The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) is set to launch a groundbreaking, phased contactless passport renewal system starting November 1, 2024, in Canada. This innovative service will allow Nigerians to renew their passports online, significantly minimizing the need for in-person visits to NIS offices. The announcement was made via a video shared on the NIS official X account (formerly Twitter), highlighting the agency’s commitment to enhancing efficiency in serving Nigerian citizens.
Following the initial rollout in Canada, the NIS plans to expand this service to the United Kingdom, United States, and Italy on November 15, 2024. By December 1, the contactless renewal system will be available in Nigeria and other global locations. This phased approach aims to provide greater accessibility to Nigerians worldwide, making the passport renewal process more seamless and user-friendly.
According to the NIS, the new system enables individuals to apply for passport renewals from the comfort of their homes, eliminating the need for travel to NIS offices. “In its continued effort to serve the Nigerian public more efficiently and create a functional system that meets global standards, the NIS has launched this new contactless issuance process,” the agency stated. This initiative is part of the NIS’s broader strategy to modernize its services and align with global best practices.
To utilize the contactless passport renewal system, Nigerians can download the NIS mobile app, which will be available on Google Play, the App Store, and the Windows Store. While the app is not yet accessible on these platforms, the NIS assures users that it will be ready for download starting November 1 in Canada. This flexibility allows citizens to complete their passport renewal applications conveniently, regardless of their location.
As the NIS continues to innovate and adapt to the needs of Nigerians globally, this contactless passport renewal system is expected to streamline the renewal process significantly. By leveraging technology, the NIS aims to reduce wait times and improve customer service, ultimately enhancing the experience for Nigerians seeking to maintain their travel documentation.
