Nigeria Immigration Service Extends Contactless Biometric Passport System to Four More Countries
The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has announced the rollout of its cutting-edge Contactless Biometric Passport Application System in four additional countries, marking a major step forward in the country’s digital transformation of its passport issuance process and improving services for Nigerians abroad.
The latest phase of the expansion brings the contactless passport application system to Canada, Germany, Italy, and the United Arab Emirates, following its successful deployment in the United States and the United Kingdom last year. The system allows applicants to complete nearly the entire passport application process online, significantly reducing in-person visits, waiting times, and physical contact—key considerations in a post-pandemic world.
A Shift Toward Innovation and Security
In a statement, the Comptroller General of Immigration, Kemi Nandap, highlighted the importance of the technology in enhancing operational efficiency, improving data accuracy, and promoting national security.
“The Contactless Biometric Passport Application System is a vital part of our modernization agenda. It leverages advanced technology to provide secure, efficient, and user-friendly services for Nigerians at home and in the diaspora,” she said. “This is not just about convenience, it’s about strengthening the integrity of our identity systems.”
The contactless system enables applicants to capture biometric data—such as facial recognition and fingerprints—through secure digital platforms without the need for traditional fingerprint inkpads or extended in-person interactions. In eligible countries, Nigerians can now apply for or renew their passports via the dedicated NIS online portal, upload required documents, and book appointments for brief identity verification and passport collection.
Relief for the Diaspora
For millions of Nigerians living abroad, passport renewal and issuance have historically been marred by long delays, inconsistent appointment systems, and bureaucratic bottlenecks. The expansion of this new digital system is being widely welcomed by diaspora communities, who have long advocated for more efficient consular services.
Samuel Adeyemi, a Nigerian living in Toronto, expressed his relief at the news:
“This is a game-changer for us. It used to take months to get a passport renewed. With this new system, I’ve already submitted my application online and booked an appointment for next week. It’s fast and transparent.”
Looking Ahead
The NIS says it is working closely with Nigerian embassies and consulates in the newly added countries to ensure smooth implementation. Staff have undergone training in digital biometric capture, data protection, and system troubleshooting to ensure the new system operates without disruption.
The long-term goal, according to the NIS, is to extend the contactless biometric passport system to at least 20 countries by 2026, making it easier for Nigerians around the world to access passport services quickly and securely.
In addition, the service is integrating artificial intelligence tools to detect identity fraud, reduce human error, and manage high application volumes more effectively. Plans are also underway to link the passport system to the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) database to streamline identity verification.
Conclusion
The expansion of the Contactless Biometric Passport Application System represents a bold step in Nigeria’s digital transformation strategy and a significant improvement in service delivery to citizens abroad. As the system rolls out across more countries, the hope is that it will reduce the stress of passport applications and bring Nigeria’s immigration processes in line with global best practices.
