The Bank of Tanzania issued a public notice disputing reports circulating on social media that Tanzanians living abroad are unable to open bank accounts and are forced to collect their bank cards in Tanzania. Checks conducted by the central bank across domestic banks found that existing procedures for diaspora customers are “friendly and fast”, with some banks setting up dedicated service desks and others introducing special diaspora product packages. For account opening, customers are required to provide either a National Identification Authority (NIDA) ID or a passport, which can be submitted at the bank or sent online for processing. Once the account is opened, customers can either collect their card in person if they are in Tanzania or instruct their bank on how the card should be delivered to their location. The notice encourages the diaspora to continue using Tanzanian banks and calls on commercial banks to provide clearer customer education on procedures and required documentation. The Bank of Tanzania also indicated it will continue monitoring and follow up to ensure any bank-specific customer issues are resolved promptly.
Bank of Tanzania 2025-03-14
Bank of Tanzania rebuts social media claims on diaspora bank account opening and card collection
The Bank of Tanzania refuted claims that Tanzanians abroad face difficulties opening bank accounts, affirming procedures are efficient. The central bank highlighted that diaspora customers can use a National Identification Authority ID or passport for account opening, with options for card collection or delivery. It urged banks to enhance customer education on procedures and pledged ongoing oversight to address any issues.