NIS announced a new emergency document in November 2025, meant to replace the Emergency Travel Certificate that's covered Nigerians abroad for years. It hasn't confirmed a launch date since.
Here's what's actually been said about it, and what to use while you wait.
What STEP is meant to replace
The Single Travel Emergency Passport (STEP) is the document NIS announced to replace the Emergency Travel Certificate. Both exist for the same reason: getting a Nigerian home, or onward, without a valid passport in hand.
The Emergency Travel Certificate has been the standard route for this problem. NIS's announcement framed STEP as its planned successor, not something running alongside it, though it gave no date for when that handover would actually happen.
Who it's designed for
NIS's announcement ties STEP to Nigerians abroad whose passport is expired, lost or stolen. It's a single-entry document, meant for one trip home or onward, not a substitute for a full passport.
That scope matches the Emergency Travel Certificate's own purpose. This isn't a new group of travellers being served. It's a proposed new document for a need NIS already handles.
What NIS has said so far
NIS made the announcement alongside a wider push against migrant smuggling. It framed STEP as part of tighter document control for Nigerians who travel without valid papers. NIS said it would be issued at designated embassies and consulates.
Since that November 2025 statement, we haven't found a confirmed launch date. NIS's own channels are silent on when, or where, STEP will actually go live.
Why you can't apply for one yet
Because NIS hasn't published a launch date, there's no confirmed application route to point you to. Treat any site or agent offering to process a STEP application right now with real caution.
An announcement of a future document isn't the same as a live service. We'll update this guide once NIS confirms STEP is actually taking applications somewhere.
What to use in the meantime
Until NIS confirms STEP is live, the Emergency Travel Certificate process continues to serve the same need. Contact your nearest embassy, high commission or consulate directly for its current requirements.
Our passport fees for Nigerians abroad guide covers the standard renewal route, the better option if your situation isn't a genuine travel emergency.
Common mistakes
- Assuming STEP is already available because NIS announced it.
- Paying anyone claiming to fast-track a STEP application right now.
- Using an emergency route for a routine renewal that isn't actually urgent.
Check NIS's own channels, or your nearest mission, before relying on any claim that STEP has launched. Our passport hub covers the standard routes NIS already runs. If your real need is a routine renewal, a vetted partner firm can help with the paperwork for a standard passport application instead.