The Nigerian government has announced a significant increase in the cost of international passport applications, with the new rates set to take effect from September 1, 2025. The revised fees will only apply to Nigerians applying within the country, while those in the diaspora will continue to pay the old charges.
Under the new structure, a 32-page passport with five-year validity will now cost ₦100,000, while a 64-page passport with ten-year validity has been raised to ₦200,000. Previously, the 32-page passport cost ₦50,000 after an earlier increment in 2024, while the 64-page document was priced at ₦100,000. In contrast, Nigerians abroad will still pay $150 and $230 for the 32-page and 64-page passports respectively.
According to the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), the upward review was necessary to maintain the quality and integrity of the Nigerian passport. Spokesperson ACI AS Akinlabi explained that the service remains committed to balancing improved service delivery with accessibility for citizens, stressing that the increment is part of ongoing reforms under the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.
Recent reforms have focused on digitizing the application process to reduce delays and eliminate corruption. Applicants are now able to complete most stages online, with physical presence required only for biometric capture. The government has also promised to reduce processing time for renewals to between one and two weeks, down from the months-long delays that previously plagued the system.
To apply, citizens must visit the official portal, passport.immigration.gov.ng, and submit necessary documents such as a birth certificate, local government identification, marriage certificate (if applicable), and evidence of payment. Special requirements also apply to minors and adopted children. The NIS insists the changes will create a more transparent and efficient process, though the steep price hike has already sparked concern among many Nigerians.
