Nigeria approves NIN verification fees for passports: What You Need to Know

Nigeria approves NIN verification fees for passports: What You Need to Know

Nigeria has announced the introduction of a National Identification Number (NIN) verification fee for passport applications, renewals and issuance services. This new fee is set to commence on April 1, 2023. Here’s what you need to know:

What is the NIN verification fee for passport services?

The applicable NIN verification fee for passport applications in Nigeria is N1,000, while other African countries will be charged $5 and other countries will be charged $15.

What is the purpose of the NIN verification fee?

The new fee is intended to improve the quality, accuracy and speed of passport services in Nigeria. The verification of NIN is expected to streamline passport application, renewal and issuance processes, which will significantly reduce the traffic visiting the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) office(s).

Who approved the NIN verification fee for passport services?

The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) in conjunction with the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) agreed on the revised applicant journey that would improve passport issuance/re-issuance speed and reduce the traffic visiting the NIS office(s). The new arrangement is in furtherance of the Federal Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy’s directive.

What is the significance of NIN in passport issuance?

NIN is expected to tie an individual’s record together. It is designed to lodge an individual’s demographic data, fingerprints, head-to-shoulder facial picture, other biometric data, and digital signature in the National Identity Database, and to confirm and verify through NIN.

What are the implications of the NIN verification fee?

The introduction of the NIN verification fee will make the passport issuance process more efficient, but it could also be a burden on the Nigerian populace who may have to pay more for passport services.

Conclusion

The Nigerian government’s introduction of the NIN verification fee is a significant development in the country’s efforts to streamline passport application, renewal and issuance processes. However, the implementation of the new fee will depend on the effectiveness of the NIS and NIMC in delivering quality, efficient and cost-effective services to the Nigerian populace.