How to Apply for a Nigerian Passport in the US: Requirements and Procedures

May 30, 2025 0

Applying for a Nigerian passport in the United States involves several steps to ensure a smooth and efficient process. This guide provides detailed information on the requirements, application procedures, and important considerations for both adult and minor applicants.

Visa and Passport Requirements

Applicants for Nigerian visas must submit their current, undamaged passport, which should contain at least one blank visa page. For a Nigerian visa, applicants are required to fill out an online visa application form.

Online Application and Payment

The Embassy of Nigeria has introduced a web-based visa application form and payment procedure for a more convenient way to obtain a visa. The visa application form must be submitted and paid for online.

Scheduling an Appointment

Passport issuances in Abuja and Lagos are by appointment only. Services are by appointment only. To ensure quality service, it is crucial to arrive on time for your appointment. Applicants who arrive more than 15 minutes late will need to reschedule.

Application Process

Follow these steps to complete your Nigerian e-passport application:

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In the Passport menu, choose the E-Passport Application Form Option.
Complete the form and print it.
Click on the close button to continue the application process.
On the Cart page, double-check to make sure that the name in the cart corresponds to the appropriate applicant.
Choose the credit card payment option or the money order payment option and click next.
Using the Application ID and Reference number, proceed to payment.
If the credit card option is used, allow 30 minutes for the payment to register, and proceed to the next step. For credit card payments, the applicant may only use his or her credit for payment of fees.
In the application menu, click on the Query Your Application Payment Status option.
Select E-Passport in the application menu and enter the Reference Number and Application ID.
Click on the Search Record button.
The applicant should appear at the Nigerian Embassy on the appointment date, with his or her expired Nigerian passport and required documents.

Required Documents

Ensure you have the following documents ready:

A copy of the letter of invitation from the host explaining the relationship between themselves and the application as well as the purpose of travel. The letter must also indicate the length of the stay, place of stay, and contact information.
Valid I. D.
Proof of U.S. citizenship (birth certificate, naturalization certificate, old passports) and identity, such as a driver’s license.

Payment Options

Fees can be paid in several ways:

U.S. dollars or the equivalent in Nigerian Naira in cash at the Embassy or Consulate.
Credit card issued in the United States.
Pay.gov (for adult and minor applicants using Form DS-11 or DS-82 to renew their passport). If paying online, bring a printed copy of your Pay.gov receipt that includes your Pay.gov Tracking ID to the interview.

Passport Renewal

Adult applicants using a DS-82 form to renew their passport may elect to use Pay.gov to pay their passport renewal fee. Minor applicants using a DS-11 form to renew their passport may also elect to use Pay.gov to pay their passport fee.

Special Considerations for Minors

When applying for a passport for a minor, note the following:

Both parents must be present with the child. A valid identification is required for each parent.
Both parents or guardians should appear with the minor.
If one parent/guardian cannot be present, the non-applying parent or guardian must complete DS-3053 “Statement of Consent” providing written consent for the issuance of a passport for the minor child.
Sign and date Form DS-3053 in the presence of a Certified Notary Public. The statement must explain in detail the non-applying parent’s or guardian’s unavailability and recent efforts made to contact the non-applying parent.

Emergency Passports

Emergency passports are limited to 12 pages, normally valid for only one year and cannot be extended. Emergency passports are issued when there is a need for immediate travel. You should first schedule a passport appointment using the links below. If necessary you can request a limited emergency passport on the day of your appointment.

As with full validity passports, you must appear at the Embassy or Consulate in person to apply. The application process and fee is the same as if you were applying for a regular passport. Fill the required form out using the PASSPORT WIZARD. Complete the form online, hit submit, and then print the form and bring it to your appointment. The printed form will include the unique scannable barcode in the upper left corner - make sure it is not cut off.

When you receive your emergency passport, you will also receive a letter that explains how to obtain a regular passport after completing your urgent travel.

Additional Information

Allow Approximately 3 weeks for processing. Passports must be collected by the applicant or authorized representative.

If you need to change or correct the data on your Nigerian e-passport, it can only be done in Nigeria.

Important Notice: Applicants are required to complete and print online application forms as well as to print the Acknowledge Slip and Receipt after making payment.

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If you need reasonable accommodation for your appointment, we encourage you to request your accommodation immediately once you schedule your appointment. We make every effort to provide accommodations to persons with disabilities and medical conditions.