Nigerian Immigration Service (“we”, “us”, or “our”) operates digital platforms including the https://www.immigration.gov.ng website, online visa portals, mobile applications, and related electronic systems (the “Services”).
This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, store, disclose, and protect your personal data when you interact with our Services. It also outlines your rights under applicable Nigerian data protection laws, including the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA) 2023, and international best practices.

Your privacy is important to us and we take it seriously. Please read this Privacy Policy carefully to understand how we collect, use, and protect your Personally Identifiable Information (PII) and other data in line with applicable Nigerian data protection laws and international best practices.

2. Consent
By accessing or using our Services, you agree to the collection and use of your information in accordance with this Privacy Policy. If you do not agree, you must not use our platforms. You may withdraw consent at any time by contacting our Data Protection Officer.

3. Definitions
• Service refers to all digital platforms operated by the Nigerian Immigration Service.
• Personal Data means any information that identifies or can be used to identify an individual, including but not limited to full name, date of birth, passport number, or biometric data.
• Usage Data refers to data collected automatically, including browser type, IP address, and duration of visits.
• Cookies are small data files stored on your device.
• Data Controller is the Nigerian Immigration Service, which determines the purposes and means of processing personal data.
• Data Processor is any third party that processes personal data on behalf of NIS.
• Data Subject is any individual using our Services.

4. Information We Collect
We may collect the following types of data:
Personal Data
• Full name, gender, nationality
• Passport and visa details
• Contact information (email, phone number, address)
• Biometrics (facial image, fingerprints)
• Documentation uploads (e.g., invitation letters, CERPAC forms)
• Employment and travel history

Usage Data
• IP address, browser type/version
• Date and time of visit
• Pages viewed and time spent
• Device identifiers and operating system

5. Location Data
We may collect geolocation data to verify your proximity to certain borders or offices, with your permission.
Why We Collect and Process Your Data
We process your data to:
• Provide access to NIS services (e.g., visa applications, passport issuance)
• Verify identity and eligibility
• Manage immigration records and control
• Improve system performance and security
• Comply with legal and regulatory obligations
• Conduct analytics and research
• Detect fraud and prevent misuse of services

6. Legal Basis for Processing
We process your personal data under the following legal grounds:
• Consent (e.g., marketing or account creation)
• Legal obligation (e.g., immigration checks)
• Public interest or exercise of official authority
• Legitimate interests of national security, fraud prevention, or public safety

7. Retention of Data
We retain your Personal Data for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes outlined in this policy or to comply with legal obligations. Usage Data may be kept for shorter periods, except where needed for security or analytics.

8. Sharing Your Information
Your personal data may be shared with:
• Government agencies and ministries (e.g., Ministry of Interior, security services)
• Service providers under contractual data protection obligations
• International immigration or border authorities, where legally required
• Law enforcement, in response to valid requests or legal processes
• We do not sell or trade your information to third parties.

9. Transfer of Data
Your information may be transferred and processed outside Nigeria only where necessary for service provision or international cooperation. All transfers will be done under adequate legal and security safeguards.

10. Security of Data
We implement industry-standard safeguards, including:
• Secure servers and firewalls
• Biometric encryption
• Multi-factor authentication
• Role-based access control
• Regular audits and monitoring

Despite our efforts, no transmission over the internet is fully secure. You use the Services at your own risk.

11. Cookies and Tracking Technologies
We use cookies to:
• Manage sessions and logins
• Store user preferences
• Monitor platform performance
• Improve user experience

You can disable cookies in your browser settings, but this may limit service functionality.

12. Third-Party Services
We may use third-party tools for:
• Analytics (e.g., Google Analytics)
• Email communication
• Payment and processing services (e.g., for visa fees)

These providers are bound by confidentiality agreements and privacy regulations.

13. Your Rights
As a user, you have the right to:
• Access and correct your personal data
• Withdraw consent
• Request deletion or restriction of your data
• Object to processing for direct marketing
• File a complaint with the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC)

Please contact our Data Protection Officer to exercise your rights.

14. Changes to this Privacy Policy
We may update this policy periodically. We will post the revised version with a new “Last Updated” date. Continued use of the Services after changes indicates your acceptance.