What is the KYC Verification
On Bitfinex, verification refers to the more commonly known KYC, an acronym for “know your customer” or “know your client”.
The verification process is used to validate a customer’s identity. It includes information such as a valid government-issued identification card, utility bills with name and residential address, bank statement, etc.
— Do I need to verify my account to start trading?
If you are using an individual account, you can upgrade your verification level to Basic Plus to access most of the available Bitfinex features such as deposits and withdrawals of listed cryptocurrencies including Tether tokens, make Exchange Trading and have access to the Bitfinex OTC market.
For corporate accounts, at least Intermediate level is required to access Bitfinex features, including deposits, withdrawals, trading, etc.
Further verification is required if you wish to deposit/withdraw fiat currencies (e.g. USD), for Margin Trading* and Margin Funding*, for selected utility and stablecoins and/or to access advanced trading options.
*Important:
- Margin Trading, Margin Funding and Bitfinex Borrow require at least Intermediate level verification for all Bitfinex accounts created after March 1, 2022.
Note: As per our Terms of Service, we reserve the right to ask for KYC information at any point in time if your account activity raises flags.
— Which types of accounts are available?
Bitfinex offers two types of verification options:
- Individual account - for professionals and individual traders
- Corporate account - for institutional investors and corporations
— What levels of access to Bitfinex are available?
For individual accounts:
- Basic Access;
- Basic Plus;
- Intermediate;
- Full.
For corporate accounts:
- Basic Access;
- Intermediate;
- Full.
Each level of access offers different advantages. For a complete overview, please check our dedicated article.
— How long does each verification level take?
Basic Access is available immediately when creating an account and linking your email address.
Basic Plus offers an instant verification, only taking 10-30 seconds to complete.
Intermediate and Full account verification levels take 2-3 working days.
Note: Verification requests can take longer if they are incomplete or if they are submitted during periods of significant public interest in cryptocurrencies. You will be notified by email when your account is verified.
— What if my ID does not have an expiration date?
If your ID does not have an expiration date, please select the last date available on our verification page.
— What if I don't have an Area Code for my phone number?
You can leave this field empty.
— Which documents do you accept as Proof of Residence?
- Utility bill (water, gas, mobile, internet, etc.);
- Letter from a government department;
- Tax statement;
- Insurance statement;
- Credit card statement;
- A certified statement from a Notary;
Note: The Proof of Residence provided must be no older than 90 days.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Bitfinex Support.