How to Get Your BVN Number for Registration and Retrieval

The Bank Verification Number (BVN) is a unique identifier in Nigeria’s financial system, securing and streamlining banking operations. This 11-digit number serves as a universal identity across all banks, ensuring an individual’s financial activities are linked to a single, verifiable profile. The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), with Nigerian banks, introduced the BVN system to enhance security and combat financial fraud. It provides consistent identification, moving beyond traditional methods like passwords and PINs.

The BVN system aims to protect bank customers from unauthorized access to their accounts and helps in the detection of fraudulent activities. This initiative supports Know-Your-Customer (KYC) principles by creating a centralized biometric identification system for the banking industry. The BVN contributes to a more reliable and efficient payment system across Nigeria’s financial institutions.

Registering for a BVN

Obtaining a Bank Verification Number begins with gathering specific documents and personal information. Before visiting a registration center, individuals must ensure they possess a valid means of identification. Acceptable forms include a National ID Card, Driver’s License, International Passport, or a Permanent Voter’s Card. These documents serve as proof of identity.

Beyond identification, a complete BVN enrollment form is necessary, which will be provided at the enrollment center or bank. This form captures essential personal details such as full name, date of birth, phone number, and current address.

With the necessary documents and information prepared, the physical registration process can commence at any commercial bank branch in Nigeria or designated enrollment centers. Upon arrival, the individual will fill out the BVN enrollment form, providing all required personal details. A crucial part of the process involves biometric data capture, which includes fingerprints and a facial image. This biometric information creates a unique link to the BVN.

After the biometric capture and data verification by an enrollment officer, an acknowledgment slip with a transaction ID is typically issued. The BVN is usually generated within 24 to 48 hours following successful enrollment. An SMS notification containing the BVN is then sent to the registered phone number, confirming completion. Once received, submit this BVN to all banks where you hold accounts to link them.

Retrieving a BVN

For individuals who have already obtained a Bank Verification Number but cannot recall it, several methods are available for retrieval.

The most common approach involves utilizing a USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) code directly from a mobile phone. By dialing 5650# from the phone number used during BVN registration, the BVN will typically be displayed on the screen after a brief verification. A small service fee applies to this service, which is accessible across major mobile networks even without internet access.

Another convenient method for retrieving a BVN is through a bank’s official mobile application. After logging into the banking app, individuals can usually find their BVN listed under sections such as “Profile,” “Account Info,” or “Personal Details.” Similarly, internet banking platforms offer a comparable option; by accessing the bank’s official website and navigating to account or profile sections after logging in, the BVN can be located among other personal and account details.

When digital options are not feasible or preferred, visiting a bank branch remains a reliable way to retrieve a BVN. Individuals can approach the customer service desk at any branch of the bank where they first registered their BVN. Providing a valid form of identification, such as a National ID, Driver’s License, or International Passport, will enable the bank staff to verify identity and assist in retrieving the BVN. The BVN can then be provided either as a printout, via SMS, or through email.

Updating BVN Information

Maintaining accurate information associated with a Bank Verification Number is important, especially when personal details change. Common updates include changes to an individual’s name, phone number, or residential address. Each type of update typically necessitates specific supporting documents to verify the requested modification. For instance, a change of name due to marriage or a court order usually requires submission of the marriage certificate or the court affidavit, along with a newspaper publication announcing the change.

Updating a registered phone number on the BVN profile is a frequent requirement, particularly if the original number is no longer active. To initiate this, individuals generally need to visit their commercial bank branch and fill out a BVN update request form. Supporting documents such as a formal request letter and a valid identification document are typically required, along with proof of ownership for the new phone number. This process ensures that critical banking alerts and communications are directed to the correct contact.

Changes to a residential address linked to the BVN also require a visit to the bank. Customers will need to complete an update form and provide a recent utility bill (such as electricity or water bill) that clearly shows the new address, alongside a valid identification document. For all BVN information updates, the process primarily involves in-person verification at a bank branch to ensure the legitimacy of the request. While the BVN itself remains constant for life, regardless of updates, the processing time for these changes can vary, typically taking a few business days for the new information to be fully reflected across the system.