Are you a Nigerian looking to do business with international clients or receive foreign currency payments? If yes, then you need a domiciliary account. A domiciliary account allows you to receive and send foreign currencies, and it’s essential for international business transactions like shopping online.
This article is a step-by-step guide on how to open a domiciliary account in Nigeria.
What is a Domiciliary Account?
A domiciliary account is a bank account that allows you to transact in foreign currencies. It is also known as a foreign currency account. With a domiciliary account, you can receive and send foreign currencies such as USD, GBP, EUR, etc.
Benefits of a Domiciliary Account
Opening a domiciliary account comes with several benefits, which include:
- You can receive payments in foreign currencies from international clients.
- You can make payments in foreign currencies to international suppliers.
- You can hold foreign currencies in your account for future transactions.
- You can easily convert foreign currencies to Nigerian Naira.
- You can make online transactions in foreign currencies.
Requirements to Open a Domiciliary Account in Nigeria
Before you can open a domiciliary account in Nigeria, you must meet the following requirements:
- You must be a Nigerian resident or citizen.
- You must be at least 18 years old.
- You must have a valid means of identification, such as a National ID card, International Passport, or Driver’s License.
- You must have a utility bill, bank statement, or any other document that shows your address.
- You must have a minimum deposit, which varies from bank to bank.
Steps to Open a Domiciliary Account in Nigeria
Step 1: Choose a Bank
The first step to opening a domiciliary account is to choose a bank. There are several banks in Nigeria that offer domiciliary accounts, including:
- Access Bank
- First Bank
- GTBank
- Zenith Bank
- Ecobank
- Fidelity Bank
- Diamond Bank
- Union Bank
You should choose a bank that meets your needs and has a good reputation for customer service.
Step 2: Visit the Bank
Once you have chosen a bank, visit the nearest branch to open your domiciliary account. You should ask the customer service representative for assistance.
Step 3: Request for the Domiciliary Account Opening Form
Request for the domiciliary account opening form from the customer service representative. Some banks may have the form available online, which you can download and print.
Step 4: Fill out the Form
Fill the domiciliary account opening form with accurate information. The form usually requires your personal details, such as name, address, phone number, and email address.
Step 5: Provide the Required Documents
You will need to provide the following documents to open your domiciliary account:
- Valid means of identification, such as National ID card, International Passport, or Driver’s License.
- Utility bill, bank statement, or any other document that shows your address.
- Two passport photographs.
- Minimum deposit, which varies
- BVN
Step 6: Submit the Form and Required Documents
After filling out the form and providing the required documents, submit them to the customer service representative. You may also be required to pay a fee for the account opening.
Once your application is approved, your account will be opened, and you will receive your account details, including your account number and the SWIFT code.
Conclusion
Opening a domiciliary account is essential for Nigerian residents and citizens who engage in international business transactions. By following the step-by-step guide in this article, you can open your domiciliary account with ease.
FAQs
Can I open a domiciliary account online?
Some banks allow customers to open domiciliary accounts online. However, you may be required to visit the bank to complete the process.
What is the minimum deposit required to open a domiciliary account in Nigeria?
The minimum deposit required to open a domiciliary account varies from bank to bank.
Can I receive payments in Nigerian Naira in my domiciliary account?
No, a domiciliary account is only for foreign currency transactions.
Can I withdraw money from my domiciliary account in Nigerian Naira?
Yes, you can withdraw money from your domiciliary account in Nigerian Naira. However, it will be converted at the prevailing exchange rate.
Is there a limit to the amount I can transfer from my domiciliary account?
Yes, there are limits to the amount you can transfer from your domiciliary account, depending on the bank’s policies and regulations.
