How to Get My BVN Number From My Phone or Bank

A Bank Verification Number (BVN) serves as a unique identity across all bank accounts within the Nigerian banking industry. This 11-digit number was introduced by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) in collaboration with Nigerian banks to enhance security and streamline financial transactions. It acts as a digital fingerprint, linking your biometric data and personal information to your bank accounts. Customers often need to retrieve their BVN for various purposes, such as opening new accounts, conducting transactions, or complying with regulatory requirements.

Retrieving with USSD Code

One of the most common and accessible methods for retrieving your BVN involves using a USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) code directly from your mobile phone. This method is convenient as it does not require internet access or a smartphone.

To use this method, dial the specific USSD code, 5650#, from the phone number that was originally linked to your BVN during its enrollment. The system processes this request and typically displays your 11-digit BVN directly on your screen or sends it to you via an SMS message. This service is available across all major mobile networks in Nigeria, and a small service charge is deducted from your airtime balance for each retrieval attempt.

It is important to ensure that you are using the precise phone number associated with your BVN. If the number is not correctly linked, retrieval may not be successful.

Retrieving Through Banking Channels

Beyond the USSD code, several banking channels offer alternative ways to retrieve your BVN. These options often involve direct interaction with a bank, either physically or digitally.

Bank Branch Visit

Visiting any branch of your bank is a direct way to retrieve your BVN. Bring a valid means of identification, such as a national ID card, driver’s license, or international passport, along with your bank account details. Customer service representatives can assist you in retrieving your BVN after verifying your identity.

Mobile Banking Applications

Many Nigerian banks also integrate BVN retrieval into their mobile banking applications. After logging into your bank’s app, you can usually find your BVN within sections like “Profile,” “Account Information,” or “Personal Details.”

Online Banking Portals

Online banking portals provide a convenient way to access your BVN from a computer or web browser. Log into your bank’s official internet banking platform and navigate to your account profile or personal information section, where your BVN is typically displayed.

Automated Teller Machines (ATMs)

Some Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) also offer an option to check BVN details. This usually involves selecting a specific menu option and following the on-screen prompts.

Addressing Retrieval Issues

Customers might encounter challenges when trying to retrieve their BVN, but specific solutions are available for common issues. A common problem occurs when the phone number used for retrieval is not the one linked to the BVN. The USSD code 5650# specifically works only with the mobile number originally registered during BVN enrollment. If your phone number has changed or is not linked, you will need to visit your bank branch to update your records. This in-person visit allows the bank to verify your identity and securely link the correct phone number.

If your primary linked phone is lost or stolen, preventing you from using the USSD method, contacting your bank directly is the recommended next step. Banks have protocols for such situations, often requiring a visit to a branch with valid identification to update your contact details or retrieve your BVN. In some instances, individuals may believe they have a BVN but cannot retrieve it, possibly because they never completed the enrollment process. If you have never registered for a BVN, you must visit any bank branch to complete the enrollment, which involves biometric data capture and identity verification. Protecting your BVN is important; avoid sharing it with unverified sources or responding to suspicious requests, as this helps prevent potential fraud.