A Tax Identification Number (TIN) is a unique number issued by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) or State Internal Revenue Services (SIRS) to individuals and businesses for tax purposes in Nigeria. If you are looking for How to Get a Tax Identification Number, whether you are opening a bank account, registering a business, applying for government contracts, or filing taxes, TIN is now mandatory in Nigeria.
This guide explains how to get TIN in Nigeria for individuals, businesses, and companies, including online registration, requirements
Table of Contents
What Is a Tax Identification Number (TIN) in Nigeria?
Before diving deep into How to Get a Tax Identification Number in Nigeria, understanding TIN is important. A TIN is a unique 10–digit number used to identify a taxpayer in Nigeria’s tax system. It is issued by:
FIRS – for companies and federal taxpayers
State Internal Revenue Services (SIRS) – for individuals and sole proprietors
TIN is free and issued once per taxpayer.
Why You Need a TIN in Nigeria
You need a TIN to:
- Open or operate a bank account
- Register a business name or company
- File personal or corporate taxes
- Apply for government jobs or contracts
- Process import/export documents
- Obtain tax clearance certificates
- Access loans and grants
Who Can Apply for a TIN in Nigeria?
TIN can be obtained by:
- Individuals (salary earners, self-employed persons)
- Business owners (sole proprietors)
- Registered companies (Ltd, PLC)
- NGOs and associations
- Foreigners doing business in Nigeria
How to Get a Tax Identification Number (TIN) in Nigeria (Step-by-Step)
Below is a detailed guide on how to how to get a Tax Identification Number in Nigeria:
- Method 1: Get TIN Online in Nigeria
You can now apply for TIN online through the Joint Tax Board (JTB) portal.
Steps:
- Visit the TIN registration portal
- Select Individual or Corporate
- Fill in your personal or business details
- Upload required documents
- Submit your application
- Receive your TIN via email or SMS
Processing time: 1–5 working days
- Method 2: How to Get a Tax Identification Number (TIN) at FIRS or State IRS Office
You can also apply physically at:
FIRS office (for companies)
State Internal Revenue Service (for individuals)
Steps:
- Visit the nearest tax office
- Request a TIN registration form
- Submit completed form with documents
- Your TIN is issued after verification
Requirements for TIN in Nigeria
Now that we have explored how to get a Tax Identification Number in Nigeria, these are the requirements
- For Individuals
- Valid means of ID (NIN, Voter’s Card, Driver’s License, or Passport)
- Passport photograph
- Residential address
- Phone number & email
2. For Business Name (Sole Proprietor)
- CAC Business Name Registration
- Owner’s valid ID
- Business address
- Passport photograph
3. For Companies (Limited Liability)
- CAC Certificate of Incorporation
- CAC Form (Status Report)
- Memorandum & Articles of Association
- Director’s ID
- Company address
How Much Does TIN Cost in Nigeria?
TIN is completely FREE in Nigeria, you do not need to pay anyone to get it.
How Long Does It Take to Get TIN in Nigeria?
Online application: 1–5 working days
Physical application: Same day to 7 days
How to Check or Retrieve Your TIN in Nigeria
If you have forgotten your TIN:
Visit a tax office with your ID
Request a TIN retrieval
Or check via the JTB TIN verification platform
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for TIN
- Paying agents for TIN
- Using fake or incorrect documents
- Applying multiple times
- Registering under the wrong category
- Providing inconsistent names or addresses
Is TIN Mandatory in Nigeria?
Yes. The Nigerian government has made TIN compulsory for:
Bank account operations, Financial transactions, Tax filing, Business registration, Without TIN, many services will be denied.
Difference Between TIN and NIN
| Feature | TIN | NIN |
|---|---|---|
| Issued by | FIRS / SIRS | NIMC |
| Purpose | Tax identification | National identity |
| Mandatory | Yes (tax & banking) | Yes (identity) |
| Used for | Taxes, business, banking | Verification |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I get TIN without a business? Yes. Salary earners and individuals can get TIN.
- Can I have more than one TIN? No. One TIN per person or business.
- Is TIN the same as BVN? No. BVN is for banking; TIN is for tax.
- Can students apply for TIN in Nigeria? Yes, especially if earning income or opening accounts.
- Can foreigners get TIN in Nigeria? Yes. Foreigners doing business or earning income in Nigeria can apply.
- Does TIN expire? No. TIN is permanent.
