How does Wise verify the country I live in?

If the document used to verify your identity isn't issued by the country you live in, we may need proof that you’re allowed to live there.

When we verify the country you live in, we ask you to provide an additional identification document (ID) issued by the government of that country.

This is different from a proof of address — we can only accept documents issued by a government institution proving your right to live in the country.

If you reside in Europe, we can accept your right to reside within any country in the European Economic Area.

Documents we accept

We can accept the following documents to verify the country you live in:

• Passport

• Driving licence

• National ID card

• Residence permit

• Visa

• Some refugee identity documents.

Unsupported documents

The following are examples of documents we don’t accept:

• Short-term, tourist and transit visas

• Utility bills, rental agreements

• Bank or credit card statements

• Tax bills and statements

• Asylum seeker document

• Applications to extend a visa or permanent residency 

• Application for residence

• Application for refugee status

• Census documents

• Business documents 

What if I don’t have any accepted documents?

We need a document that proves you’re allowed to live in the country you’re opening an account in. Without it, we can’t offer you account details for that country. There may be other limitations to how you can use Wise, depending on the country your account is opened in.

What if I need time to get this document?

That's fine — just come back when you're ready. Once you upload your document, we'll verify it and finish setting up your account details.

What if the country I primarily live in is a different one?

We use the information in your profile for our checks. Make sure your personal details are up to date in your profile settings.

Learn how to edit your personal details