If you hold a bank account in Nigeria, there’s an important update: starting January 1, 2026, having a Tax Identification Number (TIN) will be mandatory to operate most bank accounts. This requirement is part of the newly enacted Nigeria Tax Administration Act, 2025, and applies to all individuals with banking relationships.
Good news securing a TIN is straightforward, and in many cases, you may already have one issued based on your BVN or NIN.
Quick Steps to Get Your TIN
1. Check If You Already Have a TIN
•Go to the Joint Tax Board (JTB) TIN Verification Portal at tin.jtb.gov.ng.
•Use the “Search for TIN” option.
•Enter your Bank Verification Number (BVN) and date of birth.
•If a TIN has been automatically assigned to you, the portal will display it.
2. Register for a TIN (if you don’t already have one)
•If the verification step doesn’t return a TIN, proceed to Register for TIN via the JTB TIN Registration Portal.
•Choose the “individual” registration option.
•You’ll be asked for personal details including your BVN, National Identification Number (NIN), full name, address, etc.
•After filling out the form, submit it. The TIN certificate will be issued; you can download and print it.
•Note: registration is free.
What You Need to Know About the Law
The Nigeria Tax Administration Act, 2025 brings this requirement into law:
•Section 8(2) mandates that anyone engaged in banking, insurance, stock-broking, or other financial services must provide a valid Tax ID.
•The requirement also applies to non-residents who derive income from Nigeria or supply taxable goods or services in Nigeria.
•For those who haven’t registered by the deadline, tax authorities are empowered to automatically assign a TIN.
Why You Should Act Now
•Without a valid TIN, your ability to use bank accounts, insurance, or investment services may be restricted after January 1, 2026.
•Completing the process ahead of time ensures you avoid any service disruptions.
•Since the process is free and fairly simple, there’s no reason to delay.
