Every customer needs to be verified at some stage when using Wise. This is how we make sure we're safe and secure for all our customers, and stay compliant with anti-money laundering rules.
Sometimes, this means we'll ask you to compare a live photo of your face with a picture of your official ID.
This is different from taking a photo while holding your ID next to your face. For this check, you’ll take a photo of your ID, and then a separate live photo of your face. You can't upload photos you've already taken.
Which ID can I use?
Before you start, make sure you have a valid, unexpired ID that we accept for this type of verification.
In most countries, we can accept: Passport, National ID card
In the European Economic Area (EEA), we can't accept driver's licenses for this verification. You must use a Passport or National ID card
To see the full list of documents we accept for identity verification by country, please check our guide to getting verified. Using a document that isn't supported for this process will cause the verification to fail.
How do I complete the verification?
You can usually complete this process using your smartphone (via the Wise app or a secure link) or your computer's webcam. Using your phone is highly recommended as the camera is usually better.
Starting on the Web:
When prompted to verify your identity, we'll suggest using your phone. You'll see options like:
Scan QR Code: Use your phone's camera to scan the code shown on your computer screen.
Get link by email: We'll email you a secure link to open on your phone.
Follow the link or QR code on your phone to continue the process in the Wise app or your phone's browser.
If you can't use a phone, select I don't have a phone or Use webcam to use your computer's camera.
Completing on your phone or computer:
Choose your ID: Select the country that issued your ID and the document type.
Take a photo of your ID:
Position your ID clearly within the frame on screen.
Make sure the photo is clear, without glare or blurriness. See tips below.
You might need to photograph both the front and back.
Review the photo. If it's unclear, select Retake photo. If it looks good, confirm it.
Take a live photo (selfie):
Position your face within the oval frame. Don’t hold your ID card in this step.
Follow the on-screen instructions (like moving closer or holding still).
The photo will be taken automatically.
Submit: Once both photos are captured, submit them for verification.
Tips for taking good photos
Find good lighting: Use a well-lit room, but avoid direct light that causes glare on your ID or shadows on your face.
Keep it steady: Place your ID on a flat surface to take its picture. When taking your live photo, hold your phone or sit still. Blurry photos will be rejected.
Fill the frame: Make sure your entire ID is inside the frame – don't cover any part with your fingers. For your live photo, ensure your whole face is visible inside the oval.
Check the text: All text on your ID must be sharp and readable. Double-check your name, date of birth, and the expiry date.
What if my verification fails or I have problems?
Bad photo quality: If your photos are rejected, you'll usually be prompted to try again. Use the tips above for the best results.
Technical issues (app freeze, webcam error, QR code not working):
Restart the Wise app or your browser.
If you're using a webcam, check that you've given your browser permission to use it and try a different browser if it still fails.
Look for a recovery link on any paused transfer or in an email from us.
Red banner on Home screen: If your verification failed, you might see a red banner on your Wise account Home screen. Clicking this may let you retry.
No recovery link or banner: As a last resort, try setting up a new, small transfer. You don't need to pay for it, but this can trigger the verification flow again.
"We have all we need" message: If you see this, it means your photos are already with our team for a manual review. You can't upload more until they make a decision. Please wait for our email.
Still stuck? If you've tried these steps and can't complete the verification, please contact our support team.
I still need extra help
We understand taking photos can be difficult. If you continue to struggle after multiple attempts:
Ask someone you trust to help you.
If that's not possible, contact our support team and explain your situation.
I don't want to use biometric data
When asked, you can choose manual verification (like "No thanks, do it manually"). We collect the same photos, but a human agent will review them instead of an automated system. This will take longer.