Full list of 62 licensed IMTOs
The new guidelines issued by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) on International Money Transfer Operators’ (IMTO) operations have created uncertainty over the status of Flutterwave, Interswitch, and a few other fintechs licensed to provide international money transfer services.
The CBN in the new guidelines said banks and fintech are banned from international money transfer services.
However, while no bank is currently licensed as IMTO, the apex bank is silent on the fate of fintechs already licensed to provide the services.
Aside from Flutterwave and Interswitch, other Nigerian fintechs licensed as IMTO include Paga, Xpress Payment Solutions, and Paycom.
The CBN’s database shows that there are 62 companies licensed as IMTOs in the country, including foreign fintechs
What the CBN is saying
In the revised guidelines for the operations of IMTOs, which were officially released on January 31, 2024, the CBN said:
“All banks are prohibited from operating International Money Transfer services but can act as agents.
“Also, Financial Technology Companies are not allowed to obtain approval for IMTO.”
While this suggests that fintechs can no longer apply for an IMTO licence, the apex bank did not state if the fintechs already issued IMTO can continue to operate with the same licence.
Other changes to the IMTO licence
The apex bank also increased the application fee for an IMTO licence from N500,000 in 2014 to N10 million in the revised guidelines. This is an increase of about 1,900% in about 10 years.
The new guidelines issued by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) on International Money Transfer Operators’ (IMTO) operations have created uncertainty over the status of Flutterwave, Interswitch, and a few other fintechs licensed to provide international money transfer services.
The CBN in the new guidelines said banks and fintech are banned from international money transfer services.
However, while no bank is currently licensed as IMTO, the apex bank is silent on the fate of fintechs already licensed to provide the services.
Aside from Flutterwave and Interswitch, other Nigerian fintechs licensed as IMTO include Paga, Xpress Payment Solutions, and Paycom.
The CBN’s database shows that there are 62 companies licensed as IMTOs in the country, including foreign fintechs.
What the CBN is saying
In the revised guidelines for the operations of IMTOs, which were officially released on January 31, 2024, the CBN said:
“All banks are prohibited from operating International Money Transfer services but can act as agents.
“Also, Financial Technology Companies are not allowed to obtain approval for IMTO.”
While this suggests that fintechs can no longer apply for an IMTO licence, the apex bank did not state if the fintechs already issued IMTO can continue to operate with the same licence.
Other changes to the IMTO licence
The apex bank also increased the application fee for an IMTO licence from N500,000 in 2014 to N10 million in the revised guidelines. This is an increase of about 1,900% in about 10 years.
The document noted that any IMTO intending to operate in Nigeria shall submit its application to the Director, Trade and Exchange Department with the following documents, among others:
“A non-refundable application fee of N10,000,000.00 (Ten Million Naira only) or such other amount that the Bank may specify from time to time; payable to the CBN through electronic transfer or bank draft. Approval to operate in other jurisdictions or agency agreement (for all IMTOs),” it said.
The CBN also established a minimum operating capital requirement for International Money Transfer Operators (IMTOs) at $1 million for foreign entities and an equivalent amount for local IMTOs.
Previously, it was N2 billion for Nigerian companies and N50 million or its equivalent for foreign companies.
The licensed IMTOs
IMTOs, or International Money Transfer Operators, in Nigeria, are companies or organizations authorized by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to facilitate the transfer of funds from individuals or entities residing abroad to recipients in Nigeria.
IMTO License in Nigeria: Understanding the Requirements and Benefits
The International Money Transfer Operator (IMTO) license is a crucial requirement for operating a legitimate money transfer business in Nigeria. This license ensures compliance with the regulatory framework set by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and provides a range of benefits to operators. In this blog post, we will explore the requirements and benefits of obtaining an IMTO license in Nigeria, shedding light on the licensing process, regulatory compliance, and the advantages it offers to money transfer operators.
Understanding the IMTO License in Nigeria
The IMTO license is granted by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to companies seeking to engage in cross-border money transfer services. However, it is a mandatory license for entities involved in remittances, enabling them to legally operate within the Nigerian financial ecosystem. Hence, the license ensures compliance with regulatory guidelines, and fosters transparency in the money transfer industry.
Requirements for Obtaining an IMTO License
Corporate Structure
Applicants must establish a corporate entity in Nigeria, such as a company limited by shares, with a minimum share capital requirement as specified by the CBN.
Application Process
Additionally, the application process involves submitting necessary documentation, including a detailed business plan, information about key personnel, evidence of technical capability, and proof of compliance with anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing measures.
Financial Requirements
However, applicants must meet the financial requirements specified by the CBN, which may include demonstrating adequate capitalization, submitting audited financial statements, and providing evidence of sufficient liquidity.
Compliance and Governance
Applicants must demonstrate their commitment to regulatory compliance, including implementing robust anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism financing (CTF) frameworks. Meanwhile, this involves having appropriate policies, procedures, and systems in place to prevent illicit financial activities.
Benefits of Obtaining an IMTO License in Nigeria
Legitimacy and Trust
Meanwhile, holding an IMTO license enhances the credibility and trustworthiness of money transfer operators in the eyes of customers, financial institutions, and regulatory authorities. Thus, it establishes the operator as a legitimate player in the money transfer industry.
Access to Financial Services Network
Furthermore, with an IMTO license, operators gain access to the formal financial services network, enabling partnerships with banks. Similarly, with other financial institutions for seamless cross-border transactions.
Expanded Market Opportunities
On the other hand, the license allows operators to tap into the large and growing remittance market in Nigeria, which represents a significant source of income for many households. Hence, this opens up new revenue streams and business opportunities.
Regulatory Compliance and Oversight
However, holding an IMTO license ensures compliance with regulatory guidelines, reducing the risk of penalties, fines, or legal issues. Therefore, it also subjects the operator to regulatory oversight, promoting transparency and accountability.
Enhanced Customer Confidence
However, an IMTO license reassures customers that their money transfers are being facilitated by a licensed and regulated entity. Hence, this will instill confidence in the security and reliability of the services provided.
Conclusion
Obtaining an IMTO license in Nigeria is a crucial step for operating a legitimate and successful money transfer business. The license ensures compliance with regulatory guidelines, enhances credibility, and provides access to a wide range of benefits. By meeting the requirements and going through the process, money transfer operators can tap into the remittance market in Nigeria. Similarly, they expand their customer base and contribute to the country’s financial ecosystem. As the regulatory landscape evolves, holding an IMTO license becomes increasingly vital for maintaining compliance. Thereby, fostering trust in the money transfer industry.
