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Nigeria · KYC

KYC for Nigerian freelancers

Verifying your identity and business is the difference between an inactive account and a live PayKato account that can accept international payments and settle in NGN.

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Why Nigerian freelancers go through KYC

Anti-money-laundering rules and licensed partner requirements apply to every freelancer that wants to receive international card or bank payments and settle to a Nigerian bank account. KYC is not a PayKato choice — it is a precondition of every regulated processor and bank we work with.

The upside: once verified, you can send payment links to international clients, get paid in USD, EUR, or GBP, and receive NGN in your bank account through a licensed payout partner.

Sole trader vs registered business

If you operate as an unregistered freelancer, you can apply with personal KYC: NIN, government ID, BVN, and a personal Nigerian bank account in your name. Available limits and supported payment methods may be lower than for registered businesses.

If you have a CAC-registered business (Business Name or Limited Liability), upload your CAC certificate, status report, and director ID. You'll typically unlock higher limits and more partner options.

  • Personal: NIN, BVN, ID, selfie, address proof
  • Business Name (CAC BN): CAC certificate, status report, director ID
  • Limited (CAC RC): CAC certificate, status report, directors' IDs, ownership info

What to prepare before you apply

Clear photos of your ID — not screenshots. A recent utility bill or bank statement (within 3 months). Your BVN and the bank account you want NGN payouts sent to. A short description of the services you sell and the clients you sell to.

Once these are ready, the average Nigeria-pilot merchant is verified and live within 5–10 business days.

Frequently asked

Can I apply without a CAC-registered business?
Yes. Nigerian freelancers can apply with personal KYC. Limits and supported partners may be narrower than for CAC-registered businesses.
Why do you need my BVN?
Nigerian payout and banking partners use BVN to confirm that the settlement bank account belongs to the verified individual or business. PayKato does not store your BVN beyond what is required to complete verification.
How long does Nigerian KYC take?
Most pilot merchants are reviewed within 2–4 business days after upload. End-to-end (apply → live) is typically 5–10 business days, depending on partner approval.
Which processors and banks does PayKato use?
PayKato is built to integrate with licensed payment processors and banking partners. Specific processors and availability are confirmed during merchant onboarding based on country, merchant category, and partner approval.

Related

Start your Nigeria KYC

Create a PayKato account, upload your documents, and we'll review your application within a few business days.

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PayKato is built to integrate with licensed payment processors and banking partners. Specific processors and availability are confirmed during onboarding based on country, merchant category, and partner approval. PayKato is not a bank and does not hold customer funds.