FICA Verification Guide for South African Betting Sites
Every licensed SA bookmaker must verify your identity under FICA before paying out winnings. Here's exactly what you need, how to upload it, and how to avoid the common rejections.
By the PlayZA Team · Last updated 29 May 2026
The Basics
What is FICA and Why is it Required?
FICA stands for the Financial Intelligence Centre Act. It is South African law designed to combat money laundering and fraud by requiring financial businesses — including licensed betting operators — to verify who their customers really are.
In practice, this means that before a bookmaker can pay out your winnings, you must confirm your identity and residential address by submitting documents. It's a one-time process per account, and once you're verified you won't need to do it again.
Requirements
Documents Required by Bookmaker
| Bookmaker | Documents | Typical Time |
|---|---|---|
| Hollywoodbets | SA ID / passport + proof of address | Up to 24–72h (manual) |
| Betway | SA ID + proof of address (sometimes selfie) | A few hours – 24h |
| World Sports Betting | SA ID + proof of address | Up to 24h |
| Supabets | SA ID + proof of address | Up to 48h |
Acceptable proof of address includes a municipal utility bill, bank statement, retail account statement or lease agreement — dated within the last three months and showing your name and address.
Step by Step
How to Complete FICA at Hollywoodbets
Step 1: Log in to your account
Sign in to Hollywoodbets and open the FICA or document upload section in your profile.Step 2: Select the document type
Choose the document you're uploading — ID document, passport or proof of address.Step 3: Upload a clear copy
Take a sharp, well-lit photo or scan showing all four corners and every detail clearly. Avoid glare and cropping.Step 4: Submit and wait
Submit the documents. Hollywoodbets reviews them manually, so verification can take up to 24–72 hours. You'll be notified once approved.
Tips
How to Upload Documents the Right Way
Good lighting
Photograph documents on a flat surface in bright, even light with no shadows or glare.
Show everything
Capture all four corners. Don't crop, fold or cover any part of the document.
Official channels only
Only ever upload through the bookmaker's own site or app — never via links in emails or SMS.
Troubleshooting
Common Rejection Reasons & Fixes
Blurry or cropped image
Fix: Re-take the photo in good light, holding the camera steady, with all four corners of the document visible.
Details don't match your account
Fix: Make sure the name and ID number on your documents exactly match what you entered at registration.
Proof of address too old
Fix: Use a utility bill or bank statement dated within the last three months.
Wrong document type
Fix: Proof of address must show your name and physical address — a till slip or payslip without an address won't be accepted.
FAQ
