How to Open Dollar Account in Nigeria Online (2025 Guide That Works)

Are You Searching for How to Open a Dollar Account in Nigeria Online?

If you’ve ever asked: How can I open a dollar account online in Nigeria?, Which Nigerian banks allow me to open a domiciliary account from my phone?, Can I receive dollars from abroad without going to the bank?, or What is the easiest way to open a domiciliary account online in 2025?, then this complete guide is exactly what you need.

Whether you want to receive money from abroad, shop internationally, or save in USD to protect against naira depreciation, a dollar account (also called a domiciliary account) is the best option.

Let’s walk you through everything you need to know about how to open a dollar account online in Nigeria step by step.

What is a Dollar (Domiciliary) Account?

A dollar account in Nigeria also called a domiciliary account is a foreign currency account that allows you to send, receive, and save money in USD, GBP, or EUR.

You can:

• Receive money from abroad via PayPal, Western Union, or wire transfer

• Withdraw in dollars or convert to naira

• Use it for international shopping or business

• Hold funds in foreign currency as a hedge against naira devaluation

There are two major types:

• Cash-based domiciliary account: Requires you to deposit physical USD

• Electronic domiciliary account: Works digitally and supports online transfers

Why Open a Dollar Account in Nigeria Online?

Opening a dollar account online in Nigeria is now easier than ever. Here’s why more Nigerians are doing it:

• ✅ You can receive international payments directly

• ✅ Helps you save and protect your funds from inflation

• ✅ Needed for PayPal, Fiverr, Upwork, AdSense, and foreign platforms

• ✅ No need to visit a bank branch (many banks now allow full online onboarding)

• ✅ Supports international purchases (e.g. Amazon, AliExpress)

Documents You Need to Open a Dollar Account in Nigeria Online

Before applying, make sure you have the following ready:

• A valid government-issued ID (NIN, driver’s license, international passport, etc.)

• Utility bill (PHCN, water, rent, or bank statement – not older than 3 months)

• Passport photograph

• Referees (2) with current domiciliary or current accounts (for some banks)

• Completed domiciliary account form (online or downloaded)

Note: Some digital banks don’t require referees or paperwork.

Top Banks That Let You Open a Dollar Account Online in Nigeria

Here are some of the best options in 2025 if you want to open a dollar account in Nigeria online:

1. GTBank Domiciliary Account (GTDom)

• Can be opened via GTWorld app or internet banking

• Requires 2 referees and standard documents

• Offers both cash-based and electronic accounts

• Low maintenance fee

• You can fund it with USD cash or inflow from abroad

How to Apply:

1. Log in to GTWorld app

2. Go to “Account” → “Open new account” → “Domiciliary”

3. Upload ID, utility bill, passport photo

4. Wait for verification and account details

2. Access Bank Dollar Account

• Supports online application via the Access More app

• Offers USD, GBP, EUR accounts

• Good for business and freelance payments

• Accepts international wire transfers, PayPal, etc.

How to Apply:

1. Download the Access More app

2. Sign up or log in

3. Go to “Open Account” → Choose “Domiciliary”

4. Upload necessary documents

3. Zenith Bank Domiciliary Account

• Offers a Flexi account that allows easy access

• Best for business owners, freelancers, and dollar savings

• You can request for a domiciliary debit card (MasterCard)

How to Apply:

1. Download the Zenith Bank mobile app

2. Choose account opening

3. Select “Domiciliary” and upload required documents

4. Alternatively, use Zenith online account portal

4. UBA Africard Dollar Account (Prepaid)

• No referees required

• Works like a prepaid dollar card

• Ideal for online purchases, streaming subscriptions, and PayPal

• You can open and fund it digitally

How to Apply:

1. Visit the UBA website or walk into any branch

2. Request an Africard

3. Provide ID and passport photograph

4. Fund it and start using

5. ALAT by Wema (Digital Dollar Account)

• 100% digital banking

• No branch visits

• Accepts USD inflow and supports international spending

• You can request for a virtual or physical dollar card

How to Apply:

1. Download ALAT app

2. Register and verify your identity

3. Go to “Create Account” → Choose “Foreign Currency”

4. Done! Start using it after activation

How to Fund a Dollar Account in Nigeria

There are several legit ways to fund your dollar account in 2025:

• USD cash deposit at the bank

• International wire transfers (from clients, friends, or relatives abroad)

• Freelance platforms like Fiverr, Upwork

• PayPal payments (linked with your domiciliary account)

• Buy from Bureau De Change (BDC) or fintech like Chipper Cash, Grey, etc.

Note: Always fund through legitimate sources. Avoid third-party deposits from unknown senders.

How to Withdraw from a Dollar Account in Nigeria

Once you have funds in your domiciliary account, here’s how to withdraw:

• Go to the bank and fill a withdrawal form to get cash in USD

• Withdraw naira equivalent using bank conversion rates

• Transfer to another domiciliary account

• Use a domiciliary debit card for online and POS transactions in USD

• Withdraw to your PayPal, Payoneer, or crypto exchange account

Best Dollar Account for Freelancers in Nigeria

If you’re a freelancer, these are the best domiciliary accounts to open:

• ALAT by Wema – Digital and no paperwork

• GTBank Dom Account – Most accepted by global platforms

• UBA Africard – Prepaid, no referees needed

• Access Bank Domiciliary – Supports multiple currencies

FAQs About Opening a Dollar Account in Nigeria

Can I open a domiciliary account without going to the bank?

Yes, most banks like GTBank, ALAT, and Access allow you to open dollar accounts online through their mobile apps or websites.

Can I receive money from PayPal to my dollar account?

Yes, you can receive PayPal payments if your PayPal is linked to your domiciliary account or prepaid dollar card (like UBA Africard).

Do I need to deposit money to open a dollar account?

Some banks require an opening balance (e.g., $100), but many allow zero opening balance especially with digital options.

Which bank is best for a dollar account in Nigeria?

GTBank, Access Bank, Zenith, UBA, and ALAT are top choices depending on your needs.

Final Thoughts on How to Open a Dollar Account in Nigeria Online

Opening a dollar account online in Nigeria in 2025 is easier than ever. Whether you want to save in USD, receive international funds, or work with clients abroad, a domiciliary account gives you full control.

Choose the right bank based on your purpose—whether you’re a freelancer, shopper, remote worker, or business owner. With the right setup, you can receive dollars without stepping into a bank.

Start today—download your preferred bank’s app and begin your application. If you follow this guide step-by-step, you’ll have your dollar account ready in no time.