Overview: Nigerians living abroad are required to enrol for the National Identification Number (NIN). The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has accredited partners across different countries to carry out diaspora enrolments. If you live outside Nigeria, you must book an appointment online before visiting an enrolment centre. This guide explains how to book your appointment, documents required, accredited centres, and what to expect on the appointment day.
Why Diaspora Nigerians Must Book Appointments
The diaspora enrolment process is slightly different from the in-country registration. Because accredited partners operate in multiple countries, they use an appointment system to manage demand and ensure proper biometric capture. Booking ahead helps avoid long waiting times and ensures you attend an accredited and secure centre.
Where to Start — Official Booking Links
Always begin on the NIMC Diaspora Services Portal. From there, you will find links to accredited enrolment partners who manage bookings. Some of the approved providers include:
- VFS Global — widely used in Europe, Middle East, Asia, and North America.
- National e-ID Card Enrollment Partner (Diasporanins) — covers multiple regions.
- Other NIMC-accredited companies listed directly on the official NIMC diaspora page.
Step-by-Step: Booking Your Diaspora NIN Appointment
- Visit the official NIMC diaspora page.
- Select your country or region and click the link to the accredited enrolment partner.
- Create an account on the partner’s website with your full name, email, and phone number.
- Choose the service (NIN enrolment, NIN modification, or NIN verification).
- Select your preferred centre, date, and time for the appointment.
- Pay any applicable service fees (varies by partner and country).
- Download and save your booking confirmation slip or email. Print if possible.
Documents Required for Diaspora NIN Registration
Documents may vary slightly by centre, but generally you will need:
- Valid Nigerian International Passport (mandatory for proof of citizenship).
- Birth certificate or age declaration.
- Proof of address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement in your country of residence).
- Any other Nigerian government-issued ID (e.g., driver’s licence, voter’s card) if available.
Check the specific partner’s website for the updated list of acceptable documents before your appointment.
Fees for Diaspora Enrolment
Unlike enrolment in Nigeria which is free, diaspora registration typically attracts a service fee charged by accredited partners. Fees vary depending on location and provider but usually range from $40 to $50 USD. Confirm exact fees with the provider when booking.
What Happens at the Appointment
On the day of your appointment, you will need to:
- Arrive early with your appointment confirmation slip.
- Present original documents for verification.
- Undergo biometric capture (fingerprints, facial photo, and signature).
- Review your personal details for accuracy before submission.
- Receive an acknowledgement slip — this contains your tracking ID and is important for retrieving your NIN.
How Long Does It Take?
The appointment itself usually takes between 20 and 40 minutes depending on the queue. After successful enrolment, your NIN is generated within days or weeks. Some partners notify applicants via email/SMS once the NIN is ready. You can also retrieve it later using the official *346# USSD code when you are in Nigeria, or request verification via the diaspora partner.
Important Tips for Successful Booking
- Always use the official NIMC diaspora portal to avoid scams.
- Book early — slots may fill up quickly in high-demand cities like London, New York, or Dubai.
- Ensure your passport is valid (minimum of 6 months before expiry).
- Print your confirmation email/slip to avoid delays at the centre.
- Keep your acknowledgement slip safe after enrolment — you’ll need it for NIN retrieval.
After the Appointment
Once you have completed the enrolment process:
- Monitor your email or SMS for NIN confirmation from the partner or NIMC.
- Download the NIMC Mobile ID App when available in your region to access a digital copy of your NIN.
- When in Nigeria, you can dial
*346#to retrieve your NIN directly on your mobile phone.
Final Thoughts
The diaspora NIN registration appointment booking process is designed to make enrolment easier and more accessible for Nigerians abroad. By following the official channels, preparing your documents, and booking early, you can secure your NIN quickly and safely. Remember — your NIN is a critical requirement for banking, SIM registration, and other official transactions tied to your Nigerian identity.
You can check your national ID details by visiting the NIMC self-service portal or by using the NIMC mobile app. Alternatively, dial *346# on your registered phone number to view your NIN details.
If you don’t have access to your phone number, you can verify your NIN through the NIMC website or by visiting any NIMC enrollment center with your details for identity confirmation.
You need your full name, date of birth, NIN, and in some cases your registered phone number or email to complete the verification process.
You can check numbers linked to your NIN by dialing *996# on your mobile phone (MTN, Airtel, Glo, 9mobile) or by contacting your service provider’s NIN verification service.
Visit the NIMC verification portal or use the official NIMC mobile app to confirm if your national ID is verified and active.
You can download your NIN slip via the NIMC mobile app after logging in with your NIN and registered phone number. A small service fee may apply.
Your ID status can be checked through the NIMC verification portal or by visiting an enrollment center to confirm if your NIN is active and valid.
Yes, NIMC offers online verification services through its portal and the official NIMC mobile app.
You can verify your NIN by dialing *346# on your mobile phone. This USSD service works across all major Nigerian networks.
The NIMC mobile app is the official application for verifying your NIN and accessing your digital ID slip.
Log in to the NIMC self-service portal or the official NIMC mobile app to view your NIN details securely online.
