The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), under the directive of the Federal Government, has officially launched a state-of-the-art contactless passport system in the United States, Brazil, Jamaica, and Mexico. This bold step marks a significant leap forward in modernizing passport processing for Nigerians living abroad.
The contactless passport system introduces cutting-edge biometric technology and a fully digital application process that enhances both security and efficiency. The innovation aligns with global best practices and responds to the growing demand for streamlined and secure identification systems for international travel.
Speaking at the official unveiling in Washington D.C., Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, described the initiative as a milestone in the government’s commitment to improving diaspora engagement and service delivery.
“This high-tech contactless passport system is more than an upgrade—it is a reflection of our commitment to innovation, transparency, and inclusivity,” Dr. Tunji-Ojo said. “Nigerians in the diaspora deserve access to the same level of service excellence as those at home.”
The new passport solution allows applicants to complete the application process online, including biometric data capture, document upload, and appointment scheduling. With a secure and user-friendly interface, applicants will benefit from reduced wait times and minimal in-person interaction—ideal for the post-pandemic travel environment.
The Nigerian embassies and consulates in Washington D.C., New York, Atlanta, Houston, São Paulo, Kingston, and Mexico City have begun full implementation of the contactless system, with trained personnel and upgraded infrastructure ready to serve.
The NIS revealed that the new system launched in the U.S. on April 11, followed by Jamaica on April 14, with Mexico and Brazil also set to implement the system around the same time, on April 14, 2025.
Akinlabi said the move was part of the service’s plan to make passport renewal easier for Nigerians abroad.
According to him, the application is currently available on the Google Play Store as “NIS Mobile,” which allows Nigerians to renew their passports without visiting any passport center for biometric enrollment.
He added that the Apple Store version will be available soon, and an enhanced version of the NIS Mobile App for both Android and iOS users will be deployed to further improve user experience and accessibility.
“With this rollout, the NIS announced that the contactless passport application is now available in Canada, the USA, Mexico, Jamaica, Brazil, Europe, and Asia.
“The system has yet to be launched in Australia and Nigeria, with a future date to be announced for both countries,” he said.
Akinlabi reiterated the NIS’s commitment to delivering innovative and efficient services to Nigerians globally.
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