The Export license registration in Nigeria is a key requirement for all exporters of various kinds of products that are excluded from Oil and Gas.
Just like CAC regulates companies in Nigeria, the Nigerian Export Promotion Council is another Federal Government agency that is saddled with the responsibility of regulating, licensing and monitoring all companies that export products outside Nigeria.
Whether you’re exporting agricultural products, minerals, or manufactured goods, a valid export license ensures compliance with Nigerian trade regulations and unlocks access to global opportunities.
If you are just getting started with exportation in Nigeria, this article will serve as a guide to not just applying for an export license, but also staying compliant.
What is an Export License?
The export license is a certified and legal document that is issued by the Nigerian Export Promotion Council. It grants the permit and jurisdiction for companies to export products outside the country.
It is important to note that NEPC only regulates all other products, exception to oil and gas. This means this export license can not be used to export crude oil and gas.
Why You Need an Export License in Nigeria
Export is a key factor that facilitates international trade. The export license not only grants businesses the right and access to export products, but it also enhances the country’s international relations with other countries, thereby boosting the overall GDP.
Also, without a license, businesses risk penalties, delays, and even seizure of their goods. It ensures that government has adequate knowledge of all export activities going on in the country.
Who Can Apply for an Export License?
To apply for the international trade license in Nigeria, you must be one of the following
- A company registered with the CAC
- A cooperative society
- NGO
Business Names CANNOT apply for the NEPC export license
Document Requirements for Export License Registration in Nigeria
Below are the documents to process the license.
Company
- Certificate of Incorporation issued by the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC)
- Certified Copy of the Memorandum and Articles of Association
- Status Report
- Company stamp
- TIN
- ID of Directors
Co-operative Society
- Certificate of Registration issued by the relevant State Ministry of Commerce, Local Governments, and Federal Capital Territory Area Councils
- Bye-Laws of the Society
Governmental or Non-Governmental Organizations
- Certificate of Registration issued by the Corporate Affairs Commission
- Constitution of the Organization
- Memorandum for Guidance of the Applicant
Export License Registration in Nigeria (Step Guide)
The council only allows for e-registration. There is no physical registration
Below are the steps you need to apply for the export license in Nigeria
Register your company with CAC and secure all your company documents
1. Get a professional company logo and letterhead paper
2. Draft a company letterhead paper stating the decision to apply for the International trade license and the date the decision was made. The resolution letter must be stamped with the official company stamp. Here is export license board resolution sample
3. Head over to the NEPC website and create an account
4. Fill in your company information by providing details of
- the CEO
- Company information
- Factory address
- Type of company
- No of employees
- Annual sales revenue
- Export classification category
- Rated production capacity
- Email address and contact information
5. After you have filled out the form, submit the application
6. Pay the licensing fee
7. Wait for approval and obtain your export license certificate
The issued certificates are valid for an initial period of two years and can be renewed annually thereafter.
Cost of Export License in Nigeria
Below is a full breakdown of securing the export license permit in Nigeria
- CAC company registration (1 million shares ₦60,000 to ₦80,000 depending on the agent)
- NEPC New Certificate Registration: ₦13,500
- Expired Certificate Renewal: ₦7,500
- Late Certificate Renewal (after three months of expiry): ₦12,500
- Lost/Mutilated Certificate Replacement: ₦12,500
Conclusively, if you are applying for the export license permit in Nigeria yourself, you could be spending between ₦15,000 to ₦80,000 (Depending on whether you already have CAC company registration done
How To Pay
Since the NEPC website only allows e-registration, below are the payment mediums available
- Credit/ debit cards
- International credit/debit cards
- Internet banking
- Commercial banks in Nigeria
How Long Does It Take to Get an Export License Certificate?
If everything is done from the beginning to the end, it takes 3 to 5 days to get your Non-oil export license in Nigeria approved, and a certificate issued to you in e-format.
- Login into your account
- Navigate to registration details
- Click to download your certificate
Can I Apply for Export License Without CAC Company Documents?
No. You must have a registered company with CAC, and your company must have a clause in its object like “export of honey or to engage in export of products” before your license can be approved.
NEPC List of Exporters in Nigeria
Here is a link to check the top-performing exporters in Nigeria
Need Help With Export License Registration?
At Legacy Benjamin Consult, we are NEPC and CAC-accredited agents. Let us handle your export license registration, CAC incorporation, TIN processing, and compliance hassle-free.
Contact us today via 08066108299
Conclusion:
Obtaining the export license in Nigeria doesn’t just add more revenue to the regulatory body but also helps companies build credibility, explore international markets and stay compliant with laws and regulations