May 29, 2026 · Nigeria
Nigerian Passport Photo Requirements 2026 – Nigeria Immigration Service Rules
The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) issues the Nigerian International Passport using ICAO biometric standards. This guide covers the official photo specifications, the difference between the 32-page and 64-page passport variants, child passport requirements, diaspora application procedures, and the important distinction between the passport photo and the NIMC National ID card capture process.
Quick summary
35×45mm, white background, neutral expression, no glasses, both eyes fully visible, taken within 6 months. Nigerian ePassport with biometric chip since 2007. Available in 32-page and 64-page variants.
Core Photo Requirements
The following specifications apply to all Nigerian International Passport applications and renewals at NIS offices within Nigeria and at Nigerian embassies and high commissions abroad.
- Size: 35mm wide × 45mm tall (ICAO standard).
- Background: Plain white. No shadows, patterns, or colour gradients. The background must be uniformly white.
- Expression: Neutral. Mouth closed. Both eyes fully open and directed at the camera.
- Glasses: Not permitted. NIS follows the ICAO standard prohibiting all eyewear in biometric passport photos.
- Recency: Taken within 6 months of the application date.
- Colour: Full colour only. Black-and-white photos are not accepted.
- Head coverings: Permitted only for religious or medical reasons, provided the full face from chin to crown is fully visible.
- Retouching: No digital filters or alterations to your appearance.
Nigerian ePassport: Biometric Chip Since 2007
Nigeria introduced its biometric ePassport in 2007. The document contains a contactless chip storing the holder's facial biometric data and fingerprints in line with ICAO Doc 9303. The chip enables the passport to be verified at automated e-gates in countries that support ICAO biometric readers.
The biometric photograph is captured either on-site during the application process or — for applications submitted digitally — may involve a photo upload. In many NIS office applications, the photo is captured live using a controlled camera at the immigration office. Confirm the procedure with your local NIS office or Nigerian diplomatic mission before your appointment.
32-Page vs 64-Page Nigerian Passport
The Nigerian International Passport is issued in two booklet sizes:
- 32-page passport: The standard booklet. Suitable for most travellers and typically carries a shorter validity period (confirm current NIS validity terms).
- 64-page passport: The larger booklet designed for frequent international travellers who need more visa pages. It typically carries a longer validity period (confirm current NIS validity terms).
Photo requirements are identical for both variants. The 35×45mm ICAO white background biometric photo applies to both the 32-page and 64-page Nigerian International Passport.
Child Passport (Under 16 Years)
Nigerian children under 16 years of age require a child passport with a shorter validity period than the standard adult passport. The photo specifications are the same as the adult passport:
- 35×45mm, white background, neutral expression, eyes open, no glasses.
- The child's full face must be clearly visible and centred.
- No caregiver, parent, or toys visible in the frame.
A parent or legal guardian must be present at the NIS office for a child passport application and must provide the required consent documentation. Confirm current requirements with your local NIS office or Nigerian embassy.
Nigerian Diaspora: Applying Abroad
Nigerian citizens abroad can apply for or renew their International Passport at a Nigerian Embassy or High Commission. The photo requirements are the same as applying in Nigeria. Many Nigerian diplomatic missions capture the biometric photo on-site during the application appointment. Confirm whether you need to bring a printed photo or whether a digital capture will be performed at your local embassy or high commission.
NIMC National ID Card vs Passport Photo
The National Identity Card issued by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) uses a different photo capture process from the passport. The NIMC photo is taken on-site at a NIMC enrolment centre using a controlled biometric camera. You cannot substitute a printed 35×45mm passport photo for NIMC enrolment. The Nigerian passport photo requirements in this guide apply specifically to the International Passport issued by the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS).
Nigerian Passport Variants and NIMC ID Comparison
| Document | Photo size | Background | Glasses | Pages |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🇳🇬 Nigerian Passport (32-page) | 35×45mm | White | No | 32 |
| 🇳🇬 Nigerian Passport (64-page) | 35×45mm | White | No | 64 |
| 🇳🇬 Child Passport (under 16) | 35×45mm | White | No | 32 |
| 🪪 NIMC National ID card | Live capture on-site | Controlled | No | N/A |
Always verify current validity periods and requirements with the Nigeria Immigration Service (immigration.gov.ng) or your nearest Nigerian Embassy or High Commission.
Common Rejection Reasons for Nigerian Passport Photos
Glasses or eyewear visible
Remove all glasses before the photo. Prescription frames are not exempt from the ICAO requirement.
Background not plain white
Use a uniformly white background. Avoid off-white, cream, light grey, or coloured backgrounds.
Shadow on the face or background
Stand at least 1 metre from the background wall. Use even front lighting to eliminate all shadows.
Photo older than 6 months
Retake the photo within 6 months of your application or renewal date.
Non-neutral expression or eyes not fully open
Maintain a relaxed neutral expression with both eyes fully open and looking directly at the camera.
Digital filters or beauty retouching applied
Submit the photo without any digital filters, skin smoothing, or appearance alterations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size is a Nigerian passport photo?
Nigerian passport photos must be 35×45mm (width × height), following the ICAO biometric standard. The face must be centred, fully visible from chin to crown, with a neutral expression and both eyes fully open.
Can I wear glasses in a Nigerian passport photo?
No. The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) requires passport photos without glasses, following the ICAO biometric standard. Remove all eyewear — including prescription glasses — before the photo is taken.
What is the difference between the Nigerian 32-page and 64-page passport?
The Nigerian International Passport is available in 32-page and 64-page variants. The 64-page version is for frequent travellers who fill pages more quickly. The photo requirements — 35×45mm ICAO, white background, no glasses — are identical for both variants.
Can Nigerian citizens in the diaspora apply for a passport abroad?
Yes. Nigerian citizens abroad can apply for or renew their International Passport at a Nigerian Embassy or High Commission. The photo requirements are the same as applying in Nigeria. Many missions capture the biometric photo on-site during the application appointment.
What are the Nigerian child passport photo requirements?
Children under 16 require the same ICAO photo specifications: 35×45mm, white background, neutral expression, eyes open, no glasses. A parent or guardian must be present and provide consent documentation.
Is the NIMC National ID card photo the same as the Nigerian passport photo?
No. The NIMC National Identity Card photo is captured on-site at a NIMC enrolment centre using a controlled biometric camera. You cannot substitute a printed 35×45mm passport photo for NIMC enrolment. The passport photo requirements in this guide apply specifically to the International Passport issued by the Nigeria Immigration Service.
Always verify current requirements with the official authority — Nigeria Immigration Service (immigration.gov.ng) or your nearest Nigerian Embassy or High Commission. Requirements may be updated without notice.
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