How to Open Payoneer Account in Nigeria (2025 Step-by-Step Guide)

How to Open Payoneer Account in Nigeria (2025 Step-by-Step Guide)
Are you a freelancer, digital marketer, affiliate, or business owner in Nigeria looking for an easy way to receive international payments? One of the most reliable platforms for cross-border payments is Payoneer. It has become the go-to option for millions of freelancers, online sellers, and entrepreneurs who need to receive payments from clients and platforms abroad.
In this guide, we’ll explain how to open a Payoneer account in Nigeria, step-by-step, the requirements, how to withdraw your Payoneer funds in Nigeria, and how to get a Payoneer Mastercard.
Why Payoneer is Popular in Nigeria
Many Nigerians prefer Payoneer over other payment platforms like PayPal, mainly because:
- PayPal is restricted in Nigeria for receiving payments, while Payoneer works smoothly.
- Payoneer provides multi-currency accounts (USD, GBP, EUR, CAD, AUD, etc.) so you can get paid like a local in multiple countries.
- You can withdraw directly to your Nigerian bank account (either in Naira or USD through a domiciliary account).
- A Payoneer Mastercard allows you to withdraw from ATMs or pay online globally.
- Works with popular freelance platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, Freelancer, Amazon, Airbnb, and more.
Requirements to Open Payoneer Account in Nigeria
Before you start, make sure you have the following:
- Valid government-issued ID – National ID card (NIN), International Passport, or Driver’s License.
- Active email address.
- Nigerian phone number.
- Bank account in Nigeria – (either a savings/current account in Naira or a domiciliary account for USD).
- Proof of address – recent utility bill, tenancy agreement, or bank statement.
- You must be 18 years or older.
Step-by-Step Guide to Open a Payoneer Account in Nigeria
1. Visit Payoneer Website
Go to www.payoneer.com and click “Sign Up” or download the Payoneer mobile app.
2. Choose Your Account Type
Select the option that suits you best:
- Freelancer/Service Provider – for freelancers and remote workers.
- Online Seller – for Amazon, eBay, or Shopify sellers.
- Affiliate/Marketer – for affiliate marketers receiving commissions.
- Business Account – for registered companies.
3. Fill in Personal Details
Provide accurate details:
- Full name (must match your ID and bank account)
- Date of birth
- Email address and password
- Residential address (must match proof of address)
- Phone number
4. Verify Your Email
- Check your inbox and confirm your email address.
5. Provide Security & Identity Details
- Choose a security question/answer for account safety.
- Enter ID details (National ID, Passport, or Driver’s License).
6. Link Your Nigerian Bank Account
Enter your bank details:
- Bank name
- Account number
- Account holder name (must match your ID)
- For domiciliary accounts, add SWIFT/BIC code.
7. Upload Verification Documents
- You’ll need to upload:
- Valid government-issued ID.
- Proof of address (bank statement, NEPA bill, or tenancy agreement).
8. Submit & Wait for Approval
After completing registration, Payoneer will review your details. Approval usually takes 24 hours to 3 business days. Once approved, you’ll get a confirmation email.
How to Get Payoneer Mastercard in Nigeria
The Payoneer Prepaid Mastercard makes it easier to access your funds. Here’s how to qualify:
1. You must have received at least $100 in payments within the last 6 months (not via PayPal or other e-wallets).
2. Log in to your Payoneer dashboard and request the card.
3. The card will be shipped to your Nigerian address (2–3 weeks on average).
4. Once received, activate it inside your Payoneer account.
With the Mastercard, you can withdraw from ATMs worldwide, make online purchases, and shop both locally and internationally.
How to Withdraw Money from Payoneer in Nigeria
After opening your Payoneer account, withdrawing your funds is easy. There are two main methods:
1. Withdraw Directly to Your Bank Account
- Log in to your Payoneer dashboard.
- Click “Withdraw to Bank”.
- Enter withdrawal amount and select your linked bank account.
- Funds are sent to your Nigerian bank in 1–3 business days.
- You can choose to withdraw in Naira or in USD (if you have a domiciliary account).
2. Withdraw with Payoneer Mastercard
If you have a Payoneer Mastercard, simply:
- Insert it into any Mastercard-enabled ATM.
- Withdraw cash instantly (fees may apply).
- Use the card for online shopping or POS transactions.
Payoneer Nigeria: Tips to Avoid Account Issues
- Always make sure your bank details match your ID name.
- Do not use fake or mismatched addresses during sign-up.
- If your ID is rejected, try using an International Passport—it’s the most accepted.
- Use a domiciliary account for better conversion rates in USD.
- Keep your documents updated to prevent restrictions.
Payoneer vs PayPal in Nigeria
Feature | Payoneer | PayPal |
---|---|---|
Send Payment | ✅ Yes, fully supported | ✅ Yes, fully supported |
Receive Payments | ✅ Yes, fully supported | ❌ Limited (cannot receive directly in Nigeria) |
Currencies Supported | USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, more | USD, EUR, GBP, limited |
Withdraw to Nigerian Banks | ✅ Supported | ❌ Not supported |
Mastercard/ATM Access | ✅ Available | ❌ Not available |
Best For | Freelancers, Online sellers, affiliates | Online shopping, sending payments |
Clearly, Payoneer is the better choice for Nigerians who want to receive payments from abroad.
Final Thoughts
Opening a Payoneer account in Nigeria is simple if you follow the steps above. Once verified, you can start receiving payments from clients worldwide, link your account to freelance platforms like Fiverr or Upwork, withdraw directly to your bank account, or use the Mastercard for easy access.
Whether you are a freelancer, digital entrepreneur, affiliate marketer, or small business owner, Payoneer gives you the financial freedom to operate globally from Nigeria.
So if you’re still struggling with international payments, it’s time to create your Payoneer account today and start receiving your earnings with ease.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Payoneer in Nigeria
1. Can I open a Payoneer account in Nigeria?
Yes. Payoneer is available in Nigeria. You can sign up online with your email, ID, phone number, and bank account.
2. Can I use my NIN slip to verify Payoneer?
No. Payoneer does not accept the temporary NIN slip. You must use the National ID card (plastic), International Passport, or Driver’s License for verification.
3. Which banks in Nigeria work with Payoneer?
All major Nigerian banks support Payoneer withdrawals, including GTBank, Zenith, Access, UBA, First Bank, Sterling Bank, FCMB, and others. Both Naira and domiciliary accounts can be linked.
4. How long does it take to withdraw from Payoneer to a Nigerian bank?
Withdrawals usually take 1–3 business days, but in some cases, it may reflect the same day.
5. Can I get a Payoneer Mastercard in Nigeria?
Yes. After receiving at least $100 into your Payoneer account (from clients or platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, Amazon, etc.), you can request the Payoneer Prepaid Mastercard.
6. What is the minimum withdrawal amount on Payoneer in Nigeria?
The minimum withdrawal is usually $50, but this may vary depending on your account type and linked bank.
7. Does Payoneer have an office in Nigeria?
No, Payoneer does not currently have a physical office in Nigeria. However, all services are fully available online, and customer support is handled via email or live chat.
8. Can I use Payoneer instead of PayPal in Nigeria?
Yes. Unlike PayPal, which restricts Nigerians from receiving payments, Payoneer allows you to receive, withdraw, and spend internationally.
9. How can I withdraw Payoneer funds in Nigeria?
You can withdraw funds directly to your bank account (Naira or domiciliary) or use the Payoneer Mastercard to withdraw at ATMs or make purchases.
10. Is Payoneer safe for Nigerians?
Yes. Payoneer is a trusted and secure platform, used by millions of freelancers and businesses worldwide. Always ensure your details match your bank and ID to avoid restrictions.