Learn how to verify your identity on Upwork, including accepted IDs, steps to complete verification, troubleshooting tips, and how Upwork protects your privacy.
Note: We may require frequent identity verifications to maintain a secure and fraud-free environment. This is part of routine checks and does not necessarily indicate any issues with your account.
In this article
When and why am I asked to verify my identity?
You’ll be notified by email and/or when you log in if verification (or re-verification) is required. Once notified, you’ll have seven days to verify, or your account may be put on hold.
Knowing people are who they say they are is important for everyone's security and may be needed for regulatory compliance. You might be asked to verify if:
- You're new and just getting started
- You're applying to U.S.-only jobs
- There’s a need to confirm account ownership, including the U.S. Government Know Your Customer (KYC) compliance program
- Your account was suspended and you're resuming activity
- Upwork detects a possible mismatch or risk
- You’re being re-verified periodically
How do I verify my identity when asked?
Once you receive an email from us asking you to verify, select the link and follow the instructions from there. If you’ve gotten multiple requests to verify your account, just follow the instructions from the most recent message — that’s the one that matters.
Can I verify my identity before Upwork asks me to?
Yes. Freelancers can choose to verify their identity and get the identity verification badge displayed on their profile for 35 Connects. Learn more about the identity verification badge.
What types of identity verification does Upwork use?
Depending on your situation, you might be asked to complete one or more of the following:
- Government ID — Upload a valid, government-issued photo ID with your name, photo, date of birth, and address (address not required for passports)
- Location for U.S.-only jobs — Proof you’re physically in the U.S. for certain jobs
- Government ID and location — For regulatory compliance
- Visual — A short video call or phone photo to confirm the person in your ID matches your profile photo
- Phone number — Enter a code sent via SMS or call to confirm
What do I need to prepare for identity verification?
- A valid government-issued photo ID. Country on ID and profile must match
- Your Upwork profile photo must clearly show you, as you currently look
- Names must match across your ID, withdrawal method, and tax info. Upwork will use the name on your ID as your verified name. Name mismatch? Contact support
- A phone with a working camera (to scan a QR code)
Which IDs are accepted for identity verification?
Your ID must include: photo, signature, name, date of birth, and address (unless it’s a passport).
Accepted IDs include:
- Passport
- Driver’s license
- National ID card (NIC/CNIC)
- NBI Clearance (Philippines)
- Tax or voter ID
- Postal ID
- Other valid government-issued photo IDs with required info
- Documents for refugees/asylum seekers (e.g., UNHCR, Asylum Seeker Certificate)
Not accepted:
- Student, employee, or library cards
- Photocopies or temporary paper IDs
- Military or health cards
- Anything handwritten or expired
How long does identity verification take?
Most users are verified within minutes after submitting clear, matching info. If we need more time to review, we’ll notify you by email.
Note: Your identity verification badge will only appear after you accept your first contract.
Having trouble with the verification process?
If it’s stalling or timing out, here are a few quick things to try:
- Clear your browser’s cache and cookies
- Double-check that all four corners of your ID are clearly visible in the image
- If things still aren’t working, try switching to a different browser or device
What happens if I don't verify my identity?
If you don’t complete verification:
- You can’t submit proposals, accept direct hire offers, or withdraw earnings
- Active proposals will be deleted (Connects will not be refunded)
- Your account may be suspended
- In serious cases, funds may be returned to clients
Deliberately uploading falsified documentation is a crime and will result in permanent suspension. Upwork may report attempts to submit fake documents.
What about my privacy and identity verification?
Upwork is serious about protecting your personal data:
- Your information is governed by Upwork’s privacy policy
- We don’t sell your data
- ID images are deleted after 30 days
- Clients only see that you're verified—not your documents