How to Complete KYC on a Crypto Exchange – What You Need and How Long It Takes
KYC (Know Your Customer) is an identity verification procedure required on all centralized exchanges. Without verification, you can't trade or withdraw funds. Let's break down how to complete KYC quickly and without issues.
What Documents Do You Need
- Passport – accepted on all exchanges
- International passport – accepted everywhere, sometimes preferred
- Driver's license – accepted on Binance, Bybit, OKX
- ID card – if available (for citizens of EU countries, etc.)
- Selfie – a photo of your face on camera (taken during the process)
Quick KYC tip
Use your passport – the system recognizes it faster. Take photos on a flat surface with good lighting, without glare.
How Verification Works
Select your country and document type
Indicate your citizenship and choose the document. Passport is the most reliable option.
Upload a photo of your document
Take a photo with your phone or upload an existing image. The key is that all data must be readable, without glare, and corners must not be cut off.
Take a selfie
The system will ask you to photograph your face or record a short video. Remove glasses and headwear – lighting should be even.
Wait for approval
Automatic verification takes 5-30 minutes. Manual review (if the system didn't recognize the document) – from a few hours up to 3 days.
Verification Times by Exchange
| Exchange | Rating | Spot | Coins | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 Binance | 9.5 | 0.1% | 450+ | Start |
 Bybit | 9.3 | 0.1% | 660+ | Start |
 OKX | 9.1 | 0.1% | 350+ | Start |
 Bitget | 9.0 | 0.1% | 800+ | Start |
 MEXC | 8.8 | 0.05% | 2500+ | Start |
On all listed exchanges, KYC usually takes from 5 minutes to a few hours. MEXC is the fastest (often under 5 minutes).
Regional restrictions
Some exchanges have restrictions for certain countries. Check the exchange's terms of service for your jurisdiction before registering.
If KYC Doesn't Go Through
- Check photo quality – everything must be clear, without glare
- Try a different document (international passport instead of national ID)
- Use your phone camera instead of a webcam – better quality
- Check the document's expiration date – expired documents won't be accepted
- Contact exchange support – they usually respond within 1-2 hours