The National Identification Number (NIN) is a compulsory requirement for all Nigerians both at home and abroad. If you live in the United Kingdom, particularly in London, you can easily apply for your NIN through accredited diaspora enrollment partners approved by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC). This guide explains how to apply for Nigeria NIN in London, including requirements, centers, fees, and the step-by-step process.
Why Nigerians in London Need a NIN
The NIN is a unique identifier used by the Nigerian government across different services. If you live in London, you will need your NIN for:
- Renewing or applying for a Nigerian passport.
- Banking transactions and opening accounts in Nigeria.
- Accessing pensions and retirement benefits.
- Identity verification for government and private services.
Where to Apply for NIN in London
NIN registration in London is carried out by accredited diaspora partners and official agencies. Some of the recognized centers include:
- Nigerian High Commission, London – 9 Northumberland Avenue, London WC2N 5BX.
- VFS Global London Center – 66 Wilson Street, London EC2A 2BT.
- Dimosco UK Limited – 120 Baker Street, London W1U 6TU.
You can find the updated list of diaspora enrollment agents on the NIMC diaspora portal.
Requirements for NIN Registration in London
Before booking your appointment, ensure you have the following documents:
- Valid Nigerian international passport (mandatory).
- Birth certificate or age declaration (if available).
- Proof of UK address (utility bill, tenancy agreement, or bank statement).
- Recent passport photograph (some centers take this during capture).
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for NIN in London
- Pre-enrollment: Visit the NIMC website or the diaspora partner’s site to fill out the pre-enrollment form.
- Book an appointment: Choose your preferred London center and schedule a convenient date and time.
- Make payment: Registration fees for NIN in London typically range from £30 – £50.
- Visit the center: Attend your appointment with all required documents for biometric capture (fingerprints, facial image, and signature).
- Get your slip: After successful registration, you will receive a transaction slip and later your official NIN slip.
Cost of Applying for NIN in London
Unlike in Nigeria where NIN registration is free, diaspora registration is fee-based. In London, applicants usually pay between £30 and £50, depending on the service provider. Payments are made online during booking or directly at the center.
How Long Does It Take?
Processing times vary by center. In most London centers, you can receive your NIN slip on the same day. However, in some cases, it may take 5 to 10 working days for the details to be uploaded to NIMC’s central database.
Challenges Nigerians Face During NIN Registration in London
- High demand: Few enrollment centers compared to the large Nigerian population.
- Extra fees: The diaspora enrollment is not free, unlike in Nigeria.
- Booking delays: Securing appointments may take time due to high requests.
Conclusion
Applying for your Nigeria NIN in London is a straightforward process if you follow the official procedures. Always book your appointments early, prepare the required documents, and register through approved centers such as the Nigerian High Commission London or VFS Global. Once enrolled, your NIN becomes your lifelong identification number that links you to all government services in Nigeria.
PEOPLE ALSO ASK
Visit approved NIMC diaspora enrollment centers in London or other designated cities, book an appointment online, bring your valid documents, and complete biometric capture at the center.
NIN registration in the UK typically costs between $40 and $50 (about £35–£45), depending on the enrollment agent. Payment is usually made online before your appointment.
NIN is used for passport renewals, BVN linking, banking transactions, diaspora voting (future plans), and identity verification with Nigerian government institutions.
Yes, NIN is mandatory for passport renewals at the Nigerian High Commission in the UK. Without it, your application cannot be processed.
No. NIN is strictly a Nigerian identification system. The UK does not issue NIN; Nigerians can only register through diaspora enrollment partners.
No. Each Nigerian is entitled to only one unique NIN for life. Duplicate NINs are merged or invalidated by NIMC.
BVN can be done at major Nigerian banks with branches in London such as Access Bank, GTBank, Zenith Bank, and UBA. Some banks offer joint BVN and NIN services.
Required documents include: valid Nigerian passport, birth certificate or age declaration, BVN (if available), and supporting IDs like voter’s card or driver’s license.
The UK does not issue a national ID card. Residents use passports, driving licenses, or biometric residence permits (BRP) as official identification.
You can obtain your NIN outside Nigeria by enrolling at official NIMC diaspora centers. After biometric capture, your NIN slip will be issued immediately or within a few days.
