If you plan to run a fintech company in Nigeria that handles payment processing and routing transactions between banks and other financial service providers, you will need a Switching and Processing License.
This license is essential for companies like Flutterwave, Paystack, Interswitch, and others to operate legally.
What Can You Do with a Switching and Processing License?
This license allows your company to:
- Route Payments: Manage the flow of payment instructions between different banks and financial institutions.
- Process Transactions: Authorise and process card transactions, making sure money is correctly transferred between parties.
- Enable Electronic Payments: Help merchants who are not part of traditional banks accept electronic payments.
Who Issues This License?
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) is the authority that issues this license. To be eligible, your company must be officially registered with the necessary documents, like a memorandum and articles of association.
Financial Requirements
To qualify for this license, your company needs:
- Capital Requirement: N2 billion (N2,000,000,000) in shareholders’ funds, free from any losses.
- Audited Financial Statements: For the last three years, if applicable.
- Escrow Deposit: N2 billion deposited into a CBN PSP Share Capital Deposit Account. This must be paid in full and will be refunded once the final license is granted.
Expanded License Scope
The CBN recently expanded the scope of this license. With it, your company can also operate under the licenses of Super-Agents, Payment Terminal Service Providers (PTSPs), and Payment Solutions Service Providers (PSSPs).
This means you can offer a wider range of services.
Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining the License
Here is what you need to prepare:
- Company Documentation:
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Memorandum & Articles of Association
- CAC Forms 2A (Share Allotment) and 7A (Directors’ Details)
- Tax Clearance Certificate for the last three years (if applicable)
- Detailed company profile, including current business operations
- Ownership and Management Information:
- Ownership structure, including any major changes in the last two years
- Board structure, including a minimum of one Independent Non-Executive Director
- Bank Verification Numbers (BVNs), CVs, and valid IDs for board members and top management
- Business Plan:
- Business description and nature of the operation
- Security measures and transaction flow diagrams
- 5-year financial projections
- Transaction fees and charges
- Strategies for system uptime, customer care, and issue resolution
- Competitive advantages and market coverage plans
- Technology and Risk Management:
- Policies for data privacy, backup, and security
- Risk management frameworks and consumer protection strategies
- Disaster recovery and business continuity plans
- Additional Agreements and Certifications:
- Draft agreements with technical partners, banks, merchants, and telecoms
- Required certifications like PCIDSS, PADSS, and others as mandated by the CBN
- Service Level Agreements (SLAs) with sub-agents and financial institutions
Cost Breakdown
Here is a summary of the costs involved in obtaining this license:
| Cost Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | N100,000 (non-refundable) |
| Licensing Fee | N1,000,000 |
| Escrow Deposit | N2,000,000,000 |
| Professional Fees | N7,500,000 – N10,000,000 (Facilitating the process) |
Note: The professional fees help to expedite the bureaucratic process, ensuring that your application is handled efficiently.
Timeline for Obtaining the License
- Approval-in-Principle: This initial approval is granted within 2-3 months after applying and is valid for six months.
- Final License: The final license is issued 6-8 months after all requirements are met.
Can Foreigners Apply?
Yes, foreign-owned companies can apply for this license as long as they meet all the necessary requirements.
They must also register with the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission and obtain the required work and residence permits.
Conclusion
Getting a Switching and Processing License is crucial for any fintech company in Nigeria.
While the process is complex and requires significant financial investment, it opens up many opportunities for growth in the payment sector.
If you need professional assistance to navigate the application process, feel free to reach out.
