If you are a Nigerian citizen and you want to travel abroad, you will need a passport. A passport is an official document that certifies your identity and citizenship and allows you to enter and exit other countries. But did you know that there are different types of passports in Nigeria?
In this article, we will explain the five types of Nigerian passports, their differences, similarities, validity, cost, and how to apply for them or renew them.
The Five Types of Nigerian Passports
According to the Nigerian Immigration Service, there are five Passport Types in Nigeria:
- Standard passport (green cover): This is the most common type of passport that is issued to the general public. It is also known as the international passport or the Type P passport. It has a maximum validity of 10 years and a minimum of 5 years, depending on the age of the applicant.
It comes in two variants: 32 pages and 64 pages. The 32-page passport costs N25,000 while the 64-page passport costs N35,000 for five years of validity. The 64-page passport with 10-year validity costs N70,000. The standard passport is suitable for most travelers who do not have any special status or affiliation with the government.
2. Official passport (blue cover): This is the type of passport that is issued to government officials and employees of government agencies and parastatals. It is also known as the Type S passport. It has a validity of five years and it is free of charge. The official passport is used for official purposes only and it grants some privileges and exemptions to the holder, such as visa waivers and diplomatic treatment in some countries. The official passport is not meant for personal or leisure travel.
3. Diplomatic passport (red cover): This is the type of passport that is issued to diplomats and high-ranking government officials, such as the president, vice president, governors, ministers, ambassadors, consuls, and judges. It is also known as the Type D passport. It has a validity of 10 years and it is free of charge.
The diplomatic passport is the most prestigious and powerful type of passport, as it grants diplomatic immunity and protection to the holder. It also allows visa-free access to over 69 countries and territories, according to Passport Index. The diplomatic passport is strictly for diplomatic and official duties and it cannot be used for personal or commercial purposes.
4. Seaman’s passport (maroon cover): This is the type of passport that is issued to seafarers and sailors who work on ships and vessels. It is also known as the Type C passport. It has a validity of five years, and it costs N25,000. The seaman’s passport is used to facilitate the movement and clearance of seafarers at ports and harbors. It also serves as a proof of identity and employment for seafarers. The seaman’s passport is not valid for regular travel, and it must be accompanied by a valid standard passport.
5. Pilgrim’s passport (variable cover): This is the type of passport that is issued to pilgrims who are traveling to holy lands, such as Mecca and Jerusalem. It is also known as the Type H passport. It has a validity of six months, and it costs N8,750. The pilgrim’s passport is used to identify and monitor the movement of pilgrims during their religious journeys.
It also grants some concessions and benefits to the pilgrims, such as reduced airfares and accommodation fees. The pilgrim’s passport does not have a fixed cover color, as it changes every year for security reasons. It is not valid for regular travel, and it must be accompanied by a valid standard passport.
Difference between a 32 page and 64 page passports in Nigeria
The main difference between 32 pages and 64 pages passports in Nigeria is the number of pages available for visa stamps and endorsements. A 32-page passport has 32 pages, while a 64-page passport has 64 pages.
The more pages you have, the more countries you can visit without having to renew your passport. However, a 64-page passport also costs more than a 32-page passport. The choice of passport size depends on your travel frequency and budget
| Passport Type | Validity | Cost/fee | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard (green) | 5 or 10 years | N25,000 (32 pages, 5 years) N35,000 (64 pages, 5 years) N70,000 (64 pages, 10 years) | General public |
| Official (blue) | 5 years | Free | Government officials and employees |
| Diplomatic (red) | 10 years | Free | Diplomats and high-ranking government officials |
| Seaman’s (maroon) | 5 years | N25,000 | Seafarers and sailors |
| Pilgrim’s (variable) | 6 months | N8,750 | Pilgrims to holy lands |
Questions and Answers
- Q: What is the difference between a passport and an e-passport?
- A: A passport is a physical document that certifies your identity and citizenship, while an e-passport is a passport that has an electronic chip embedded in it. The chip contains biometric and personal data that can be scanned and verified by immigration authorities. All Nigerian passports are e-passports, as they have been issued since 2007.
- Q: How can I renew my Nigerian passport?
- A: To renew your Nigerian passport, you will need to follow the same steps as applying for a new one. You will need to fill out an online application form, pay the passport fee, book an appointment for biometric capture and interview, and collect your passport when it is ready. You will also need to submit your old passport for cancellation.
- Q: Can I have more than one type of Nigerian passport at the same time?
- A: Yes, you can have more than one type of Nigerian passport at the same time, as long as they are for different purposes and categories. For example, you can have a standard passport and an official passport, or a standard passport and a seaman’s passport. However, you cannot have two standard passports or two official passports at the same time.
Wrapping up
Nigerian passports are essential documents for Nigerian citizens who want to travel abroad. There are different types of passports for different purposes and categories of people. In this article, we have explained the five types of Nigerian passports, their differences, similarities, validity, cost, and how to apply for them.