As a Nigerian, you need your Nigerian passport to travel around the world but getting it can sometimes be very stressful unless you know your way around.
If after all the struggle you finally get it, what now happens when there’s an error on it?
Whether it’s a misspelt name, incorrect date of birth, or any other mistake.
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You need to correct it if you want to ensure hassle-free travel and we will walk you through how you can do just that here.
Can I make a correction on my international passport?
Yes, you can make corrections on your international passport, if you notice that there is an error in your international passport, you can send a request for correction to your country’s Immigration Service.
Do not overlook any kind of error in your passport.
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No matter how minor, take it seriously. Overlooking any error in your passport can cause serious complications during your travels.
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Even minor mistakes, such as a misspelt name or incorrect date of birth, can cause delays and challenges at immigration checkpoints.
In some countries, you will be denied entrance simply because the information in your visa application form does not match what’s on your passport.
Moreover, travelling with an inaccurate passport can lead to fines or deportation.
If there is any error in your passport, you will be doing yourself a huge favour by correcting it before embarking on any travels.
How do I correct an error on my Nigerian passport?
To correct an error in your Nigerian passport, you need to involve the passport office.
Step 1: Identify the error
The first step in correcting an error on your Nigerian passport is identifying the error.
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Once your passport is issued to you, you need to carefully review all the details on your passport, including your name, date of birth, place of birth, and passport number.
If you notice any discrepancies or inaccuracies, make a note of them.
Common errors you will find include misspelt names, incorrect dates of birth, and errors in personal information.
To correct it, you need to get documents containing your correct details and send them to the Nigerian Immigration Service office.
Step 2: Gather your documents containing the correct details
Once you’ve identified the error, you need to get your documents containing the correct details to support your correction request.
You will need:
- A completed passport application form: This is necessary because the error cannot be corrected by cancelling it on the passport, so, you need to obtain a new one that will be error-free.
- Your current passport with the error
- Supporting documents to prove the correct information (e.g., birth certificate, national identity card)
- A letter explaining the error and requesting correction
- Any other documents required by the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS)
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Step 3: Visit the Nigerian Immigration Service Office
With all the documents in hand, visit the nearest Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) office.
You will likely wait in line, as these offices can be busy.
Once it’s your turn, explain the error to the immigration officer and submit your application for correction.
They will guide you through the process and will ask for additional documents or information.
Step 4: Pay the correction fee
There is usually a fee for correcting errors on a Nigerian passport.
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The amount will depend on the nature of the correction. Pay this fee at the immigration office.
Make sure you get a receipt as proof of payment.
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Step 5: Biometric data capture
After submitting your application and paying the correction fee, you’ll undergo biometric data capture.
They will take your photograph, fingerprints, and signature. Biometric data capture is done for security purposes.
Step 6: Wait for your passport to be processed
Once you’ve completed the application process, you’ll need to wait for your corrected passport to be processed.
The processing time takes several weeks. While you wait, you can track the status of your application online or by contacting the NIS.
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Step 7: Collect your corrected passport
Once your corrected passport is ready, you’ll receive a notification to collect it from the immigration office where you submitted your application.
When going, make sure you come with the original receipt and evidence of payment.
Upon verification, you’ll be issued your corrected passport.
If you notice any error in your passport after has been processed, you need to correct it, no matter how minor it is, a minor error can cause you a lot of problems when travelling.
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Do not risk it, the processing of correcting an error on your passport is simple and doesn’t waste much time, get it done.