Nigerians in diaspora can now obtain their BVN remotely through the newly launched NRBVN platform by CBN and NIBSS. Find out the step-by-step process, necessary documents, fees involved, and how this initiative is set to revolutionize financial access for Nigerians living abroad.
In a bid to ease financial access for Nigerians living abroad, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), alongside the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS), has launched a new platform for diaspora Nigerians to register for the Bank Verification Number (BVN) remotely. This platform, known as the Non-Resident Bank Verification Number (NRBVN), represents a game-changer for Nigerians abroad who previously faced the challenge of returning home for BVN registration.
A New Era for BVN Registration Abroad
Launched on May 13, 2025, the NRBVN platform allows Nigerians residing overseas to apply for their BVN online for a mandatory fee of $50 (approximately N80,000). This is a departure from the free Bank Verification Number registration within Nigeria but is designed to cover the cost of biometric enrolment that applicants abroad cannot access physically.
CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso explained that this initiative aims to expand financial inclusion among Nigerians in the diaspora by providing seamless access to banking services and reducing identity fraud.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for NRBVN
- Access the Platform
- Applicants start by visiting the official NRBVN portal at https://nibss-plc.com.ng/nrbvn/ and register using a valid email address.
- Email Confirmation and Account Activation
- Upon registration, users receive a link via email to activate their account and set a secure password.
Two-Factor Authentication Setup
- Applicants must then scan a QR code using a two-factor authentication app such as Google Authenticator, adding a layer of security.
- Select User Status
- Once authenticated, applicants choose their user category among three options: ‘Nigerian, no BVN’, ‘Nigerian, BVN’, or ‘Nigerian by descent’.
Documents Required for NRBVN Registration
The primary document required is a valid Nigerian passport. However, in cases where a valid passport is unavailable, applicants can submit alternative documents such as:
- Expired Nigerian passport
- Valid foreign passport or residence permit
- Work permit or proof of employment
- Utility bills
- Proof of tax payments in the country of residence
- Foreign bank account statements
This comprehensive document list accommodates the varying statuses of Nigerians abroad.
Mandatory N80,000 Registration Fee and Payment Process
Unlike local Bank Verification Number registration, the NRBVN comes with a non-refundable registration fee of $50 (about N80,000). Applicants must pay this fee through secure platforms accepting Visa or Mastercard. The payment gateway, powered by Tazapay, ensures safe and smooth transactions globally.
Once payment is successful, the NRBVN system validates the submitted data, and approved applicants receive their NRBVN within 72 hours.
Impact of NRBVN on Nigeria’s Financial Landscape
The NRBVN platform is expected to significantly improve Know-Your-Customer (KYC) compliance across Nigeria’s banking sector. It will help combat identity fraud, tighten regulatory oversight of fintechs, and enhance transparency of foreign exchange inflows and diaspora remittances.
For Nigerians in diaspora, this initiative marks a critical step toward improved financial inclusion and greater convenience.
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