How to Open a Dollar Account in Nigeria with Ease

By Demilade Oni

January 17, 2025
6 min read
An image illustrating how to how to open a dollar account in Nigeria with ease

Opening a dollar account in Nigeria using traditional banks can sometimes be so stressful. Long queues, having to go there physically at some point, endless paperwork, and confusing processes — it can leave you feeling frustrated and stuck. Have you ever asked yourself, “How can I open a dollar account in Nigeria, especially online?” If you have, you’re not alone.

At Cleva, we get it. We know how stressful it can be to figure it all out, which is why we’ve made opening a dollar account simple, fast, and completely online. No bank visits, no waiting for weeks. In this guide, we’ll show you how to open a dollar account in Nigeria with Cleva, so that managing your money becomes as easy as it should be.

What Is a Dollar Account in Nigeria?

A dollar account, also known as a domiciliary account, is a bank account that holds USD and allows you to send, receive, and save money in dollars. A dollar account in Nigeria is a game-changer for anyone earning in USD, shopping internationally, or saving in foreign currency.

Whether you’re a freelancer, a remote worker, or an entrepreneur, having a secure and accessible USD account can make cross-border transactions more seamless.

In contrast, some traditional banks require extensive paperwork and high fees for opening such accounts. However, modern solutions like Cleva have streamlined the process, making it not only faster but also more affordable.

Why You Need a Dollar Account in Nigeria

If you’re still relying solely on Naira accounts for international transactions, here’s why upgrading to a dollar account in Nigeria is worth it:

  1. Get Paid in USD: For freelancers and remote workers earning in dollars, a USD account ensures you receive payments directly in the currency you work in. This eliminates the hassle and costs associated with currency conversion. This is crucial for maximizing your earnings from global clients. According to a survey by FreelancerMaster, over 70% of freelancers prefer to be paid in USD due to its stability and broader acceptance.

2. Save on Conversion Fees: With a USD account, you can bypass multiple currency conversions that typically eat into your earnings.

For instance, platforms like Upwork and Fiverr allow direct transfers to USD accounts, reducing fees associated with converting payments from USD to Naira. This can save you up to 3% to 5% per transaction.

3. Global Access: Your USD account opens doors to international shopping, subscriptions, and investments without the limitations of local currency.

Cleva goes above and beyond to make your international financial activities not just seamless, but incredibly cost-effective. One of the standout features is our low fee structure for receiving deposits — just $1 for deposits up to $100! In other words, for every $100 payment you receive, you’ll only pay $1 in fees, instead of the usual 3-5% or more that many other platforms charge.

As a result, this can lead to significant savings over time — particularly for freelancers and remote workers who regularly receive payments in USD.

Additionally, Cleva offers free USD to Naira transfers, so you can convert your earnings into Naira without worrying about additional costs. Finally, we keep transaction fees capped, ensuring you have full control over your expenses.

With these benefits in mind, you might be wondering:

How do I get started with Cleva and open my very own dollar account?

The good news is, it’s quick and easy! Let’s walk you through the steps to open a USD account in Nigeria with Cleva and begin enjoying all these advantages.

How to Open a Dollar Account in Nigeria Using Cleva

Setting up a dollar account with Cleva is fast, secure, and user-friendly. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Download the Cleva App

To begin, download the Cleva app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. The app is designed to be intuitive, so you’ll breeze through the setup process.

2. Sign Up and Complete Your Profile

Once you’ve downloaded the app, sign up with your personal details. Be sure to provide accurate information, including your full name, email, and phone number.

3. Complete KYC Verification

For a dollar account in Nigeria, Know Your Customer (KYC) verification is essential. On Cleva, you’ll need the following:

  • A government-issued ID (passport, driver’s license, or voter card).
  • A selfie for identity confirmation.
  • Proof of address (e.g., a utility bill or bank statement).

The Cleva team reviews your documents swiftly to activate your account in record time.

4. Access Your USD Account Details

Once your verification is complete, your USD account details will be visible in the app. You can use these to receive international payments via wire transfers or ACH. Cleva also makes it easy to check your proof of account whenever you need it.

How Cleva Stands Out

Unlike traditional banks, Cleva simplifies the process of opening and managing a dollar account in Nigeria. Here’s why thousands of users trust us:

  • Speed: You can open your account in just minutes. We’ve made the KYC process quick and easy for you.
  • Affordability: With Cleva, you’ll never worry about hidden charges. Our capped fees help you keep more of your money.
  • Ease of Use: If you prefer simple, you’ll love Cleva. You can manage your account and transactions straight from the app.
  • Innovation: We’ve got features like USD to Naira transfers and global virtual dollar card access to make your international transactions seamless.

Start Your Dollar Journey with Cleva

A dollar account in Nigeria is no longer a luxury — it’s a necessity in today’s global economy. With Cleva, you can avoid the hassle of traditional banks and enjoy a seamless experience designed for modern users like you. Join the growing number of thousands of digital nomads, freelancers, and global entrepreneurs who are leveraging USD accounts to streamline their international financial activities.

Download the Cleva app today and take control of your international finances!

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