FICA… everyone’s favourite four-letter word. But what is it exactly and is it as complicated as everyone thinks it is? We answer all of your questions about FICA - what it is, what it means for you and how you can easily submit your documents.
We are committed to making the process easy, simple, and quick for you.
In plain English:
The government wants to stop bad people from using legitimate businesses like ours to help launder illegally gotten funds and therefore wants us to know that you are who you say you are and that everything is verifiable. That way, you know we’re the real deal, and we know you’re a law-abiding citizen and everything is above-board.
In legalese:
FICA stands for Financial Intelligence Centre Act, legislation implemented by the South African government in an effort to fight crimes related to money laundering and online or land-based related financial crimes. FICA is regulated and implemented by the Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board (WCGRB).
To meet the requirements of FICA legislation, SunBet is required by law, to collect identification verification documents (Copy of ID, Proof of Residence) once you've reached a withdrawal limit in order to protect you and prevent any fraudulent activities.
To fully verify your identity, we need valid copies of the following documents:
1) Proof of identification will be required in the form of a copy of either
2) Proof of residential address, not older than 3 months, in any of the following formats
Simply log in to your account then click on (i) ‘My Account’ in the top navigation menu (desktop) or under the (ii) "burger menu" (mobile)
Click on ‘My Profile’
Click on ‘FICA Documentation’
Click on ‘Upload ID / Passport’ - Max size 4MB and Format type: PDF, png, PNG
ID document examples
On mobile, click on the "File" folder
Navigate to the folder where you saved the file i.e. Gallery/My Files/Drive then select the image or file to upload
On desktop, navigate to the folder where you saved the file i.e. desktop/documents/downloads then click "Open" button or double on the image or file to upload
Click on ‘Upload proof of address’ - A utility bill or account /A lease or rental agreement/ A bank statement reflecting your home address and NOT older than 3 months. - Max size 4MB and Format type: PDF, png, PNG)
Proof of address examples
Repeat step 5
Click on the ‘Submit’ button
Enter the OTP sent to your registered mobile number. Click on the ‘Submit’ button
Click on the ‘OK’ button
Your documents are stored in a highly protected data centre that is equipped with numerous levels of security control, which protects your information against unauthorised access.
How long does it take to process my FICA documents?
It may take up to 48 business hours to verify the documentation. You will receive confirmation via your registered email once the process is completed.
Should Sunbet require any further information, it will be requested via email.
You may email fica@sunbet.co.za to follow up on the progress once all documentation has been submitted.
Can I bet, deposit, and withdraw without submitting FICA documents?
In order to deposit and place a bet, all customers are required to have a valid ID/Passport number and can withdraw up to a certain amount, determined by SunBet. However, once you have exceeded your withdrawal limit you will be required to submit all the necessary documents.