Know Your Customer (KYC) verification is a crucial step for users looking to access full features on cryptocurrency exchanges like KuCoin. This process ensures platform security, regulatory compliance, and enhanced user trust. Whether you're a new registrant or an existing user, completing KYC unlocks higher withdrawal limits, advanced trading tools, and improved service stability.
Starting July 15, 2023 (UTC), KuCoin updated its identity verification requirements. All newly registered users must complete KYC to use any products or services. For those who signed up before this date, failure to verify restricts access to key functions such as deposits, margin trading, futures trading, and earning product redemptions—though withdrawals remain unaffected.
👉 Discover how easy it is to verify your identity and unlock full trading privileges today.
Individual KYC Verification Process
To begin the verification process, log in to your KuCoin account and click on "Identity Verification" under your profile avatar. The system supports both web and mobile platforms, ensuring a smooth experience across devices.
KuCoin’s individual KYC consists of three progressive levels:
- Level 1: Provide Personal Information
- Level 2: Upload ID Document
- Level 3: Complete Facial Verification
Each level increases your daily withdrawal limit and grants access to more platform features. Advancing through all stages ensures maximum functionality.
Step 1: Provide Personal Information (Level 1)
On the Individual Verification screen, click "Verify", then select your country or region and the type of identification document you’ll be using (e.g., passport, driver’s license). Fill in your personal details exactly as they appear on your ID.
Important Notes:
- Ensure your selected country matches the issuing country of your ID.
- All information must match your official documents precisely—any discrepancies may lead to rejection.
Completing Level 1 allows basic trading activity with limited withdrawal capabilities.
Step 2: Upload ID Document (Level 2)
After submitting personal information, proceed to upload a clear photo of your government-issued ID. You can either capture it live via webcam or upload a pre-taken image.
When taking or uploading photos, follow these guidelines:
- Capture the entire document without cropping.
- Ensure text is clear and legible, not blurry or pixelated.
- Avoid glare, shadows, or reflections from lighting.
- Do not cover any part of the ID; it must be undamaged and unaltered.
Supported documents typically include:
- Passport
- National ID card
- Driver’s license
Once uploaded, the system will prompt you for a selfie to confirm identity authenticity.
Step 3: Complete Facial Verification (Level 3)
This final step involves real-time facial recognition. Allow camera access and follow on-screen instructions to take a live selfie. The system compares your face with the photo on your ID to verify consistency.
Tips for success:
- Remove hats, sunglasses, or masks.
- Ensure good lighting—avoid backlighting or dark environments.
- Keep your face centered and clearly visible.
Upon completion, your documents enter review. Processing times vary but are generally completed within 24–48 hours. You’ll receive an email notification once verified.
Institutional KYC Verification
For businesses or organizations seeking to open accounts on KuCoin, Institutional Verification is required. Navigate to "Identity Verification" > "Institutional Verification" > "Start Verification".
You’ll need to provide:
- Official business registration documents
- Proof of company address
- Government-issued ID of authorized representatives
- Corporate ownership structure
This process may take longer due to additional compliance checks but enables entities to manage assets securely and at scale.
👉 Learn how institutions streamline compliance while maximizing trading potential.
Why KYC Matters
KYC isn’t just a formality—it's a global standard designed to prevent fraud, money laundering, and terrorist financing. By verifying user identities, exchanges comply with Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations and protect both users and platforms.
Benefits of completing KYC include:
- Higher deposit and withdrawal limits
- Access to margin and futures trading
- Eligibility for staking, lending, and earn programs
- Faster customer support response times
- Enhanced account security
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KYC verification, KuCoin KYC, identity verification, crypto exchange KYC, complete KYC, facial verification, ID upload, and individual KYC.
These terms reflect common search intents related to user onboarding, compliance, and platform accessibility in the crypto space.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is KYC verification?
KYC stands for "Know Your Customer." It’s a mandatory process used by financial platforms—including cryptocurrency exchanges—to verify users’ identities. This helps prevent fraud, ensure regulatory compliance, and maintain secure trading environments.
Why did my KYC verification fail?
Common reasons for failure include:
- Blurry, cropped, or poorly lit ID photos
- Expired identification documents
- Mismatched personal information (e.g., name spelling differs from ID)
- Glare or reflection on the document
- Wearing accessories during facial verification (hats, glasses)
Double-check all submissions before resubmitting.
How long does KYC verification take on KuCoin?
Most individual verifications are processed within 24 to 48 hours. However, delays may occur during peak periods or if additional documentation is requested. Institutional verifications typically take longer due to complexity.
Can I trade without completing KYC?
Yes—but with significant limitations. Unverified users can only perform spot sell orders, redeem certain earn products, and withdraw funds. Deposits and advanced trading features require full KYC completion.
Is my personal data safe during KYC?
KuCoin employs advanced encryption and strict privacy policies to protect user data. Uploaded documents are stored securely and used solely for identity verification purposes.
Does KuCoin support US users?
No. Due to regulatory restrictions, KuCoin does not offer services to residents of the United States. Attempting to use the platform from a US IP address may result in account restrictions.
👉 See how top-tier platforms combine security with seamless verification experiences.
Final Thoughts
Completing KYC on KuCoin is a straightforward process that significantly enhances your trading capabilities and account security. By following the outlined steps—providing accurate personal details, uploading clear ID photos, and completing facial verification—you can quickly unlock full access to one of the world’s leading crypto exchanges.
Remember: accuracy and clarity are key. Take time to prepare high-quality images and double-check all entries before submission. With KYC done, you’re ready to explore margin trading, futures contracts, staking rewards, and more—all within a compliant and secure environment.