The UAE, a melting pot of diverse cultures, is home to many expatriates, including a significant Nigerian community.
Nigerian passport renewal in the UAE
With over 100 foreign missions in the country, the UAE has streamlined processes for expatriates, making life easier, especially for those needing to renew their passports. If you're a Nigerian expat residing in the UAE and your passport is nearing its expiration, you can conveniently renew it without leaving the country.
Step 1: Access the Nigeria Immigration Service Portal
To begin the passport renewal process, visit the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) portal online. Log in with your credentials and verify your National Identification Number (NIN). This verification is crucial as it links your application to your identity records back in Nigeria.
Step 2: Complete the online application
Visit the website and complete the online form to renew your passport. Maintain timeliness by checking that all details are accurate. Gather the necessary documents and then arrange an appointment with the Nigerian consulate or embassy. At this point, you must also pay the renewal fee online. You should keep the payment receipt for your records.
Step 3: Attend the Data Collection Appointment
Your application will be reviewed, and you will be scheduled for a data collection appointment. These appointments are typically held from Tuesday to Thursday, between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. During this appointment, biometric data, such as your fingerprints and photographs, will be collected. Ensure you attend this appointment punctually, as it is a crucial step in the renewal process.
Step 4: Collect Your New Passport
Once your passport has been processed, you will receive a phone call from the embassy or consulate informing you that your new passport is ready for collection. Passport pickup is usually scheduled on Mondays and Fridays, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bring your old passport and the necessary documents for verification when collecting your new passport.
Documents Required for Renewal
When you visit the Nigerian Embassy or Consulate for your appointment, you will need to bring the following documents:
- Passport Payment Slip
- Passport Acknowledgement Slip
- Signed and dated copy of the online application form
- One passport photograph
- An expired Nigerian passport and a photocopy of the passport data page
Important Considerations
-
Print Your Application: Ensure you have printed out your completed application form and the payment receipt. These documents must be presented at the mission. Note that internet services are not provided at the embassy, so prepare these documents in advance.
-
Type of Renewal: Determine whether you need a renewal or a reissue. If your passport was issued five years ago and is now full, you need a reissue. If it is less than ten years old but full, you need a renewal. For lost, missing, defaced, or burned passports, a replacement is required.
By following these steps, Nigerian expatriates in the UAE can efficiently renew their passports and ensure their travel documents remain valid. The process, while straightforward, requires careful attention to detail and adherence to the guidelines provided by the Nigerian Immigration Service.