If you need to change your name on your Nigerian passport, it's important to follow the correct procedures to ensure a smooth and successful process. In this blog post, we will guide you through the steps involved in changing your name on a Nigerian passport.
There are various reasons why individuals may need to change their name on their Nigerian passport. These reasons may include:
1. Marriage: Many individuals change their last name after getting married and wish to update their passport to reflect their new name.
2. Divorce: Individuals who have gone through a divorce may want to revert to their maiden name or change their last name back to a previous name.
3. Legal Name Change: Some individuals may choose to change their name legally, either for personal, cultural, or religious reasons.
4. Incorrect Spelling: If there is a misspelling or error in the name on the passport, it becomes necessary to rectify it by changing the name.
5. Gender Transition: Individuals undergoing a gender transition may change their name to align with their gender identity and may want to reflect this change on their passport.
Before initiating the name change process, gather all the necessary documents that will be needed for the application. These typically include:
- Your current Nigerian passport
- An affidavit of name change, obtained from a court of law or a notary public. This document should clearly state the old and new names and the reason for the change.
- A newspaper publication announcing the name change. This publication should be at least once in a national daily newspaper.
- Original copies of supporting documents, such as your birth certificate, marriage certificate (if applicable), or deed poll (if applicable).
Obtain a passport application form either from the Nigerian Immigration Service website or from a passport office near you. Fill out the form accurately and ensure all the information provided matches the documents you are submitting. Specifically, fill in your new name in the appropriate sections of the form.
Visit the nearest passport office or the Nigerian Immigration Service website and submit the following documents:
- Completed passport application form
- Current passport
- Affidavit of name change
- Newspaper publication announcing the name change
- Supporting documents (birth certificate, marriage certificate, or deed poll)
- Any other documents required by the Nigerian Immigration Service
Pay the appropriate fees for a passport name change, as specified by the Nigerian Immigration Service. Fees can vary, so it's best to check the current rates beforehand. Ensure that you obtain a receipt as proof of payment.
In some cases, the Nigerian Immigration Service may require you to attend an interview after submitting your application. If an interview is necessary, make sure to arrive on time and bring all the required documents and proof of payment.
After submitting your application, paying the fees, and attending any necessary interviews, you will need to wait for the processing of your new passport. The Nigerian Immigration Service will review your application and documents and issue a new passport with your updated name accordingly.
It's important to note that the process may take time. Therefore, it's advisable to submit your application well in advance to ensure you receive your new passport within the desired timeframe.
Whatever the reason may be, changing the name on a Nigerian passport requires following the correct procedures outlined by the Nigerian Immigration Service and providing the necessary documentation to verify the change. It is important for individuals to ensure that their passports reflect their correct and updated name to avoid any complications or discrepancies while traveling or conducting official business.