Getting a NIN for a UK-Born Child: A Parent's Guide

To register a child for NIN in the UK: apply for the child's NPC record (foreign birth notification if born abroad), make sure one parent has a NIN, book an enrolment appointment, and bring the child with their birth certificate and the parent's passport and NIN. The child must attend in person with a parent or guardian.

This guide is written for parents. For fees and our booking details, see child NIN registration in the UK.

Why register your child now?

The most common reason is a Nigerian passport, which asks for a NIN. Parents who wait until a family trip is booked often find the NPC step takes longer than expected. Registering early means the NIN is ready when you need it.

Step 1: The child's NPC record

For a child born in the UK, apply for the NPC foreign birth notification at foreignbirth.nationalpopulation.gov.ng. It costs $80.00 and is paid by MasterCard. For a child born in Nigeria, you need the NPC birth registration. Keep the digitised certificate number safe.

Tip: use the child's names exactly as on their UK birth certificate. If the order of names differs between documents, message us before booking.

Step 2: Make sure a parent has a NIN

A child's record is linked to a parent's NIN. If neither parent has one, the parent can enrol at the same visit. Book enough time for both and bring both sets of documents.

Step 3: Book the appointment

Choose a time that works for your child, for example not during their usual nap. When you book, tell us how many children are coming.

Step 4: Pack the documents

• The child's NPC digitised certificate number
• The child's birth certificate
• The parent's Nigerian passport
• The parent's NIN
• A debit or credit card

Step 5: Prepare your child

Explain that someone will take their photo and, depending on their age, scan their fingers. Bring a snack or something to keep them busy. For the photo, the child should face the camera with nothing covering their face.

Step 6: Keep the enrolment slip

You receive an enrolment slip for each child. Photograph it and keep it with the child's other documents.

Parents' common questions

Can a grandparent bring the child? Contact us first. A parent or legal guardian is required, and we will tell you what proof of guardianship is needed.
Does a baby need fingerprints? Biometric capture depends on the child's age. We will capture what is needed.
My child is 16 or 17. Which category? Message us before booking and we will confirm.

For a side-by-side comparison of what adults and children need, read NIN registration for adults vs children.

What parents get wrong most often

• Forgetting the parent's NIN. The child's enrolment depends on it.
• Using the wrong NPC portal for a UK-born child. Use the foreign birth service.
• Name order differences between the UK birth certificate and the NPC record.
• Booking at a bad time for a young child, which makes the photo harder.

Timeline for a family planning a trip to Nigeria

1. Several months before travel: apply for the child's NPC foreign birth notification.
2. Once you have the certificate number: book the NIN appointment.
3. After the NIN is issued: apply for the child's Nigerian passport.
4. Once the passport is issued: book flights that depend on it.

Child NIN FAQs