A consent letter is a mandatory document for minors applying for a Nigerian passport, ensuring parental or guardian approval. The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) requires this letter to prevent unauthorized travel and safeguard the rights of children. A free printable template simplifies the process, allowing parents to draft a legally acceptable document with ease. Properly signed and notarized, this letter serves as proof of consent, streamlining the passport application process for minors.
What Is a Consent Letter for a Nigerian Passport?
A consent letter is a formal document that grants permission for a minor (a person under the age of 18) to apply for and obtain a Nigerian passport. This letter is typically signed by one or both parents or legal guardians, authorizing the issuance of the passport for the child.
Definition and Purpose
A consent letter serves as official proof that a parent or guardian has given their approval for the child to receive a passport. This document helps prevent child trafficking, unauthorized travel, and legal complications related to the minor’s movement across international borders. It also ensures that the passport application process follows the guidelines set by the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS).
Who Needs to Provide a Consent Letter?
A consent letter is required when a minor applies for a Nigerian passport. The responsibility of providing this letter falls on:
- Parents: If both parents are alive and actively involved in the child’s life, at least one of them must provide written consent.
- Legal Guardians: If a minor is under the care of a guardian, a consent letter from the legally recognized guardian is mandatory.
- Single Parents: In cases where one parent has sole custody, they must provide a consent letter, along with supporting documents such as a court order proving sole custody.
- Deceased Parent Scenario: If one parent is deceased, the surviving parent must attach a copy of the death certificate along with the consent letter.
Why Is a Consent Letter Required?
A consent letter is an essential legal document in the passport application process, ensuring compliance with international child protection laws and Nigerian immigration policies.
Legal and Procedural Reasons
The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) enforces strict regulations to prevent child trafficking and unauthorized travel. A consent letter acts as a legal safeguard, confirming that both parents (or legal guardians) are aware of and approve the minor’s passport application. The letter is also necessary for:
- Ensuring legal authorization from parents or guardians.
- Preventing disputes over child custody and international travel.
- Complying with Nigerian and international child protection laws.
Scenarios Where It Is Mandatory
A consent letter is compulsory in various situations, including:
- Minor Applying for a Passport: Any applicant under the age of 18 must have parental consent.
- Traveling Without Both Parents: If a minor is traveling with only one parent or a guardian, immigration officials may require proof of parental consent.
- Separated or Divorced Parents: If custody is shared, the parent applying for the passport must obtain written consent from the other parent.
- Overseas Adoption Cases: When a foreign adoptive parent applies for a Nigerian child’s passport, official consent from relevant authorities is required.
Failure to provide a consent letter may result in passport application delays or outright rejection. Ensuring that the letter is properly written, signed, and notarized will make the process smooth and hassle-free.
Key Components of a Consent Letter
A well-structured consent letter is crucial for ensuring a smooth Nigerian passport application process for minors. It must include all necessary details and follow the proper format to be legally valid and accepted by the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS).
Essential Details to Include
To be considered complete and legally acceptable, a consent letter should contain the following key details:
- Title and Subject Line
- The letter should be titled “Consent Letter for Nigerian Passport Application” or a similar heading that clearly states its purpose.
- Date of the Letter
- The date when the letter is written and signed must be mentioned to ensure validity.
- Details of the Minor
- Full name of the child as it appears on official documents.
- Date of birth.
- Place of birth.
- Any other identification details (e.g., birth certificate number).
- Details of the Parent(s) or Guardian(s)
- Full name of the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) providing consent.
- Relationship to the child.
- Contact details (phone number, email, and address).
- National Identification Number (NIN) or passport details, if applicable.
- Purpose of the Letter
- A clear statement that the parent or guardian grants permission for the child to apply for and obtain a Nigerian passport.
- Details of the Passport Application
- Mention that the letter is for a passport application and specify any travel plans if applicable.
- Signature and Legalization
- Signature of the consenting parent(s) or guardian(s).
- If required, the letter should be notarized or signed in the presence of a legal official to confirm authenticity.
Formatting Guidelines
A properly formatted consent letter makes it easy for immigration officials to review and process. Follow these guidelines:
- Use a Formal Tone: The letter should be written in a professional and respectful tone.
- Keep It Clear and Concise: Avoid unnecessary details; focus on the essential information.
- Use a Standard Business Letter Format:
- Left-aligned text for a clean, professional look.
- Single-spaced paragraphs with a blank line between sections.
- Typed, Not Handwritten: To avoid readability issues, the letter should be typed and printed rather than handwritten.
- Notarization (if required): Some immigration offices may require the letter to be notarized for extra legal credibility.
Free Consent Letter for Nigerian Passport Printable
When applying for a Nigerian passport for a minor, the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) requires a consent letter from the parent(s) or legal guardian(s). This letter serves as official permission, ensuring the child has legal authorization to obtain a passport. Below are nine sample letters covering various situations, including both parents giving consent, a single parent’s approval, legal guardian consent, and more.
1. General Consent Letter from Both Parents
Subject: Consent Letter for Nigerian Passport Application
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Phone Number]
[Email Address]
[Date]
The Comptroller General
Nigeria Immigration Service
[Office Address]
Dear Sir/Madam,
We, [Father’s Name] and [Mother’s Name], the parents of [Child’s Full Name], born on [Date of Birth], hereby grant our full consent for the issuance of a Nigerian passport for our child. We confirm that we have no objection to this application.
Attached are copies of our valid identification documents for verification.
Sincerely,
[Father’s Name] (Signature)
[Mother’s Name] (Signature)
2. Consent Letter from a Single Parent with Sole Custody
Subject: Consent for Passport Application – Sole Custody
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Phone Number]
[Email Address]
[Date]
The Comptroller General
Nigeria Immigration Service
[Office Address]
Dear Sir/Madam,
I, [Your Name], the sole legal guardian of [Child’s Name], born on [Date of Birth], grant my consent for my child’s Nigerian passport application. I have sole custody as per [Court Order/Legal Document], attached for reference.
Enclosed are copies of my identification and the custody document.
Sincerely,
[Your Name] (Signature)
3. Consent Letter from a Single Parent Due to Deceased Partner
Subject: Consent for Passport Application – Deceased Parent
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Phone Number]
[Email Address]
[Date]
The Comptroller General
Nigeria Immigration Service
[Office Address]
Dear Sir/Madam,
I, [Your Name], the surviving parent of [Child’s Name], born on [Date of Birth], hereby grant full consent for my child’s Nigerian passport application. My spouse, [Deceased Parent’s Name], passed away on [Date of Death]. A copy of the death certificate is attached for verification.
Best regards,
[Your Name] (Signature)
4. Consent Letter from Legal Guardian
Subject: Consent for Passport Application – Legal Guardian
[Guardian’s Name]
[Guardian’s Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Phone Number]
[Email Address]
[Date]
The Comptroller General
Nigeria Immigration Service
[Office Address]
Dear Sir/Madam,
I, [Guardian’s Name], the legal guardian of [Child’s Name], born on [Date of Birth], hereby authorize the issuance of a Nigerian passport for my ward. I have been legally appointed as the guardian by [Legal Authority], as indicated in the attached legal documents.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Guardian’s Name] (Signature)
5. Consent Letter for a Minor Traveling with One Parent
Subject: Parental Consent for Travel and Passport Application
[Parent’s Name]
[Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Phone Number]
[Email Address]
[Date]
The Comptroller General
Nigeria Immigration Service
[Office Address]
Dear Sir/Madam,
I, [Parent’s Name], hereby grant my full consent for my child, [Child’s Name], born on [Date of Birth], to obtain a Nigerian passport and travel internationally with [Accompanying Parent’s Name].
Enclosed are copies of my identification documents.
Best regards,
[Parent’s Name] (Signature)
6. Consent Letter for Grandparents Applying on Behalf of a Minor
Subject: Consent for Nigerian Passport Application by Grandparents
[Grandparent’s Name]
[Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Phone Number]
[Email Address]
[Date]
The Comptroller General
Nigeria Immigration Service
[Office Address]
Dear Sir/Madam,
We, [Grandparent 1’s Name] and [Grandparent 2’s Name], the grandparents of [Child’s Name], born on [Date of Birth], hereby grant consent for our grandchild’s Nigerian passport application. We are acting as primary caregivers with authorization from the child’s parents, as documented in the attached letter of authorization.
Sincerely,
[Grandparent’s Name] (Signature)
7. Consent Letter for a Minor Traveling Alone
Subject: Consent for Passport Application and Solo Travel
[Parent’s Name]
[Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Phone Number]
[Email Address]
[Date]
The Comptroller General
Nigeria Immigration Service
[Office Address]
Dear Sir/Madam,
I, [Parent’s Name], parent of [Child’s Name], born on [Date of Birth], authorize my child to apply for a Nigerian passport and travel unaccompanied. Necessary documentation, including identification and travel itinerary, is attached.
Sincerely,
[Parent’s Name] (Signature)
8. Consent Letter for Adopted Child’s Passport Application
Subject: Consent for Passport Application – Adopted Child
[Adoptive Parent’s Name]
[Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Phone Number]
[Email Address]
[Date]
The Comptroller General
Nigeria Immigration Service
[Office Address]
Dear Sir/Madam,
I, [Adoptive Parent’s Name], legal adoptive parent of [Child’s Name], born on [Date of Birth], provide my consent for my child’s Nigerian passport application. Adoption documents are enclosed as proof of legal guardianship.
Best regards,
[Adoptive Parent’s Name] (Signature)
9. Consent Letter from a Parent Residing Abroad
Subject: Consent for Nigerian Passport Application – Parent Abroad
[Parent’s Name]
[Overseas Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Phone Number]
[Email Address]
[Date]
The Comptroller General
Nigeria Immigration Service
[Office Address]
Dear Sir/Madam,
I, [Parent’s Name], currently residing in [Country], authorize my child, [Child’s Name], born on [Date of Birth], to apply for a Nigerian passport. Although I am not physically present, I provide my full consent and have enclosed a notarized copy of my identification for verification.
Sincerely,
[Parent’s Name] (Signature)
Step-by-Step Guide to Filling Out the Consent Letter for a Nigerian Passport
When applying for a Nigerian passport for a minor, the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) requires a parental or guardian consent letter to ensure legal authorization. This guide provides a step-by-step process to help parents and guardians accurately complete the consent letter and avoid common mistakes that could delay the application process.
Step 1: Gather the Required Information
Before filling out the consent letter, ensure you have the following details:
✔ Child’s Information: Full name, date of birth, and place of birth.
✔ Parent(s)/Guardian(s) Information: Full name(s), address, phone number, and email.
✔ Passport Details (if applicable): Existing passport number (if renewing) or birth certificate details (if new).
✔ Relationship Proof: If applicable, custody documents, death certificates, or adoption papers.
✔ Travel Details (if relevant): Accompanying parent/guardian, travel destination, and duration.
Step 2: Format the Consent Letter Correctly
A well-structured consent letter should include the following sections:
1. Letterhead (Optional but Recommended)
- If submitting through a legal representative or agency, use an official letterhead.
2. Date and Recipient Details
- Write the date of submission.
- Address the letter to:The Comptroller General
Nigeria Immigration Service
[Office Address]
3. Subject Line
- Example: “Parental Consent for Nigerian Passport Application”
4. Opening Statement
- Clearly state the purpose of the letter and confirm consent.
Example:
“I, [Your Full Name], the [father/mother/legal guardian] of [Child’s Full Name], born on [Date of Birth], hereby give my full consent for the issuance of a Nigerian passport.”
5. Child’s Details
- Full Name
- Date of Birth
- Place of Birth
- Passport Number (if renewing)
6. Parent/Guardian’s Details
- Full Name(s)
- Relationship to Child
- National ID or Passport Number
- Contact Information
7. Declaration of Consent
- Explicitly state that you have no objection to the passport issuance.
- If one parent is unavailable, mention the reason (deceased, absent, legal custody, etc.) and attach supporting documents.
Example:
“As the sole custodian of [Child’s Name], I confirm that I have legal authority to provide consent. The attached court order verifies my sole custody rights.”
8. Signature and Notarization
- Parent(s) or guardian(s) must sign the letter.
- If required by immigration authorities, get the letter notarized by a lawyer or commissioner of oaths.
Step 3: Attach Supporting Documents
To validate the consent letter, attach clear copies of:
- Child’s Birth Certificate (mandatory)
- Parent(s)’/Guardian(s)’ Valid ID (National ID, passport, or driver’s license)
- Death Certificate (if one parent is deceased)
- Court Order (if applicable, for sole custody cases)
- Adoption Papers (if applicable)
- Affidavit (if required by immigration authorities)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To prevent delays or rejection, avoid these mistakes:
- Incomplete Information: Missing child’s details or parent’s ID.
- Incorrect Formatting: Ensure a formal letter format with proper headings.
- Misspelled Names/Dates: Ensure names match official documents exactly.
- Lack of Signatures: Both parents (if applicable) must sign the letter.
- No Supporting Documents: Attach required proof of relationship and identity.
- Notarization Missing (If Required): Some applications may need legal certification.
Legal Requirements & Verification Process for a Nigerian Passport Consent Letter
When applying for a Nigerian passport for a minor, it is crucial to meet legal requirements and follow the proper verification process to avoid delays or rejection. This article explains the notarization and authentication procedures and provides guidance on where to submit the consent letter for approval.
1. Legal Requirements for a Nigerian Passport Consent Letter
To ensure the consent letter is legally valid, it must comply with the following:
✔ Written Consent from Both Parents/Guardians – Unless one parent has sole custody (proof required).
✔ Formal Letter Format – Clearly stating consent, child’s details, and parent/guardian information.
✔ Supporting Documents – Birth certificate, ID copies, court orders (if applicable).
✔ Notarization and Authentication – Legal certification to validate the letter’s authenticity.
Key Legal References:
- Nigeria Immigration Act (2015) – Governs passport issuance.
- Child Rights Act (2003) – Protects minors from unauthorized travel.
2. Notarization & Authentication Procedures
Step 1: Drafting the Consent Letter
Ensure the letter contains:
- Parent/Guardian details (name, address, ID number)
- Child’s details (name, birthdate, passport number if applicable)
- Clear statement of consent
- Signatures of both parents/guardians
Step 2: Notarization Process
A notary public or commissioner of oaths must verify and stamp the letter.
Where to notarize:
- Notary Public Offices – Available in most legal firms and banks.
- High Courts/Magistrate Courts – Offer official notarization services.
- Embassies/Consulates – If applying from abroad, get notarized at a Nigerian embassy.
Step 3: Authentication Process
After notarization, some applications require authentication. This confirms the document’s legal standing.
Where to authenticate:
✔ Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA), Nigeria
✔ Embassy/Consulate of the destination country (for international travel)
✔ Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) Headquarters
3. Where to Submit the Consent Letter
Once notarized and authenticated (if needed), submit the letter to the appropriate authority.
For Passport Application in Nigeria:
- Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) Office – At the passport application center.
- Passport Processing Centers – Locations vary by state; visit the nearest office.
For Passport Application Abroad:
- Nigerian Embassies/Consulates – Submit along with other required documents.
For Special Cases (Sole Custody or Orphaned Child):
- Court of Law – Obtain a custody order.
- Ministry of Interior – Additional verification may be required.
Final Checklist Before Submission
✅ Letter is correctly formatted and signed
✅ Notarized by a legal authority
✅ Supporting documents are attached
✅ Submitted to the correct office
By following these legal requirements and verification steps, parents and guardians can ensure a smooth and legally compliant passport application process for their child.
FAQs About Consent Letters for Nigerian Passports
Here are the most frequently asked questions about consent letters for Nigerian passport applications.
1. What is a consent letter for a Nigerian passport?
A consent letter is a legal document signed by a parent or guardian giving permission for a minor (under 18) to apply for a Nigerian passport.
2. Who needs to provide a consent letter?
✔ Both parents if they share custody.
✔ A single parent with legal custody (must provide court documents).
✔ A legal guardian if the child is under their care.
3. Is notarization required for the consent letter?
Yes, the consent letter must be notarized by a Notary Public, Magistrate Court, or Commissioner of Oaths to be legally valid.
4. What details should be included in the consent letter?
A valid consent letter must include:
📌 Child’s full name and birth details
📌 Parent(s)/Guardian(s) full name and contact details
📌 Statement of consent for passport issuance
📌 Signatures of both parents/guardians
5. Where can I notarize the consent letter?
✔ High Court or Magistrate Court in Nigeria
✔ Notary Public offices
✔ Nigerian Embassy/Consulate if applying from abroad
6. Where do I submit the consent letter?
📍 Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) Office – If applying in Nigeria
📍 Nigerian Embassy/Consulate – If applying from outside Nigeria
7. What if one parent is unavailable to sign the letter?
If one parent is absent, the other parent must provide proof of sole custody, such as:
✔ Court order granting full custody
✔ Death certificate (if the other parent is deceased)
✔ Sworn affidavit explaining the absence
8. Can a guardian provide consent for a minor?
Yes, but the guardian must provide:
✔ Legal guardianship documents
✔ Court-issued approval for passport application
9. Does the consent letter need to be in a specific format?
Yes, the letter must be formally written and include essential details such as names, addresses, and signatures. Using a standard template is recommended.
10. How long is the consent letter valid?
A consent letter is typically valid for 6 months to 1 year, depending on the immigration office’s requirements.
Getting a Nigerian passport for a minor doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right consent letter, properly formatted and notarized, you can avoid unnecessary delays and make the process smooth. Hopefully, this guide has helped you understand everything you need to know, and the free printable template makes things even easier. Thanks for reading! If you found this helpful, feel free to bookmark this page and visit again later for more useful guides. Safe travels!