Can You Use One BVN for Two Different Banks? (Full Guide)

Can You Use One BVN for Two Different Banks 

Can one BVN work for two banks in Nigeria? Learn how BVN links multiple accounts, its benefits, and how to use it across GTBank, Access, Zenith, First Bank, and more.

If you’ve ever tried opening a new bank account in Nigeria, you’ll know that the Bank Verification Number (BVN) is a mandatory requirement. Since its introduction by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) in 2014, BVN has become the single most important identity code for banking in the country.

But a common question many Nigerians ask is: Can you use one BVN for two different banks? The short answer is yes — one BVN can be linked to multiple accounts across different banks. This guide explains how it works, why it matters, and how to manage it effectively.

Can One BVN Work for Multiple Banks?

Yes, one BVN can be used for two or more banks in Nigeria. The BVN system was designed as a universal identifier, meaning once you have a BVN, you don’t need to register for another when opening a new bank account.

For example:

• If you opened your first account with GTBank, you can still use the same BVN to open an account with Access Bank, Zenith Bank, or First Bank.
• All your accounts across different banks will be linked under one BVN profile.

You can read more about BVN policy on the Central Bank of Nigeria website.

Benefits of Using One BVN Across Banks

Linking multiple accounts under one BVN provides several advantages:

• Fraud Prevention: Banks can easily verify your identity, reducing the risk of impersonation.
• Unified Identity: You don’t need to memorize multiple IDs — just one BVN works for all banks.
• Easier Loan Applications: Banks can view your credit history across institutions.
• Account Recovery: If you forget an account number, your BVN can be used to trace it.

How to Link Your BVN to Another Bank

If you already have a BVN but want to open a new account in a different bank, here’s what to do:

1. Provide Your Existing BVN: During registration, simply supply your BVN.
2. Biometric Verification: The new bank may capture your fingerprint to confirm your identity.
3. Account Linking: The bank updates its records and links the new account to your BVN profile.

For example, when opening a new account with Access Bank, you’ll only need your existing BVN, not a new one.

What Happens If You Try to Register for a New BVN?

The BVN system only allows one unique identity per individual. If you try to enroll again, the system will flag it as a duplicate. Banks will then advise you to use your existing BVN instead.

How to Retrieve Your BVN

If you forget your BVN, you can retrieve it in several ways:

• Mobile Apps: GTBank, Access, Zenith, and First Bank apps all display BVN under account details.
• USSD Code: Dial 5650# (₦20 charge applies).
• Bank Branch: Visit your bank with a valid ID card to request your BVN.

So, can you use one BVN for two different banks? Absolutely. In fact, that’s the main purpose of the BVN system — to make your financial identity universal across all Nigerian banks.

With a single BVN, you can open accounts with GTBank, Access, Zenith, First Bank, or any other bank without stress. Just remember to keep your BVN safe and only provide it through official banking channels.

To make things easier, download your bank’s official mobile app (from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store) so your BVN is always at your fingertips.