EmmanuelNavigating the process of obtaining a passport in Nigeria can feel like a daunting task, especially with the constant updates to fees, procedures, and requirements. We understand the importance of having clear, reliable information to plan your travel or relocation needs effectively. In this detailed guide, we dive deep into the current costs of a Nigerian passport as of April 2025, explore the various types available, outline the application process, and provide essential tips to ensure a smooth experience. Whether you’re a first-time applicant or renewing an existing passport, we’ve got you covered with everything you need to know about how much a passport costs in Nigeria.
Current Passport Fees in Nigeria: What You’ll Pay in 2025
As of September 1, 2024, the Nigerian Federal Government implemented an upward review of passport fees, a change that remains in effect as of April 2025. This adjustment, announced by the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), reflects efforts to maintain the quality and integrity of the Nigerian Standard Passport while addressing rising production costs. Below, we break down the official costs for applicants residing in Nigeria:
- 32-page passport (5-year validity): ₦50,000
- 64-page passport (10-year validity): ₦100,000
These fees apply exclusively to Nigerians living within the country. For those in the diaspora, costs vary depending on the issuing consulate or embassy, typically ranging from $130 to $230 USD, depending on the passport type and validity period. For minors under 18, the fees are slightly lower:
- 32-page passport (5-year validity): ₦25,000
- 64-page passport (5-year validity): ₦35,000
Additionally, an ECOWAS passport, which facilitates travel within West African Community states, costs ₦25,000. For those needing expedited processing, an extra ₦20,000 express fee may apply, though availability depends on the passport office.
The Nigeria Immigration Service emphasizes that these prices ensure the passport meets international standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). However, additional costs—such as administrative fees, biometric enrollment, or delivery charges—may arise depending on your location and application method. We’ll explore these variables further to give you a complete picture.
Understanding Nigerian Passport Types and Their Costs
Nigeria offers several passport types tailored to different needs, each with its own pricing structure. Knowing which one suits you can save time and money. Here’s a detailed look at the options:
Standard Passport
The most common choice for Nigerian citizens, the standard passport comes in two formats:
- 32-page booklet: Ideal for occasional travelers, priced at ₦50,000 for a 5-year validity.
- 64-page booklet: Designed for frequent travelers, costing ₦100,000 for a 10-year validity.
Official Passport
Reserved for government officials and diplomats, this blue-covered passport has a 5-year validity. While technically free for eligible individuals, processing often involves administrative fees that vary by office.
Diplomatic Passport
Issued to high-ranking officials traveling on official assignments, this red passport is provided at no direct cost to the holder. However, obtaining it requires approval from the NIS headquarters in Abuja.
Seaman’s Book
For maritime workers, this specialized passport costs around ₦25,000, though additional documentation proving employment in the shipping industry is required.
ECOWAS Travel Certificate
Priced at ₦25,000, this document allows visa-free travel within ECOWAS member states for up to 90 days per visit. It’s a cost-effective option for regional travelers.
Each type serves a distinct purpose, and the associated costs reflect production complexity and intended use. For most citizens, the standard passport remains the go-to choice, balancing affordability with functionality.
Passport Fees for Nigerians Abroad: A Different Perspective
For Nigerians living overseas, passport fees are calculated in foreign currencies and processed through embassies or consulates. As of April 2025, the costs are consistent with 2024 updates:
- 32-page passport (5-year validity): $130 USD
- 64-page passport (10-year validity): $230 USD
These prices exclude additional charges, such as:
- Administrative fees: Often $20–$30 USD, depending on the mission.
- Lost passport penalties: Up to $350 USD for replacement.
- Postage fees: Vary by country (e.g., £20 in the UK via postal order).
For example, at the Nigeria High Commission in London, applicants must include a £20 administrative fee via postal order and a self-addressed envelope for return delivery. In the U.S., the Embassy in Washington, D.C., charges $100 USD for mobile processing events outside the capital. These variations highlight the importance of checking with your local consulate for precise costs.
Step-by-Step Application Process and Associated Costs
Securing a Nigerian passport involves a streamlined online process followed by in-person biometric capture. We’ve outlined the steps and potential costs to help you prepare:
- Online Registration
Visit the official NIS portal at passport.immigration.gov.ng. Create an account and complete the application form. This step is free, but you’ll need a National Identification Number (NIN), which costs ₦1,500–₦3,000 to obtain if you don’t already have one. - Payment
Select your passport type and pay online via card or bank transfer. The base fees are ₦50,000 or ₦100,000, with an optional ₦20,000 express fee for faster processing. - Biometric Enrollment
Schedule an appointment at a passport office or embassy. This step incurs no additional fee in Nigeria, but diaspora applicants may face consular charges (e.g., $30 USD in Atlanta). - Document Submission
Bring required documents, including:- Birth certificate or age declaration (₦500–₦1,000 if obtaining a new copy).
- Local government identification letter (₦500–₦2,000).
- Two passport photographs (₦500–₦1,000).
- Guarantor’s form and data page (free, but notary fees may apply).
- Collection
Passports are typically ready within 4–6 weeks, or 2–3 weeks with express service. Home delivery, introduced in June 2024, may add ₦5,000–₦10,000 depending on your location.
Total incidental costs in Nigeria can range from ₦2,500 to ₦15,000, pushing the overall expense beyond the base fee. Planning ahead minimizes unexpected expenses.
Factors Influencing Passport Costs in Nigeria
Several elements can affect what you ultimately pay for a Nigerian passport. We’ve identified the key factors to watch for:
- Location: Urban centers like Lagos and Abuja may have higher ancillary fees due to demand, while rural offices might offer lower costs but slower processing.
- Processing Speed: Opting for express service adds ₦20,000, a worthwhile investment for urgent travel.
- Documentation: Missing or outdated documents (e.g., NIN, birth certificate) require additional payments to obtain replacements.
- Diaspora Variations: Currency exchange rates and consular policies can increase costs abroad.
Understanding these variables ensures you budget accurately and avoid surprises during the application process.
Renewal Costs: What to Expect
Renewing a Nigerian passport follows a similar fee structure to new applications:
- 32-page (5-year): ₦50,000
- 64-page (10-year): ₦100,000
The process mirrors the initial application, requiring online payment and biometric capture. You’ll also need to submit your expired passport. For diaspora renewals, costs remain $130 or $230 USD, with potential administrative fees. Lost or damaged passports incur a ₦370 penalty in Nigeria or up to $350 USD abroad, plus the standard fee.
Read also: How much is B1/B2 Visa Application Fee in Nigeria?
Why Did Passport Fees Increase in Nigeria?
The 2024 fee hike—from ₦35,000 to ₦50,000 for a 32-page passport and ₦70,000 to ₦100,000 for a 64-page passport—stirred public debate. The NIS cited four main reasons:
- Quality Enhancement: Ensuring compliance with ICAO standards.
- Rising Production Costs: Materials and technology upgrades.
- Improved Accessibility: Funding new biometric centers.
- Local Production: Reducing reliance on imports.
While the increase reflects economic realities, it’s balanced by efforts to streamline issuance, such as the backlog clearance in 2023 and home delivery rollout in 2024.
Tips to Save Money on Your Nigerian Passport
We’ve compiled practical strategies to keep costs down:
- Apply Early: Avoid express fees by planning six months before expiration.
- Gather Documents: Ensure all paperwork is ready to prevent repeat visits.
- Use Official Channels: Avoid agents who inflate prices beyond official rates.
- Check Diaspora Options: Compare fees at nearby consulates for the best deal.
These steps maximize efficiency and minimize unnecessary expenses.
Common Questions About Passport Costs in Nigeria
How Much is a Passport for a Minor?
For children under 18, a 32-page passport costs ₦25,000, and a 64-page version is ₦35,000, both with 5-year validity.
Can I Pay Less for a Replacement?
No, lost or damaged passports require the full fee plus a penalty—₦370 in Nigeria or $350 USD abroad.
Are Fees Refundable?
Payments are non-refundable, even if the application is denied, so double-check your details before submission.
Read also: How Much is the IELTS Exam in Nigeria? A Complete Guide for 2025
The Value of a Nigerian Passport
Despite its modest global ranking—95th on the 2024 Henley Passport Index—the Nigerian passport offers visa-free access to 45 countries, primarily within ECOWAS. The fee increase supports improvements in security and efficiency, aligning it with international norms. For many, the cost is a worthwhile investment in global mobility.
Emmanuel