Wave landed in Côte d'Ivoire in 2020 with a simple model: 1% on money transfers, 0% on deposits and withdrawals. Its network of small 'Wave points' is now among the densest in the country. This guide shows how to open an account in minutes, fund it and use it without a bank.
What you need
- An Ivorian phone number (Orange, MTN or Moov).
- An ID document (national ID, passport or resident card) to raise limits.
- The Wave app (iOS or Android), or sign up at an authorised point.
Create the account in 4 steps
- Download the Wave app or visit a Wave point.
- Enter your phone number and validate the SMS code.
- Add your name and ID if you want a higher limit.
- Make a first deposit at a Wave point to activate the account.
Deposit and withdraw
To deposit, go to a Wave point (penguin sign), give your number and the amount: the credit is instant and free. To withdraw, same process; withdrawal is free, unlike most rival wallets.
Key fees
- Transfer: 1% (capped at 5,000 FCFA per transaction).
- Deposit: 0%.
- Withdrawal: 0%.
- Receiving money: 0%.