FICA Verification for Online Casinos in South Africa (2025 Guide)
Planning to play at online casinos in South Africa? Before you can withdraw your winnings, you’ll need to complete FICA verification — a legal requirement that protects both players and platforms. In this guide, we explain what FICA is, how to verify your identity, what documents you need, and how long the process takes in 2025.
What Is FICA and Why Does It Matter?
FICA stands for the Financial Intelligence Centre Act — a South African law that requires financial institutions, including online casinos and sportsbooks, to verify the identity of their users. This helps prevent fraud, money laundering, and underage gambling.
All licensed South African platforms are legally required to verify your identity before allowing you to withdraw funds. No FICA = no payout.

What Documents Do You Need for FICA?
To complete FICA at most online casinos, you’ll need to upload:
- ✅ A clear copy of your South African ID, driver’s license, or passport
- ✅ Proof of address, dated within the last 3 months (e.g. utility bill, bank statement)
- ✅ (Optional) A selfie holding your ID for identity confirmation
Some platforms may request proof of banking details — like a bank letter or voided cheque — especially for large withdrawals.
How to Submit Your FICA Documents
Most casinos offer one of the following options:
- Upload directly in your account (“FICA” or “Verification” tab)
- Submit via email to the support team
- Upload through live chat when prompted
Documents are usually reviewed within 1–2 business days, though some platforms (like Betway or YesPlay) may approve them within a few hours.
How Long Does FICA Take?
- Betway South Africa – under 24 hours
- SunBet – 1–2 business days
- Hollywoodbets – varies depending on traffic; often same day
- YesPlay – quick, often under 12 hours
Once verified, your status stays active — you don’t need to repeat FICA unless you change your address or bank.
Tips for Fast Verification
- Make sure all documents are clear and legible (no blurry photos)
- Address proof must show your name and physical address
- Use the same email and phone number during registration and verification
- Don’t delay — start the FICA process right after signing up
Conclusion
FICA verification is a one-time process that unlocks full access to your online casino account, including withdrawals and promotions. It might feel like a hassle, but it’s designed to protect your identity and ensure fair, legal play.
Complete your FICA as early as possible and enjoy smooth, fast cashouts at trusted South African casinos.
FAQ
FICA is a legal process that verifies your identity before you can withdraw funds. It ensures safety and prevents fraud.
You’ll need a valid South African ID or passport, recent proof of address, and sometimes a selfie for confirmation.
Usually within 24–48 hours. Some platforms approve documents in a few hours (e.g., YesPlay, Betway).
You can register and deposit, but you won’t be able to withdraw winnings until your FICA is complete.
No. Once verified, you don’t need to resubmit unless your details change (e.g., address or banking info).