Why KYC Trips Up Everyone
Because regulators love paperwork more than a kid loves candy. Look: if you skip the right docs, your account freezes faster than ice in a desert.
Identity Proof – The Non-Negotiable
Passport, driver’s license, national ID. Pick one, but make sure it’s a clear scan, not a blurry selfie. The issuer’s seal must be visible; otherwise, you’re dead-ending the process.
Address Verification – Proof That You Exist Somewhere
Utility bill, bank statement, or a rental agreement dated within the last three months. No, a “Google Maps screenshot” doesn’t count. The document must show your full name and a real address, not a PO box.
Financial Source – The Money Trail
Bank statements, payslips, tax returns. Show the origin of funds, not just a vague “I earn enough.” Regulators sniff out any hint of money-laundering, so be crystal-clear.
Additional Docs for High-Risk Users
Corporate entities need articles of incorporation, shareholder registers, and a board resolution. Crypto-heavy accounts demand a proof-of-ownership for wallets. Miss a single piece and you’ll be back at square one.
Formatting Rules That Matter
All files must be PDF or high-resolution JPEG. No PDFs larger than 5 MB. Color scans preferred; black-and-white sometimes triggers a manual review.
Verification Process – What Happens After Upload
Automated AI checks the document, then a human double-checks. If any field is mismatched, you get a “re-submit” request. The turnaround is usually 24-48 hours, unless you’re a weekend upload.
Common Pitfalls and How to Dodge Them
Expired IDs – dead. Mismatched names – dead. Blurred images – dead. The simplest fix? Use a scanner, not a phone camera, and double-check the expiration date before you hit upload.
Quick Checklist Before You Submit
Is the document current? Is the name identical across all papers? Is the address visible and legible? Is the file format correct? If the answer is yes, you’re good.
Where to Find the Full List
If you need a one-stop reference, the KYC document requirements guide breaks it down page by page.
Actionable Advice
Grab your ID, snap a high-res photo, verify the expiration, and upload now. No more waiting.