NRBVN Explained: How Nigerians Abroad Can Open Bank Accounts

For years, Nigerians living abroad faced a frustrating barrier: accessing Nigerian banking services required physically traveling home to obtain a Bank Verification Number (BVN).

This mandatory requirement created significant obstacles for the estimated 15 million Nigerians in the diaspora who wanted to open accounts, invest, or send remittances efficiently. 

That changed in May 2025 when the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), partnering with the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS), launched the Non-Resident Bank Verification Number (NRBVN) platform—a digital solution enabling remote BVN enrollment from anywhere in the world. 

What is NRBVN? 

The Non-Resident Bank Verification Number (NRBVN) is a solution that allows Nigerians living in the diaspora to enroll and obtain BVNs remotely.

Unlike the traditional BVN requiring physical presence at a Nigerian bank, NRBVN uses advanced biometric verification, including facial recognition and liveness checks, to authenticate identity digitally. 

This innovation is part of a broader financial inclusion framework that includes

• The Non-Resident Ordinary Account (NRNOA) 
  
  
• The Non-Resident Nigerian Investment Account (NRNIA)  offers diaspora Nigerians comprehensive access to savings, investments, mortgages, and pension products. 
  
  Together, these products make it possible for diaspora Nigerians to participate seamlessly in the Nigerian financial system.
  
  

Why NRBVN Matters for Diaspora Nigerians 

With formal remittance flows increasing from $3.3 billion in 2023 to $4.73 billion in 2024, the NRBVN is expected to accelerate momentum toward achieving the CBN's $1 billion monthly remittance target. 

The platform addresses four critical barriers: 

How to Register for NRBVN: Step-by-Step Guide 

To get an NRBVN, the intending applicant is to visit www.nrbvn.com, click login and then click sign up below the login page. Here's the complete process: 

Here’s a simple walkthrough of the NRBVN registration process:

1. 1. Visit the Official Portal: Go to https://nrbvn.com.

   2. Create an Account: Enter your email, phone number, and password.

   3. Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Scan the QR code using Google Authenticator.

   4. Verify Your Email: Click the confirmation link sent to your inbox.

   5. Accept Terms and Conditions.

   6. Select User Type:

      • Nigerian (no BVN)

      • Nigerian (existing BVN)

      • Nigerian by descent

   7. Upload Required Documents.

   8. Complete Biometric Verification: Includes facial recognition and liveness check.

   9. Make Payment: Registration fee is $50 (≈ ₦80,000).

   10. Track Application: Monitor your NRBVN status in real time via your dashboard.

Required Documents 

You’ll need the following documents to complete your registration:

• Nigerian passport (valid or expired)

• Proof of residency abroad (foreign passport, residence permit, or green card)

• Utility bill (in your name, not older than 3 months)

Additional documents that may be accepted include:

• Work permit or proof of employment

• Tax proof from your country of residence

• Bank statement from a foreign account

• Reference letter from employer

Benefits of NRBVN 

Costs and Processing Time 

The processing time for your NRBVN (Non-Resident Bank Verification Number) is within 72 hours, that's about 4 working days. The one-time registration fee is $50 (approximately N80,000 at current exchange rates). 

Additional fees for remittance services and account opening are transparent and displayed during transactions on the platform. 

Tips for Successful NRBVN Registration 

• Upload Clear Documents: Make sure all images are well-lit and legible.

• Match Details Exactly: Your names and dates must match across all documents.

• Use a Valid Utility Bill: Must be under 3 months old and in your name.

• Expired Passports Are Accepted: If accompanied by a valid foreign ID.

• Compare Banks First: Use nairaCompare’s Diaspora Account Comparison Tool to find banks that best support NRBVN and offer the highest returns.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Q: Can Nigerians by descent (born abroad) use NRBVN? 
Yes. Individuals who are Nigerian by descent (i.e., Nigerian citizenship of either parent) can use this service. 

Q: Are there remittance limits? 
Remittance limits are based on local regulations and the policies of the receiving bank. 

Q: Is NRBVN secure? 
NRBVN uses robust data encryption, multi-factor authentication, and performs regular security audits to safeguard your data. 

Q: Can I open multiple accounts? 
Yes, once you have your NRBVN, you can open multiple account types, including Naira, domiciliary, savings, and current accounts. 

Conclusion: A Game-Changer for Diaspora Banking

The NRBVN platform represents a transformative shift in Nigerian banking accessibility for diaspora citizens. By eliminating geographic barriers and streamlining identity verification, it opens doors to formal remittance channels, investment opportunities, and seamless financial participation. 

Ready to open your Nigerian bank account from abroad? Start by comparing your options on nairaCompare's Diaspora Account Comparison Tool. Filter by account type, compare interest rates, fees, and NRBVN acceptance across multiple banks—all in one place. Make informed decisions and choose the account that best fits your financial goals. 

For more financial guidance, explore our articles on sending money to Nigeria from the USA and maximizing returns with fixed deposits.