How to Apply for a Nigerian Voter's Card (PVC) in Nigeria

In a democratic nation like Nigeria, your vote is your voice. The Permanent Voter's Card (PVC) is the key to participating in elections, allowing you to choose leaders who shape the country's future. Issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the PVC ensures you're registered and eligible to vote. With the Nationwide Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise kicking off on August 18, 2025, now is the perfect time to get registered if you haven't already. Whether you're a first-time voter or need to update your details, this guide walks you through the process step by step. Let's dive in!

Who Is Eligible to Apply for a PVC?

Before starting the application, ensure you meet INEC's eligibility criteria:

• You must be a Nigerian citizen by birth.
• You must be at least 18 years old on the day of registration.
• You should reside, work, or originate from the Local Government Area (LGA), Registration Area (RA), or Ward where you're registering.
• You must not be subject to any legal incapacity that prevents you from voting (e.g., certain criminal convictions or mental health rulings under Nigerian law).
• You haven't registered before (for new applicants) or your previous registration has issues like not appearing on the voter register.
• If requested by INEC officials, you may need to provide proof of your identity, age, or nationality, such as a birth certificate, national ID card, passport, or driver's license.

These rules ensure the voter register remains accurate and inclusive. Note that registration is free, and INEC encourages all eligible citizens to participate.

What Documents Do You Need?

One of the great things about voter registration in Nigeria is that it doesn't require a long list of documents upfront. However:

• A valid email address is essential for online pre-registration to receive activation links and updates.
• If INEC requests proof during the in-person stage, bring items like:
  • National Identity Card (NIN slip)
  • International Passport
  • Driver's License
  • Birth Certificate or Age Declaration
• For the online phase, you'll need access to a device with a camera (for capturing your photo) and internet.
• After registration, you'll receive a Temporary Voter's Card (TVC), which you'll use to collect your PVC later—no additional documents needed for collection unless specified.

Always double-check with your local INEC office for any location-specific requirements.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Your PVC

INEC has made the process hybrid: start online to save time, then complete it in person for biometrics. The CVR is ongoing nationwide, so you can register at designated centers. Here's how:

Step 1: Online Pre-Registration

1. Visit the official INEC Continuous Voter Registration Portal at https://cvr.inecnigeria.org/.
2. Click on "Get Started" or "Start Registration" for new voters.
3. Create an account using your valid email address (or link via Google/social media if available).
4. Check your email for an activation link and click it to verify your account.
5. Fill out the online form with your personal details: full name, date of birth, gender, occupation, address, state/LGA/ward, and contact information.
6. Allow the portal to capture your passport-sized photo using your device's camera.
7. Select a convenient date and time for your in-person biometric capture at a nearby INEC registration center.
8. Submit the form and print the generated slip—it includes your registration ID, QR code, and appointment details. Keep this safe!

This online step is quick and can be done from your phone or computer.

Step 2: In-Person Biometric Capture

1. On your scheduled date, go to the chosen INEC registration center (find locations via the portal's "Find Registration Centres" tool).
2. Present your printed slip to the officials.
3. Undergo biometric data capture: fingerprints, facial scan, and verification of your details.
4. If everything checks out, you'll receive a Temporary Voter's Card (TVC) on the spot—this serves as proof of registration until your PVC is ready.

If you prefer skipping the online part, you can register entirely offline by visiting a center directly, but pre-registration speeds things up.

Step 3: Collecting Your PVC

1. INEC will notify you via SMS, email, or public announcements when PVCs are ready for collection (usually a few weeks to months after registration).
2. Visit the same or designated collection center with your TVC.
3. Hand over the TVC, get verified, and receive your PVC—it's durable, chip-enabled, and valid for all elections.

Pro tip: Check your voter status online at https://cvr.inecnigeria.org/vvs using your name, date of birth, or Voter Identification Number (VIN).