The NIN (National Identification Number) is your national identity number, issued by NIMC. The BVN (Bank Verification Number) is your banking identity number, created by the Central Bank of Nigeria and managed by NIBSS. Both are 11 digits, but they are separate. Most Nigerians who use Nigerian banks or government services need both.
NIN and BVN side by side
| NIN | BVN | |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | National Identification Number | Bank Verification Number |
| Issued by | National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) | Central Bank of Nigeria, managed by NIBSS |
| Purpose | Your identity as a Nigerian, for government and private services | Your identity across Nigerian banks |
| Length | 11 digits | 11 digits |
| Used for | Passports, SIM registration, government services, banking | Bank accounts, loans, transfers, fintech apps |
| Getting it from the UK | In-person biometric enrolment at a diaspora centre | In person at a centre such as ours in London, or the Non-Resident BVN online |
Do I need both?
- Need a Nigerian passport? You need a NIN.
- Have or want a Nigerian bank account? You need a BVN, and banks increasingly check your NIN too.
- Both? Most adults who keep ties with Nigeria end up needing both numbers.
Can I use my BVN instead of a NIN?
No. They are different numbers for different systems. A passport application asks for your NIN, not your BVN.
Do I need a BVN to get a NIN?
No. You can enrol for NIN without a BVN. If you have one, bring it to your appointment.
Make sure your details match
The biggest practical problem is when your name or date of birth differs between your NIN and BVN records. That can cause account restrictions. If your NIN is wrong, see NIN updates. If your BVN is wrong, contact your bank.
Getting each one from the UK
- NIN: NIN registration in the UK, with an appointment at our London centre.
- BVN: BVN registration in the UK, in person at our London centre or through the online Non-Resident BVN.
Real situations
"I have a BVN from years ago but no NIN"
Very common. Keep your BVN and register for a NIN. Banks increasingly ask for both.
"I have a NIN but no Nigerian bank account"
You only need a BVN if you want to bank in Nigeria. If you do, the Non-Resident BVN is the route from abroad.
"My bank says my NIN and BVN don't match"
Compare the names and date of birth on both. Fix the wrong record: NIN through NIMC, BVN through your bank.
NIN vs BVN: FAQs
Are NIN and BVN the same number?
No. They are different 11-digit numbers issued by different organisations.
Which should I get first?
If you need a Nigerian passport, get your NIN first. If you only need a Nigerian bank account, the BVN is the priority, but having a NIN helps.
Can I register for NIN and BVN at the same place?
Yes. At our London centre you can enrol for NIN and register or update your BVN in the same visit.
Sort out your NIN and BVN in one visit
Book a time at our Dalston, London centre or message us on WhatsApp.