eSIM Card logo
Dylan Ray's blog

Dylan Ray

16 Jan 2024

What Is an eKYC and Why Do Some eSIMs Require It?

eSIMs offer ease and flexibility for mobile users, especially those who travel. But have you ever come across the term eKYC when dealing with eSIMs and wondered what it means? 

4.9

4.9 rating

Highly Rated

Based on 500,000+ customer reviews

rated people

Trusted worldwide

Over 1 million travelers across the globe have trusted us

travel friendly

Travel Friendly

No swaps, global connectivity ensured

With eSIM Card, you can save 100% on roaming fees

What is eKYC?

eKYC, which stands for "Electronically Know Your Customer," is a digital process used to verify the identity of their customers. This process is essential in some countries due to regulatory and security measures. It ensures that the person using the eSIM is who they claim to be. Let's break it down in simple terms.

How to Perform an eKYC Check for eSIM Card

Understanding the eKYC (Electronically Know Your Customer) process is essential for eSIM Card users accessing eSIMs in specific countries. Here's a guide to help you through the eKYC verification process:

eKYC Notification: When on the eSIM Card platform and selecting an eSIM, look for a notification or message indicating, "This eSIM requires you to complete your identity verification." This message means you need to go through the

eKYC process

By following these steps on eSIM Card, you can efficiently complete the eKYC process, ensuring that your eSIM is ready to use and keeping you connected during your travels.

Document Upload for Verification

The key step in eKYC is to upload a clear photo of your passport. This photo is used to verify your identity. Ensure that all the details in the passport are visible and the image is of high quality.

Timing for Verification

Aim to complete this eKYC process a few days before your planned travel. The verification might take time, and completing it early helps avoid any last-minute issues.

Check eSIM Requirements

Before you finalize your eSIM purchase on eSIM Card, it's wise to check if your destination country requires an eKYC check. This information is usually available in the eSIM details or under the 'Additional Information' section.

Passport and Visa Considerations

Different countries have various rules about how long you can stay and what kind of visa you might need. Similarly, eSIMs have specific usage periods. Completing your eKYC check in advance ensures that you comply with these regulations and can use your eSIM as soon as you arrive.

Prepare for Potential Delays 

Although the eKYC process is typically quick, there can be unexpected delays, particularly if the passport photo you submit isn't clear enough. Allowing extra time for the verification process can help mitigate these issues.

Be Aware of Local Network Rules 

Different countries may have unique network or communication restrictions. It's important to be aware of these, especially in countries that require an eKYC check for eSIM usage. This knowledge will help you avoid any connectivity issues upon arrival.

Passport and Visa Restrictions

When traveling internationally, it's important to understand how passport and visa restrictions can affect your use of eSIMs. Like countries with different rules for how long you can stay and what type of visa you might need, eSIMs also come with their considerations.

Duration of Stay and eSIM Validity

Countries have varying rules on how long you can stay, ranging from a few days to several weeks or months. Similarly, eSIMs are designed to provide data usage for a certain period, which could be a few days or extend up to a few weeks. It's crucial to align your eSIM's validity with the duration of your stay.

Visa Requirements and eSIM Activation

Depending on your passport, some countries might require you to apply for a visa before your trip or upon arrival, while others may grant you entry for a specified period without a visa. Before traveling, ensure that your eSIM is compatible with the country's network and that you've completed any necessary steps, like eKYC verification, to activate it.

Completing eKYC in Advance

For countries that require eKYC verification for eSIM activation, completing this process a few days to a week before your travel is recommended. 

The Importance of eKYC for eSIMs

In the world of eSIMs, eKYC (Electronically Know Your Customer) plays a crucial role, especially when it comes to international travel and connectivity. Here's why eKYC is important for eSIM users:

Regulatory Compliance

Many countries have established eKYC protocols as part of their regulatory and security measures. eKYC helps verify eSIM users' identity in compliance with these regulations. This is particularly important for eSIMs because they can be purchased and used across different countries, each with its own rules.

Digital Verification

eKYC allows for the digital authentication of customers. This process is done remotely, saving you the hassle of physical queues. It's a paperless and quick process, taking only a few minutes to complete. This convenience is especially beneficial for travelers who often have tight schedules and need to ensure their mobile connectivity is sorted before they embark on their journey.

Security Measures

eKYC adds an extra layer of security. Verifying the identity of the eSIM user helps prevent fraudulent activities and ensures that the eSIM is being used by the rightful owner. 

Smoother Travel Experience:

For travelers, completing an eKYC check means less downtime in getting their eSIM ready upon arrival in a new country. This smoothens the travel experience, as they can connect to a mobile network within minutes of landing.

Preparation and Planning

The eKYC process typically requires you to upload a photo of your passport for identity verification. Completing this process a few days before your departure ensures that your eSIM is ready to use when needed. This foresight can be particularly helpful in avoiding any last-minute issues that might arise due to verification delays.

Awareness of Local Restrictions

The requirement of an eKYC for an eSIM can also indicate other network or communication restrictions in the destination country. Awareness of these requirements helps travelers prepare accordingly and stay informed about the local regulations.

Conclusion

As we wrap up our discussion on "What Is an eKYC and Why Do Some eSIMs Require It?", it's clear that eKYC (Electronically Know Your Customer) plays a pivotal role in the world of eSIM technology, particularly for international travelers.   

The process of completing an eKYC check is straightforward and user-friendly. Typically, it involves uploading a photo of your passport through the eSIM provider's application. This digital approach not only speeds up the verification process but also makes it more convenient

Another crucial aspect to consider is the awareness of local restrictions in the country you're visiting. Countries that require eKYC for eSIM access may also have other specific communication regulations. Being informed about these can help you avoid any unexpected connectivity issues upon arrival.

eSIM plans that may interest you

Recent Blogs

WhatsApp Chat