What Are FICA Documents? A Simple Guide for Casino & Sportsbook Players

If you’re trying to verify your account at an online casino or sportsbook and keep getting asked for “FICA documents,” don’t stress, it’s simpler than it sounds. This straightforward guide explains exactly what FICA is, what documents you need, and how to get your account verified quickly. Once done, you can deposit, withdraw, and enjoy your favourite games without interruptions.
What Is FICA?
FICA stands for Financial Intelligence Centre Act, a South African law designed to prevent money laundering, fraud, and other financial crimes.
To comply with FICA, online gambling platforms, just like banks and other financial services, must verify the identity and address of their customers. This verification, commonly referred to as FICA verification, is mandatory before you can withdraw winnings or, in some cases, even deposit funds.
What FICA Documents Do I Need?
You’ll typically be asked to submit two main types of documents:
Proof of Identity
Submit a clear copy of any one of the following documents:
- South African green barcoded ID book
- South African Smart ID card
- Valid passport
- Valid South African driver’s licence
Make sure your document clearly shows:
- Your full name
- A photo
- Your ID or passport number
The copy or photo must be clear, fully visible, and legible.
Proof of Address
You also need a recent document (no older than 3 months) that clearly displays your full name and residential address. Acceptable documents include:
- Utility bill (e.g., electricity or water)
- Recent bank statement
- Lease or rental agreement
- Clothing or retail account statement
- Official municipality letter
Digital copies (photos or PDF) are fine as long as they’re clear and readable.
Why Do Casinos and Sportsbooks Require FICA Documents?
Providing FICA documents isn’t just a legal formality; it also helps protect you. FICA verification:
- Keeps your account secure from identity theft
- Ensures withdrawals go to the correct person
- Helps platforms comply with South African law
- Creates a safer environment for everyone who plays
Once your documents are approved, you typically won’t need to resubmit them unless your personal details change.
How to Submit Your FICA Documents
Most online betting sites or casinos follow a similar submission process:
- Log in to your casino or sportsbook account
- Visit the account/profile verification section
- Upload your identity and address documents
- Wait for approval, usually within 24 to 48 hours
Once approved, your account will be fully verified, and you can deposit or withdraw without hassle.
Common FICA Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your documents get approved the first time around, watch out for these common mistakes:
- Blurry or unclear images – make sure the entire document is clear and easy to read
- Expired or outdated documents – your proof of address must be dated within the last 3 months
- Documents not matching account details – all submitted documents must clearly match your registered account information
Avoiding these mistakes can significantly speed up the verification process.
Need Assistance?
If you’re unsure about which documents are acceptable, or if you run into any problems during submission, contact the casino or sportsbook’s customer support team directly. They’re experienced at guiding players through FICA verification and can quickly resolve most issues.





