The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Passport

  • FULL LIST: 29 countries to phase out passport stamps

    FULL LIST: 29 countries to phase out passport stamps

    Your next international trip to Europe may not come with a passport stamp marking which country or countries you visited.

    Starting October 12, 29 European countries will begin replacing traditional passport stamps with a new Entry/Exit System (EES), which is expected to be fully operational by April 10, 2026.

    This digital system is designed to make border checks faster and more efficient by recording the entry and exit of non-European travelers using fingerprint and facial recognition data.

    The 29 countries involved are part of the Schengen Area, a zone in Europe where internal border controls have been mostly eliminated, allowing for the free movement of people among member countries. The Schengen Area currently includes 25 EU member states and 4 non-EU countries.

    While travellers have historically moved between these countries with minimal passport checks, the EES will streamline the process further by providing self-service options and enabling travelers to submit their information ahead of time, cutting down time spent at border crossings.

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    The biometric data collected will also help authorities identify individuals who overstay, use false identities, or abuse visa-free travel. Border officials and law enforcement will have access to this information to better manage security risks.

    Below is the full list of the 29 countries that will start phasing out passport stamps on Oct. 12 as the new EES is rolled out:

    Austria

    Belgium

    Bulgaria

    Croatia

    Czechia

    Denmark

    Estonia

    Finland

    France

    Germany

    Greece

    Hungary

    Iceland

    Italy

    Latvia

    Liechtenstein

    Lithuania

    Luxembourg

    Malta

    Netherlands

    Norway

    Poland

    Portugal

    Romania

    Slovakia

    Slovenia

    Spain

    Sweden

    Switzerland

  • FG inaugurates passport front office for senior public officials

    FG inaugurates passport front office for senior public officials

    The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has inaugurated the newly established Passport Front Office, a specialised facility designed to facilitate timely and seamless passport processing for senior public officials and other designated individuals.

    According to the Director of Press in the Ministry, Ozoya Imohimi, the facility was established in response to the persistent challenges faced by senior government officials who previously experienced hitches in accessing passports.

    He quoted the minister as saying that, “before now, many top-level public servants had to abandon their official duties and endure long queues at standard passport offices.”

    He further said that, “It became clear that for us to serve the nation more effectively, we must also serve those tasked with its leadership more efficiently.”

    Commending the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) for its professionalism and expertise, Dr. Tunji-Ojo highlighted the collaboration between the Ministry and critical partners such as Iris Smart Technologies, which supplied the state-of-the-art digital infrastructure powering the new front office.

    “This facility sets a new benchmark for excellence and will significantly improve access, reduce waiting time, and elevate the overall passport service delivery standard,” he stated.

    Dr. Tunji-Ojo emphasised that this initiative is part of a broader reform effort championed by the Ministry since 2023.

    Read Also: Interior ministry has reduced passport delays, says minister

     “When we came in, it was shocking to realise that the Ministry of Interior and the Nigerian Immigration Service had no dedicated passport facility for public officials. Today marks a turning point as we begin to bridge that gap and set a new course for service delivery in our nation,” the Minister said.

    The Minister used the opportunity to inform Nigerians of the reformation of the Renewed Hope Administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in every sector of the economy.

    The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, commended all stakeholders in the passport ecosystem, emphasising the importance of the newly commissioned office.

     “This is a very significant occasion,” she remarked, “as the Passport Front Office serves as a dedicated, high-priority channel for the dignified and efficient processing of passport applications for key public officials whose mobility is crucial to national service,” she said.

    The ceremony was attended by the Minister of Water Resources, Professor Joseph Utsev, and all the Heads of para-military Services under the Ministry and representatives from the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment.

  • Easiest countries for Nigerians to gain citizenship in 2025

    Easiest countries for Nigerians to gain citizenship in 2025

    As a Nigerian, there are four main pathways to obtaining a second passport:-citizenship by birth, citizenship by descent, naturalisation, and citizenship by investment.

    With growing interest in global mobility and securing a second passport, many are looking for the fastest and simplest routes to citizenship. Dual citizenship has become an attractive option, whether for financial stability, new lifestyle opportunities, or simply having a backup plan.

    However, it’s essential to verify whether the country you’re considering permits dual citizenship. While many Caribbean nations allow multiple citizenships, some EU countries have restrictions.

    Below, we explore the easiest countries to gain citizenship through descent, naturalisation, or investment:

    Citizenship by birth

    Citizenship by birth, also known as jus soli (right of the soil), allows individuals to acquire nationality simply by being born within a country’s territory. A number of countries offer this pathway, including some where Nigerians may be eligible for citizenship at birth.

    Here are countries where Nigerians can potentially obtain citizenship by being born on their soil:

    – United States 

    – Canada 

    – Brazil 

    – Argentina 

    – Mexico 

    – France 

    – Ireland 

    – Chile 

    – Peru 

    – Venezuela 

    – The Bahamas 

    – New Zealand 

    – Panama 

    It’s important to note that while these countries generally grant citizenship to those born on their territory, there are exceptions—particularly for children of foreign diplomats or under certain legal conditions. Always review the specific laws and eligibility requirements of each country before making any plans to relocate or apply for citizenship.

    Citizenship by Descent

    If you have ancestral roots in another country, obtaining a second passport through descent can be one of the most accessible and cost-effective options. Many countries allow individuals to claim citizenship by proving their lineage, sometimes going back multiple generations.

    Here are some of the most accessible countries where you can gain citizenship by descent:

    Italy

    Italy offers one of the most inclusive citizenship-by-descent programs, allowing individuals to claim citizenship through great-grandparents in many cases. Although the process can be time-consuming due to bureaucratic delays, it remains a clear path to securing an EU passport and the freedom to live and work across Europe.

    Ireland

    Ireland has one of the easiest and most efficient descent-based citizenship processes. If you have a parent, grandparent, or in some cases, a great-grandparent born in Ireland, you’re likely eligible. The application is generally faster and less complicated than in many other EU nations.

     Hungary

    Hungary provides a streamlined route to citizenship for those with Hungarian ancestry. Applicants must prove their lineage and demonstrate basic Hungarian language skills. As a member of the EU, Hungary offers a valuable passport with wide-ranging travel and residency rights.

     Poland

    Poland recognizes citizenship claims through descent, often up to great-grandparents. While the application requires detailed documentation and can be complex, a successful claim offers full EU benefits, including the right to live, work, and travel freely across member states.

     Portugal

    Portugal stands out for its flexible descent policies, including a special provision for descendants of Sephardic Jews expelled during the Inquisition. This inclusive approach, paired with relatively clear eligibility criteria, makes Portugal an appealing option for many.

     Spain

    Spain offers citizenship to those with Spanish-born parents and has a dedicated route for Sephardic Jewish descendants. However, for applicants beyond the first generation, additional proof and documentation may be necessary. Still, it remains a strong pathway to EU citizenship.

    Citizenship by Naturalization

    For those without ancestral connections, citizenship by naturalization is a practical and achievable route to a second passport. This process usually requires a minimum period of legal residency, basic language proficiency, a clean record, and sometimes a citizenship test. Below are some of the countries with relatively accessible naturalization pathways:

    Argentina
    Argentina offers one of the world’s shortest naturalization periods—just two years of legal residency. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and demonstrate ties to the country, such as steady employment, property ownership, or a legitimate source of income. Other countries with a two-year requirement include the Dominican Republic and Spain.

    Peru
    Peru also grants citizenship after two years of residency. The process is generally straightforward, and combined with its low cost of living, Peru is an attractive option for those seeking an affordable and efficient path to a second passport.

    Poland
    In Poland, citizenship can be obtained after three years of continuous residence under a permanent residence permit, EU long-term residency, or right of permanent residence. Applicants must show a stable income. If married to a Polish citizen, you can apply after just two years of residency, provided you’ve been married for at least three years. Serbia, Canada, Paraguay, and Armenia also have three-year naturalization pathways.

    Read Also: UK to deny citizenship to small boat refugees

    Brazil
    Brazil requires four years of legal residency to qualify for citizenship. However, this period can be reduced to just one year if you’re married to a Brazilian citizen or have a child born in Brazil. Ethiopia and Australia also offer naturalization after four years of residency.

    Portugal
    Portugal is known for its relatively short five-year residency requirement. To apply for citizenship, you must also demonstrate basic knowledge of Portuguese (A2 level) and have no serious criminal record. Other countries with similar five-year requirements include Belgium and Barbados.

    Citizenship by Investment

    For individuals with the financial capacity, citizenship by investment is the fastest and most straightforward route to acquiring a second passport. In return for a qualifying investment—usually in real estate or a government fund—many countries offer expedited citizenship and expanded global mobility. Here are some of the quickest and most appealing programs:

    Vanuatu
    Vanuatu offers one of the world’s fastest citizenship-by-investment processes, with passports issued in as little as two months. A minimum investment of $130,000 is required. The country’s passport grants visa-free access to a wide range of countries, making it a favorite among frequent travelers.

    Turkey
    Turkey’s program enables applicants to secure citizenship in three to four months through a real estate investment of at least $400,000. With its strategic location between Europe and Asia, Turkey provides investors access to a growing market and excellent travel benefits.

    Dominica
    Dominica features one of the most cost-effective citizenship-by-investment options, requiring a minimum contribution of $200,000. The process typically takes about six months, and the passport offers visa-free travel to over 140 destinations, including the EU and UK.

    St. Kitts & Nevis
    Home to one of the oldest citizenship-by-investment programs, St. Kitts & Nevis grants citizenship in approximately six months with a minimum investment of $200,000. Like Dominica, it offers extensive visa-free travel and is recognized for its efficient application process.

  • Fed Govt resolves passport printer hiccups in Atlanta, New York

    Fed Govt resolves passport printer hiccups in Atlanta, New York

    The Federal Government has resolved passport printer crises in Atlanta and New York Consulates for Nigerians in diaspora to have seamless access to passport application process and acquisition.

    The resolution followed the directive of the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, that the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) deploy machines and other equipment to the affected consulates.

    The Special Adviser to the Minister on Media and Publicity, Alao Babatunde, confirmed this in a statement yesterday in Abuja.

    The media aide said the machines were delivered and installed on Tuesday.

    Babatunde said: “Recall that some Nigerians in the diaspora recently called the attention of the minister to the need for new printers to ease the process of passport application in the concerned consulates.

    “The installation of the new printers provides immediate relief and is part of the ministry’s broader effort to streamline passport services in ensuring a more seamless application process.

    Read Also: 21 countries Nigerian passport holders can visit with a valid US visa

    “The ministry is committed to innovation and improved service delivery.

    “The installation of these new printers demonstrates our dedication to addressing the needs of Nigerians at home and abroad.

    “The ongoing reforms, including the Abuja Passport Personalisation Centre, and the expansion of contactless solutions to cover more regions, will further enhance service efficiency.

    “In addition, the development reflects the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and demonstrates the administration’s commitment to improving the lives of Nigerians.

    “With these new printers, Nigerians in Atlanta and New York can expect a faster and more efficient passport application process.”

  • Six things you should know as FG begins contactless passport application system in Europe

    Six things you should know as FG begins contactless passport application system in Europe

    The Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) has launched a Contactless Passport Renewal System across Europe, building on its successful introduction in Canada. 

    This initiative allows eligible Nigerians in Europe to renew their passports online, eliminating the need for physical presence and reducing waiting period.

    The system offers benefits such as greater efficiency, accessibility, and modernization of services, aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s goal of a digital transformation and a $1 trillion economy.

    Nigerians can apply through the NIS mobile app or website, following a simple process involving profile creation, eligibility checks, document uploads, biometric capture, and payment.

    Read Also: Benefits of contactless passports applications, by Interior Minister

    Below are six things to know about the system:

    1. Application can only be with standard passports.

    2. Passport validity must be less than one year except in cases of exhausted visa pages.

    3. Applicant must be 18 years and above.

    4. Applicant must have a prior biometric capture.

    5. Applications for special cases e.g. change of data, lost cases, bypass etc cannot be entertained.

    6. Payments must be less than one year.

    The launch emphasises the government’s commitment to improving service delivery for Nigerians at home and abroad.

  • Nigerians in U.S urge Interior Minister to address passport printer shortage

    Nigerians in U.S urge Interior Minister to address passport printer shortage

    Nigerians in the United States have called on the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, to address the issue of the absence of passport printers at the Nigerian Consulates in New York and Atlanta. 

    They argued that this shortage has caused undue hardship, leaving many stranded without valid passports and preventing them from travelling for emergencies, work, or family commitments.

    In a statement by the Organization for the Advancement of Nigerians (OAN), in collaboration with its partner organisations, they expressed disappointment over the continued lack of response from the Ministry of Interior to their long-standing appeal. 

    The groups copied President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, and Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, in their statement.

    OAN President Olutomi Aregbesola highlighted that the issue has persisted for a while. He revealed that two passport printers are currently stationed at the Nigerian Embassy in Washington, D.C., one of which remains idle. 

    Aregbesola alleged that the refusal to deploy the idle printer to New York or Atlanta stemmed from unfounded concerns by the former Minister of Interior that such a move might create discontent among the missions.

    Read Also: Ensure passport issuance within six weeks, court orders Interior minister, NIS

    “This reasoning defies logic and reflects a lack of informed and strategic decision-making,” OAN stated, pointing out that this inaction has led to unnecessary travel expenses for immigration officers, security risks, and delays in service delivery.

    “The New York Consulate serves the largest jurisdiction in the United States, with a high concentration of Nigerians, yet it lacks a passport printer. OAN called this situation unacceptable in 2025.”

    The statement highlighted the severe implications of this neglect, which include public frustration, and growing dissatisfaction among Nigerians in the U.S. risks undermining confidence in the Nigerian government’s ability to deliver essential services.

    He also pointed out the risk associated with the practice of immigration officers travelling monthly to Washington, D.C., to print passports, which poses a threat to national security as it exposes Nigeria’s national database to potential breaches and damage to Nigeria’s Image abroad amongst others. 

    To address the issue, OAN and its partner organizations urged the Ministry of Interior to redeploy the idle printer in Washington, D.C., to the New York Consulate and deploy an additional printer to Atlanta without further delay.

    The groups also called for a transparent investigation to identify and hold accountable those responsible for the delay in resolving this issue.

    They also urged the government to provide a clear timeline for addressing the passport production challenges at the New York and Atlanta Consulates.

    “We trust that this matter will now be treated with the urgency it deserves,” the statement concluded, urging the Honourable Minister, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, to act swiftly,” the statement added. 

    OAN reiterated its commitment to collaborating with the Ministry of Interior and other stakeholders to ensure sustainable solutions for Nigerians abroad.

    The Organization for the Advancement of Nigerians (OAN) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the welfare, culture, and interests of Nigerians living in the United States. OAN works to foster unity and address challenges faced by Nigerians in the diaspora.

  • Contactless passport application as game changer

    Contactless passport application as game changer

    • By Maxwell Adeyemi Adeleye

    Sir: If you’re a Nigerian living abroad, you’ll understand the hassle people face just to renew their international passport. This task that should be a mundane, ordinary task in any advanced country triggers dread and frustration in us. For many years, the passport application process has been marred with inefficiency and corruption; even ordinary logistics was an issue.

    Imagine someone who lives in Glasgow or Newcastle having to travel all the way to London just to have their biometric data captured. Same with people in Canada who have to endure eight-hour long flights to the High Commission in Ottawa just for ‘capturing’.

    Think about the travel expenses, frustration dealing with archaic systems, and some corrupt officials. We have even heard stories of touts charging illegal fees for “express service”.

    It gladdens my heart to see Minister of Interior, Bunmi Tunji-Ojo fulfil his promise of revolutionizing the passport application process through contactless technology. He said his goal was to eliminate the need for physical presence during renewals of passports. Applicants can now pay and complete their application form online. This contactless method will also eliminate the need for capturing again if you have done it in the past. Just upload an approved photo through the mobile app and you are good to go. The inclusion of home delivery of the passport to applicants crowns this initiative with extra goodness. This is a step towards achieving global freedom.

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    Although this approach has been ongoing in developed countries, I am glad to see Nigeria embracing the power of technology to drive innovation and make life easier for her citizens. I am proud to say that what Minister Tunji-Ojo and his team have achieved in such a short time in office is nothing short of commendable. For many years now, we have endured archaic systems that need upgrading, facing a system designed to frustrate rather than serve us. So, the introduction of the contactless passport application process is more than just an upgrade, it is a lifeline and a solution to challenges faced by millions of Nigerians in the diaspora.

    This innovative step will save us time, money, exploitation, and also reduce corruption in the system. It will at least help us regain a semblance of dignity to a process that has long been an embarrassment. It’s a simple example of how leveraging technology can transform governance and improve lives.

    •Maxwell Adeyemi Adeleye,

     United Kingdom.

  • NIS addresses visa-on-arrival application process

    NIS addresses visa-on-arrival application process

    The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has addressed concerns surrounding Visa-On-Arrival (VOA) applications, prompted by recent payment platform upgrades by Nigerian financial institutions.

    The NIS Comptroller General, Kemi Nandap said this in a statement signed by the Service Public Relations Officer (SPRO) Kenneth Udo on Saturday in Abuja.

    Nandap assured the public that all NIS platforms were functional, advising applicants to utilise online applications from home and make payments using bank cards for seamless transactions.

    “The attention of the Service has been drawn to recent challenges faced by the public due to systems upgrade on payment platforms by Nigerian Financial Institutions.

    Read Also: Era of passports scarcity home and abroad gone – Tunji-Ojo

    “The public is to note that all platforms of the Service are functional.

    “Consequently, we advises Visa applicants to apply for Visa-on-Arrival (VOA) in the comfort of their homes, and make payment online as provided on the portal using their bank cards for ease of transaction.

    “Any request for information/enquiry about the Service should be directed to the Service official channels

    “Official website: www.immigration.gov.ng, voa.immigration.gov.ng, X: @nigimmigration
    Facebook: @nigimmigration, Instagram: @nigimmigration, Contact Center Number: 07053401399, 09121900655, 09121556359,”he said.

    The NIS boss assured the public of its firm commitment to continuously ease the process of acquiring Visa-On-Arrival (VOA).

    (NAN)

  • Passport renewal upgrade excites Nigerians in Dallas

    Passport renewal upgrade excites Nigerians in Dallas

    Nigerian community in Dallas, Texas  in United States, has hailed Consulate General of Nigeria in Atlanta, Georgia, for facilitating passport renewals for Nigerians in Dallas area.

    They said the process, which was burdensome due to long travel requirements, has been improved through the efficiency of Interior Minister, Tunji Ojo, and Comptroller General of Immigration, Kemi Nandap.

    A statement by Oluwafemi Kajogbola, chief executive officer of Global Tours and PartyRide LCC, appreciated their support for the community.

    He said: “We also want to extend our appreciation to Ambassador Awalu Jega in Atlanta for his contributions, not only in Atlanta but globally, and head of the Immigration Section at Nigerian Consulate in Atlanta, and her team. Their passport registration exercise in Dallas was a success, particularly for pensioners and other members who would have faced high costs to travel to Atlanta for their renewals.

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    The community is grateful for this initiative, which made passport renewal more accessible.”

     “We commend the Nigerian Immigration teams for their professionalism and commitment to the community.

    “While there may be criticism, we choose to focus on the positive impact these services have had on our community. The gratitude we have received speaks louder than any negative commentary. We look forward to more of these commendable initiatives, and pray for strength and success for the consulate and all those who serve Nigerians living abroad, the statement added

  • Nigerian passport ranking to improve globally, says minister

    Nigerian passport ranking to improve globally, says minister

    Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo has said that the status of Nigerian passport and its ranking will soon improve globally following some reforms undertaken by the government so far.

    Dr. Tunji-Ojo also announced Nigeria’s enrollment in the International Civil Aviation Organization’s,  (ICAO) Public Key Directory (PKD) and Public Key Infrastructure (PKI).

    He noted that the steps so far taken were aimed at enhancing the global ranking of country’s international passport, ease of passage as well as beefing up internal security.

    Read Also: Nigeria’s global passport ranking to improve, says Minister

    The minister spoke in Montreal, Canada, alongside the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Kemi Nanna Nandap, while participating in the Import Ceremony of the Country Signing Certificate Authority (CSCA) led by ICAO officials.

    According to a statement signed by Babatunde Alao, the Minister’s Media aide, Tunji-Ojo reflected on the government’s efforts to modernize border control systems, saying the measure would reduce the waiting hours at airports and other points of entry within and outside the country.

    He said: “Our government is particular about increasing efficiency and enhancing the overall travel experience for Nigerians and international visitors alike.”