Birth Registration for Nigerians Born Abroad
Nigerian citizens can register the birth of their children born outside Nigeria at the nearest Nigerian embassy or consulate. This entitles the child to Nigerian citizenship and a Nigerian birth certificate.
Required Documents
- Child's foreign birth certificate (original and certified copy)
- Both parents' Nigerian passports (originals and copies)
- Parents' marriage certificate (if applicable)
- Completed birth registration form (obtained from the embassy)
- Passport photographs of the child (4 copies)
- Hospital records or birth notification
- Parents' Nigerian birth certificates (if available)
- Proof of parents' Nigerian citizenship
Registration Process
- Obtain forms — Collect the birth registration form from your nearest Nigerian embassy
- Gather documents — Compile all required documents listed above
- Visit the embassy — Both parents should attend in person where possible
- Submit application — Submit completed form with all supporting documents and fee
- Processing — The embassy registers the birth with the National Population Commission (NPC)
- Collect certificate — Collect the Nigerian birth certificate when ready (processing time varies)
Tip: After registering the birth, you can immediately apply for the child's first Nigerian passport at the same embassy. Both parents' consent is required for minor passport applications.
Important Notes
- Registration should be done as soon as possible after birth (ideally within 60 days)
- Late registration is possible but may require additional documentation
- Under Nigerian law, a child born to at least one Nigerian parent is entitled to Nigerian citizenship by birth (Section 25, 1999 Constitution)
- Death registration for Nigerian citizens who pass away abroad follows a similar process