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Guide · Basics Updated 27 Oct 2026

Why do new online casinos ask for ID?

Casinos verify your identity to confirm you are an adult, that the account is yours and that money is not being laundered through it. Licensed casinos are required to do it, and they do it before paying out.

Send documents early, ideally right after you register. It is the single easiest way to avoid a withdrawal stuck in pending.

By Chloe O'Sullivan | Guides

Why they ask

  • Age: no one under 18 may play.
  • Identity: stops stolen accounts and duplicate accounts made for bonuses.
  • Money laundering rules: the casino's regulator requires checks, especially on large deposits.
  • Safe withdrawals: payouts go only to a verified person and payment method.
  • Responsible gaming: exclusions only work if the casino knows who you are.

Documents South African players usually send

DocumentAccepted formsTip
Photo IDSmart ID card (both sides), green ID book, passport, driving licenceAll four corners visible
Proof of addressUtility bill, bank statement or municipal account under 3 months oldName and address must match the account
Payment proofCard photo with middle digits covered, e-wallet or bank screenshotNever show the CVV
SelfieYou holding your IDGood light, face uncovered
Source of fundsPayslip or bank statementOnly for large deposits

Sending them safely

  • Upload through the casino's own verification page, not by email or chat if an upload page exists.
  • Cover the middle digits of your card number and never share the CVV.
  • If someone asks for documents by direct message on social media, it is not the casino.

How long it takes

Many casinos approve clear documents within hours; manual checks can take a few days. Withdrawals wait until verification is done, so send everything before you need a payout.

Questions

ID checks: questions

Why does the casino want my ID at sign-up?

To confirm your age and identity before you deposit, and to meet its regulator's rules.

Is it safe to send ID to a new casino?

As safe as the casino's systems. Use its upload page, check its licence first, and cover card digits.

What if I do not send ID?

You can usually deposit and play for a while, but you cannot withdraw until you are verified.

Do I have to send ID every time?

No. Once verified, you only need to update expired documents or answer extra checks on large sums.

Can I play free games without ID?

Demo games often play without an account. Real-money play needs a verified account eventually.

Responsible gaming

Play only if you are 18+ and it stays fun

These rules apply on every page of this site. A young casino has less history to judge it by, so the limits matter more.

18+ only

Adults only, everywhere

You must be 18 or older, and older in some countries. A casino can ask for ID before your first withdrawal, and new casinos often do.

Responsible gaming
New brands

Start small with an unknown casino

Deposit an amount you would accept losing to a failed withdrawal, and request a small cash-out early to see how the casino handles it.

How we review new casinos
Limits

Set limits before the welcome offer

Bonus wagering keeps you playing longer. Set a deposit limit and a time limit in the account before you claim.

Set your limits
Help

Free, confidential support

If playing stops being fun, talk to someone. Gambling Therapy offers free support in many languages.

Gambling Therapy · Addiction help