Your Bank Verification Number (BVN) is a unique 11-digit code that links all your bank accounts in Nigeria. It helps with identity verification, fraud prevention, and transaction security. Whether you are using MTN, Glo, Airtel, or 9mobile, checking your BVN doesn’t require visiting the bank or using internet banking. With a simple USSD code, you can retrieve your BVN instantly from your phone.
In this guide, we’ll show you the exact steps to check your BVN on all major networks, what you need beforehand, and how to resolve common issues.
How to get Bank Verification Number (BVN)?
- Go to any branch of your bank.
- Fill and submit the BVN Enrolment form.
- Present yourself for data capturing (such as Fingerprint, facial Image etc.)
- An acknowledgement slip with the transaction ID is issued to you.
- Within 24hours the system confirms your application, your BVN is generated, and you receive an SMS for pickup.
What You Will Need to check BVN with USSD
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Registered SIM | Your phone number must be the one you used when your BVN was enrolled. |
| Airtime / Balance | Some networks require a small amount of airtime (e.g. ~₦20) for the USSD code to work. |
| Mobile phone | Any basic phone is sufficient; you don’t need data or internet. |
Universal USSD Code to Check BVN
Dial: *565*0#
This code is provided by NIBSS (Nigerian Inter-Bank Settlement System) and works on all major mobile networks (MTN, GLO, Airtel, 9mobile).
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How to Use *565*0# Step by Step
- Use the registered SIM (the same number your bank account used when your BVN was created).
- Dial
*565*0#. - Wait for prompts or menu options. You may be asked to confirm or enter some details (e.g. last four digits of your account) for verification.
- After verification, your BVN should display on your phone screen. In some cases, you might also receive it via SMS.
Network-Specific Notes
| Network | Additional Requirements / Details |
|---|---|
| MTN | Ensure the SIM is registered. You may need a minimum airtime (≈ ₦20) for the USSD code to work. |
| GLO | Works with *565*0#. You may need to confirm your account details when prompted. |
| Airtel | Use same *565*0#. Mostly instant response once correct verification inputs are provided. |
| 9mobile (T2 mobile) | The process is similar. You may need to enter last few digits of bank account or other verification data. |
What to Do If It Doesn’t Work
- Confirm that the SIM in your phone is the one linked to your BVN registration.
- Check that you have enough balance/airtime. Some networks block USSD calls if there is no credit.
- Try using another network phone (if you used two SIMs when enrolling).
- Contact your bank or NIBSS for assistance if the code still doesn’t work.
Benefits and uses of Bank Verification Number
- It is accepted as a means of identification across all banks in Nigeria.
- It is a valid means of verification across multiple electronic platforms.
- BVN helps Financial institutions to track customers, especially in loan repayment.
- BVN limits Cyberfraud.
- The BVN database is searched to display relevant information about an individual; this is called the bio-data (it includes names, phone numbers, addresses, dates of birth).
- BVN helps reduce queue in Banking Halls.
- Standardized the efficiency of Banking operations.
Summary
To check your BVN on MTN, GLO, Airtel, or 9mobile, the best option is dialing *565*0# using the SIM you registered with. It’s simple, works across all major networks, requires minimal verification steps, and usually shows your BVN immediately on screen or via SMS.
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Note: Your BVN should be kept private and to check your BVN, please do it secretly or personally.
