Introduction
If you run a business in Nigeria today, especially one that deals with finances, real estate, consulting, logistics, or cash-based operations, you may be required to obtain a SCUML Certificate.
SCUML, the Special Control Unit Against Money Laundering, is supervised by the EFCC and ensures your business is compliant with Nigeria’s anti-money laundering regulations.
Without it, you may face issues such as bank account restrictions, inability to receive large payments, delays with corporate transactions, and failed KYC compliance checks.
This guide will show you exactly how to get your SCUML certificate in Nigeria in 2025, what documents you need, how long it takes, and the mistakes to avoid.
What Is SCUML?
SCUML stands for Special Control Unit Against Money Laundering.
It was created to monitor and regulate businesses that are at higher risk of money-laundering activities.
It operates under the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Once your business is registered, you receive a SCUML Certificate, which proves your compliance.
Which Businesses Need a SCUML Certificate in Nigeria?
SCUML applies to Designated Non-Financial Institutions (DNFIs).
These include real estate agents, hotels and hospitality businesses, car dealers, supermarkets and large retail stores, jewellers and gold dealers, consulting firms, accounting and auditing firms, travel agencies, lottery companies, NGOs and charities, logistics and clearing companies, dealers in luxury goods, construction companies, mechanic workshops, estate valuers, and freelancers handling large transactions.
If your business handles significant cash flow, high-value items, or customer funds, you may be required to obtain SCUML.
Requirements for SCUML Registration (2025)
For Business Name (Enterprise)
CAC Certificate, BN1 or Status Report, valid ID of the owner (NIN, Passport, Driver’s License or Voter’s Card), utility bill (not older than 3 months), one passport photograph, and a brief business description.
For Limited Liability Company
CAC Certificate (RC), Status Report or Forms CAC2 and CAC7 where applicable, IDs of all directors, passport photographs, Tax Identification Number (TIN), utility bill for business address, and a company profile or brief business description.
Having all these documents ready will speed up approval.
How to Apply for a SCUML Certificate in Nigeria (Step-by-Step
Step 1: Visit the SCUML Registration Portal
Go to the official SCUML portal and click on “Registration”.
Step 2: Choose Your Registration Type
Select whether you are registering a Business Name, Limited Liability Company, or Non-Governmental Organization (NGO).
Step 3: Fill in Your Business Details
Provide business name, CAC registration number, contact details, business address, and nature of business. Ensure your details match your CAC documents.
Step 4: Upload All Required Documents
Upload CAC certificate, owner or director IDs, utility bill, passport photo, and company profile. Poor or unclear uploads may delay approval.
Step 5: Submit Your Application
After submitting, you will receive a confirmation message from SCUML. You can track your application using your registration email.
Step 6: Wait for Approval
Approval timelines vary depending on workload. Generally, a Business Name takes 5 to 10 working days while a Company takes 7 to 14 working days. Sometimes, SCUML may request additional documents.
Step 7: Download Your SCUML Certificate
Once approved, your certificate will be available for download online. You can then submit it to your bank or use it for compliance purposes.
How Much Does the SCUML Certificate Cost?
SCUML registration is free. If you hire a consultant or an agent, you may pay their service fee, but the certificate itself has no government charge.
Why Your Business Needs a SCUML Certificate
Obtaining a SCUML certificate benefits your business in several ways. It ensures bank compliance, allows you to receive large payments, qualifies your business for corporate contracts, improves credibility, protects your business from compliance issues, and is mandatory for high-value transactions.
Banks regularly request SCUML before allowing full account operations.
Common Reasons SCUML Applications Get Rejected
Applications can get rejected due to unclear or invalid ID, wrong CAC number, unclear utility bill, business address mismatch, missing company profile, or poor scanned documents. Double-check all documents before submitting.
Conclusion
Obtaining your SCUML Certificate in Nigeria is now easier, faster, and fully online. Following these steps ensures your registration is completed without stress or delays.
Call to Action:
Ensure your business is compliant and ready for growth. Send a WhatsApp message (+234 08111858651) or contact Brand Growth Expert today and let our team handle your SCUML registration quickly and professionally. Get your certificate without stress and focus on growing your business.