Renewing a Nigerian passport in Switzerland is a straightforward process provided one follows the current consular guidelines stipulated by the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) and the Nigerian Embassy in Bern, Switzerland.

The process usually involves an online application on the NIS portal followed by a biometric appointment at the High Commission. Below is a breakdown of the entire process.

This blog post will walk you through the step-by-step process of renewing your Nigerian passport in Switzerland.

A step-by-step guide to renewing your Nigerian passport in Switzerland

Step one: Online application

• Visit the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) portal
• Log in or create an account, and begin a new application
• Select “Apply for Renewal/Reissue”
• Verify your National Identification Number (NIN) and passport information
• Select Switzerland as the processing country and the desired booklet size
• Upload the specified passport-sized photograph and fill in your required personal details
• Pay the required fee online and print the payment confirmation and acknowledgement slips

Step two: Appointment booking

• Proceed to the Nigerian High Commission’s website
• Go to the e-passport services section to book an appointment

Step three: Attend an appointment in the Nigerian embassy in Switzerland

At the appointment, present: 

• Old or expired Nigerian passport (original and photocopy)
• Completed online application form
• Payment and acknowledgement slips from the NIS portal
• Valid ID such as PR card or work permit
• NIN slip
• A compliant passport photo 

Biometrics and photo capture will be done at the High Commission.

Step Four: Receive passport

• Pay an administrative fee to the Nigerian High Commission 
• This envelope will be used to mail the new passport after processing

Key facts to know about Nigerian passport renewal in Switzerland

Passport fee

According to the Nigeria Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the passport for different applicants is as follows:

Processing time

It takes an average processing time of 4 to 6 weeks from the date of biometric capture for renewals.

Sometimes, this may vary depending on backlog, special checks, or data discrepancies. The applicant should also allow extra time for dispatch via postal services. 

It is important to apply well before a planned travel (ideally 3 months early) to make allowance for delays and extra checks.

How to avoid delays

Before avoiding delays, one must first understand the reasons for them. Below are common reasons for passport delays and tips to avoid them.

• Incomplete or mismatched NIN records

Tip: Ensure NIN matches all submitted details

• Incorrect photos

Tip: Upload and bring the correct photo both online and to the appointment

• Missing documents (e.g. proof of residence, old passport)

Tip: Cross-check documents with the mission checklist

• Paying third parties 

Tip: Always pay through the official NIS portal to avoid not just delays, but also fraud.

Wrapping up

This step-by-step guide serves as the ultimate comprehensive resource for renewing your Nigerian passport in Switzerland. We've outlined each stage of the process to ensure a smooth and hassle-free renewal experience.

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