Nowadays, online casinos are available from anywhere. You LOVE them for this too, right? However, you will not be able to register in all casinos. Depending on your age, your area, and other things. So, KYC ensures compliance and increases online security. In this article, you will discover what it is and how to do it.

What is KYC?  

Casinos have started implementing KYC (or Know Your Client) to comply with regulations. In simple terms, it involves verifying the player's identity.

On a broader level, KYC prevents fraud, money laundering, and similar issues. But more commonly, it helps ensure that minors and individuals from restricted areas cannot access the casino.

Overall, KYC benefits both the casino and the player. While it has drawbacks (which we will discuss later), it is a sign that the casino follows safety regulations.

What documentation is required?

• The basic documentation needed is an official identity document.
• Sometimes, proof of address may also be required, such as a utility bill.
• You may also need to provide banking information.

Identity Verification

The process varies by casino. Usually, you'll need to upload high-quality scanned copies of your documents (so that the text and photo are visible).

After this, some casinos may ask you to take a selfie next to your ID or with your computer screen open to the verification section or chat with the support team. In some cases, you can verify your identity through live chat. Recently, technologies like biometrics have also started to be used.

In a licensed casino, the procedure usually takes 24-48 hours. With Lad Brokes, for example, I got my KYC completed in just 14 hours (but it might vary across regions).

When is it requested?

Your identity may be verified when you first register or when you make your first withdrawal. It's rare for casinos to require verification twice (once during registration and again at withdrawal). While this practice can be found in some casinos — especially if you are withdrawing large amounts—it is not typically welcomed by the gambling community.

If you want to know when you will need to go through the KYC process, you can ask in advance, even before registering. If you can’t find the information in the FAQs, ask through the chat icon.

However, note that if you only play in demo mode, for example, trying free pompeii slot, KYC is not requested.

Pros & Cons

While it may not seem like there is any advantage to you as a player, it actually benefits you tremendously to know that the casino follows these standards. Here are the main advantages of KYC (and disadvantages too).

Are there any alternatives to traditional KYC?

Alternatives to KYC can be divided into two parts. First, some options streamline the process using emerging technologies. For example, live chat or facial recognition with biometrics. Both can reduce the time required for verification to just a few minutes (compared to the days it used to take for support teams to check submitted documents).

On the other hand, with the rise of blockchain and cryptocurrencies, more casinos are adopting a simplified KYC process. Since cryptocurrency withdrawals allow for anonymity, these casinos have less of a need to verify personal information.

There are also casinos that don’t require identity verification at all. While this may seem more convenient, it directly impacts the level of risk involved.

Final thoughts

When choosing the casino where you'll play, consider your personal preferences. Even if you lean toward a site without KYC, you know the pros and cons, at least now.

Ideally, you want to ensure that the casino has KYC but that the process only needs to be done once, such as during registration. This way, you avoid any surprises later on.

Finally, you might want to read reviews about this topic on casino review sites, focusing on the casino you chose. Play responsibly, and good luck!