sure to stay updated with the latest information from the Nigeria Immigration Service and consult with an immigration expert when in doubt. With determination and the right documentation, your path to holding a Nigerian passport is absolutely achievable.