Top 5 unique identity documents essential for global financial services in 2025
Identity verification is critical for meeting global AML and KYC regulations, but it’s not one-size-fits-all. Did you know some countries issue unique ID documents tailored to their culture and laws? For financial institutions, understanding these can boost inclusivity and accuracy. Discover five fascinating ID documents shaping verification worldwide!
Aizaz Ahmad
Identity verification is a cornerstone for compliance with Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) regulations globally. In addition to standard forms of identification like passports and driver’s licenses, some countries issue unique identity documents tailored to their specific cultural and legal needs. For financial institutions serving an international clientele, being aware of these documents can enhance inclusivity and accuracy in verification processes. Here, we explore five unique identity documents that play an essential role in verification worldwide.
1. Aadhaar Card (India)
India’s Aadhaar card is a biometric-based unique identity document, managed by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). It includes a 12-digit unique identification number, linked to an individual’s biometric and demographic data, which makes it one of the most advanced digital ID systems globally.
Use case
Identity verification in India’s digital economy
Financial institutions in India rely heavily on Aadhaar for seamless KYC (Know Your Customer) processes. This allows for rapid digital verification and easy onboarding of clients, significantly reducing the time and effort traditionally required. Aadhaar’s widespread acceptance, coupled with government endorsement, has made it an indispensable tool for verifying identities across the country. Its integration is particularly beneficial in rural and underserved areas, where traditional verification methods can be slow and cumbersome. By leveraging Aadhaar, institutions can ensure inclusivity and expand access to essential services.
Key use
Biometric and demographic-based identity verification serves as the backbone for accessing a range of government services, opening bank accounts, and facilitating digital financial services. This system ensures secure, efficient, and reliable identity validation, helping bridge the gap between urban and rural populations while promoting a more connected digital economy.
2. Nigerian National Identity Number (NIN)
The Nigerian National Identity Number (NIN) is issued by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) and serves as a unique identifier for Nigerian citizens and residents. It includes biometric data, making it a reliable document for identity verification in both physical and digital environments.
Use case
Verification in Nigeria’s emerging fintech sector. Financial services in Nigeria increasingly rely on the NIN for secure identity verification, especially for digital transactions. This is critical for financial institutions aiming to reduce fraud while expanding digital services in Nigeria’s growing fintech landscape.
Key use
Proof of identity for secure access to financial services, government programs, and digital platforms in Nigeria.
3. Carte Nationale d’Identité (France)
The French Carte Nationale d’Identité is a biometric national ID card issued to French citizens, containing personal details and security features to prevent forgery. While it is not mandatory, it is widely used and recognized as a reliable form of ID across the European Union (EU).
Use case
Cross-border identity verification in the EU
For financial institutions operating across the EU, the Carte Nationale d’Identité offers a standardized, EU-recognized form of ID verification for French citizens. Its biometric features help streamline KYC processes, enhancing security and trust for cross-border transactions.
Key use
Secure identity verification for French citizens in domestic and EU-wide financial transactions.
4. Australian Proof of Age Card
Australia’s Proof of Age Card is issued by each state and territory and is often used as an alternative to a driver’s license for individuals over 18 who do not drive. It includes the cardholder's photo and age, making it useful for age verification in sectors like banking and financial services.
Use case
Age and identity verification for non-drivers in Australia
For financial services targeting younger customers or individuals who do not possess a driver’s license, the Proof of Age Card serves as an essential identification document. This card is particularly valuable for banks and financial institutions looking to extend their services to younger demographics or those who rely on alternative forms of ID. It ensures inclusivity by providing a reliable way of verifying identity and age for individuals without a driving license.
Key use
The Proof of Age Card is primarily used for age and identity verification for adults who do not hold a driver’s license. It allows access to age-restricted financial services, such as opening accounts, applying for loans, or verifying eligibility for specific products. This document plays a crucial role in expanding financial accessibility to a wider audience in Australia.
5. Hong Kong Identity Card (HKID)
The Hong Kong Identity Card (HKID) is a mandatory ID for residents of Hong Kong. It includes biometric data, such as a photograph and fingerprints, and is required for accessing various government and financial services within the region.
Use case
Financial identity verification in Hong Kong
In Hong Kong, financial institutions rely on the Hong Kong Identity Card (HKID) for accurate and efficient identity verification. The HKID plays a critical role in enabling seamless access to financial services such as opening bank accounts, applying for personal and business loans, and conducting secure financial transactions. Its biometric security features, including embedded digital data and facial recognition, enhance trust and streamline compliance with Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations. This ensures both institutions and customers can interact with greater confidence and security.
Key use
Comprehensive identity verification for Hong Kong residents in accessing a wide range of financial services, government programs, and other critical services requiring verified identity. By integrating advanced biometric features, the HKID helps reduce fraud and enhances the overall efficiency of identity management processes.
How Veriff can help
Veriff empowers businesses worldwide with cutting-edge identity verification solutions, enabling seamless customer onboarding and robust fraud prevention. Supporting documents from over 230 countries and territories, Veriff facilitates global expansion by enabling organizations to launch in new regions effortlessly. With compatibility for 48 languages and dialects, and support for Latin, Cyrillic, and Arabic scripts, Veriff ensures maximum inclusivity and reach.
Here’s a list of global documents supported by Veriff:
Aadhaar Card (India) - Veriff’s platform verifies Aadhaar for digital identity checks, supporting rapid onboarding for the Indian market.
Carte Nationale d’Identité (France)- Veriff enables secure cross-border verification of French citizens’ IDs within the EU.
Australian Proof of Age Card - This card is easily integrated into Veriff’s verification system, supporting Australian institutions in verifying non-drivers.
Hong Kong Identity Card (HKID) - Veriff ensures efficient verification of HKID cards for financial institutions in Hong Kong, adhering to regional compliance standards.
Veriff’s robust verification engine analyzes thousands of data points to provide a secure and seamless experience, helping financial institutions worldwide enhance their compliance and serve a broader customer base.
