Many Nigerian parents abroad wonder whether their children born in the UK, US, Canada or elsewhere are Nigerian, and how to get them Nigerian passports. Having a Nigerian passport can make travel home easier, strengthen your child’s connection to their heritage and simplify future matters like property ownership.
Here’s what you need to know.
Is Your Child Nigerian?
Under the Nigerian Constitution, a person born outside Nigeria is generally a citizen by birth if either parent is a Nigerian citizen. This means most children born abroad to at least one Nigerian parent are Nigerian, even if they also hold another nationality.
Check whether your child’s other country of citizenship allows dual nationality. The UK, US and Canada generally do.
Why Get a Nigerian Passport?
- Enter Nigeria without applying for a visa
- Avoid visa fees and processing delays
- Stay in Nigeria without visa time limits
- Strengthen proof of citizenship for future purposes
- Maintain a formal connection to their heritage
Register the Birth First
Before applying, register your child’s birth in the country where they were born. Keep the full birth certificate showing both parents’ names. Some Nigerian missions also provide consular birth registration.
Documents Usually Required
Requirements vary by embassy or high commission, but commonly include:
- The child’s full birth certificate
- Parent’s valid Nigerian passport or proof of Nigerian citizenship
- Letter of consent from parents, especially for minors
- Passport photographs meeting specifications
- National Identification Number (NIN) for the child, where required
- Proof of address abroad
- Completed application form and payment receipt
Always check the current requirements of your nearest Nigerian mission.
The NIN Requirement
Nigerian passport applications typically require a NIN. Children abroad can often be enrolled at approved diaspora enrolment centres. Plan this step in advance.
The Application Process
Most applications involve:
- Completing an online application
- Paying fees through official channels
- Booking an appointment at the embassy or approved centre
- Attending with the child for biometrics
- Collecting the passport when ready
The Nigeria Immigration Service website provides official information on passport applications, fees and procedures.
Avoid Agents and Touts
Use only official websites and payment channels. Unofficial agents may overcharge or submit incorrect information. Some parents have lost money to fake passport services.
Name Consistency
Make sure your child’s name is spelled exactly the same on their birth certificate, foreign passport and Nigerian application. Mismatches cause problems at airports and in future applications.
Travelling With Two Passports
Dual-national children should generally leave and enter their country of residence on that country’s passport, and enter and leave Nigeria on their Nigerian passport. Airlines may ask to see both.
Renewals
Children’s passports may have shorter validity. Track expiry dates and renew early, especially before planned trips.
If One Parent Isn’t Nigerian
If only one parent is Nigerian, your child may still qualify. Bring proof of the Nigerian parent’s citizenship and the other parent’s documents as required.
Keep Copies Safe
Scan and store copies of your child’s birth certificate, passports and NIN slip in a secure digital folder. Having copies makes replacement much easier if documents are lost or stolen.
Timing Before Trips Home
Processing times at Nigerian missions can vary, especially before peak travel seasons like December and summer holidays. Apply several months before any planned trip to Nigeria. If your child’s Nigerian passport won’t be ready in time, you may need to apply for a Nigerian visa on their foreign passport, which adds cost and paperwork. Planning early avoids last-minute stress and unexpected fees.
Final Thoughts
Getting a Nigerian passport for your child born abroad is a practical way to preserve their heritage and simplify travel home. Register the birth, gather the right documents, get the NIN, use official channels and keep names consistent across all documents.