How to Open Bank Account via USSD
Opening a bank account through USSD can be faster than visiting a branch for customers whose chosen bank supports account opening through its mobile short code. Several Nigerian banks provide USSD account-opening services, allowing eligible customers to start the process from a mobile phone.
USSD account opening is particularly useful for customers who have a basic phone or limited internet access. However, the account type and transaction limits depend on the information supplied during registration and the bank’s KYC requirements.
What Is USSD Account Opening?
USSD account opening allows a prospective customer to initiate the creation of a bank account by dialing a short code. The customer follows the menu prompts and provides requested personal information.
Depending on the bank, the account may be created instantly or the customer may need to complete additional verification before receiving full account functionality.
What Do You Need?
The exact requirements differ between banks, but applicants may need:
- A valid mobile phone number.
- Personal information.
- Date of birth.
- BVN where available.
- NIN or other identity information where required.
- Residential information.
- A valid means of identification for account upgrades.
Open a GTBank Account via USSD
GTBank currently provides account opening through Bank 737.
The published code is:
*737*0#
GTBank states that customers can open an account from their mobile phone and then access other supported 737 services.
Open a UBA Account via USSD
UBA provides account opening through its *919# Magic Banking platform.
UBA currently publishes:
*919*20#
as its account-opening code.
UBA states that customers can open an account in minutes and may later upgrade the account to higher transaction limits.
How to Open an Account Through USSD
- Choose a bank that supports USSD account opening.
- Obtain the bank’s official account-opening code.
- Dial the code from your mobile phone.
- Select the account-opening option.
- Provide your personal information.
- Enter your BVN or NIN where requested.
- Confirm your information.
- Create any required transaction PIN.
- Submit the application.
- Wait for the bank’s confirmation and account details.
Why Open an Account Through USSD?
- No banking app is required.
- Mobile data may not be required.
- A basic phone can be used.
- The process can be started remotely.
- It can be convenient for customers who cannot immediately visit a branch.
Can You Open Any Type of Account?
Not necessarily. USSD account-opening services generally focus on eligible retail account types. Current account, corporate account, domiciliary account and specialised products can have additional requirements and may require branch or digital verification.
Why Account Verification Matters
Creating an account is only the beginning of the banking relationship. Nigerian banks operate under customer-identification and KYC requirements. Your account may have restrictions until the required identity information is completed.
Providing inaccurate personal information can create problems when you later attempt to upgrade the account or carry out transactions above the permitted limits.
Can You Upgrade a USSD Account?
Yes, banks can provide procedures for upgrading accounts after additional identification requirements are completed.
UBA, for example, states that customers who open an account through *919# can upgrade the account to higher transaction limits.
USSD Account vs Mobile App Account Opening
| USSD | Mobile App |
|---|---|
| Can work without mobile data | Requires internet |
| Can work on basic phones | Requires smartphone |
| Menu-based | Visual application process |
| Useful for quick registration | May support more detailed onboarding |
What If You Do Not Have a BVN?
The bank may provide instructions for customers who do not yet have the required identity information, but requirements vary. Do not enter another person’s BVN or identity information.
Security Tips When Opening an Account
- Use only the bank’s official USSD code.
- Do not give your OTP or PIN to an agent.
- Confirm that messages are from the legitimate bank.
- Use your own identity information.
- Keep your SIM secure.
- Report suspicious activity immediately.
What Happens After Opening?
After successful registration, the bank may provide an account number and confirmation message. Depending on the account type and verification status, transaction limits may initially be restricted.
Complete any outstanding KYC requirements if you need higher transaction limits or additional services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a bank account without visiting a branch?
Yes, some Nigerian banks support account opening through USSD or other digital channels.
Does USSD account opening require internet?
USSD itself does not require mobile data.
Can I open an account with a basic phone?
Yes, where the bank supports USSD account opening.
Can I open a UBA account through USSD?
Yes. UBA currently provides account opening through *919*20#.
Can I open a GTBank account through USSD?
Yes. GTBank currently provides account opening through *737*0#.
USSD account opening provides a practical way to start a banking relationship without depending on a smartphone or mobile data. Use the official code of the bank you choose, provide accurate information and complete any required identity verification so that the new account can be upgraded and used according to the bank’s permitted limits.