Countries That Commonly Require eKYC and levels
There isn’t a single official global list of countries that require eKYC, because rules vary by telecom providers, apps, and service types. However, many countries mandate identity verification (local eSIM/pSIM registration or app-level eKYC), especially across Asia, the Middle East, and parts of Europe.
Travel eSIM (eg. AirSims and competitors) are generally not subject to these restrictions, however certain local services and local apps may require eKYC. This article aims to educate you.
ℹ️ This information is general in nature and subject to change with local laws evolving.
🌏 Countries with Strict / Mandatory eKYC (Local eSIM/pSIM + Apps)
- 🇨🇳 China
- 🇰🇷 South Korea
- 🇯🇵 Japan
- 🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates
- 🇸🇦 Saudi Arabia
- 🇶🇦 Qatar
- 🇰🇼 Kuwait
- 🇮🇳 India
What to expect:
- Passport required for local eSIM/pSIM activation
- Facial recognition or biometric checks (in some cases)
- App access tied to verified phone numbers
🌏 Countries with Moderate eKYC (Local eSIM/pSIM Required, Apps Vary)
- 🇸🇬 Singapore
- 🇹🇭 Thailand
- 🇲🇾 Malaysia
- 🇮🇩 Indonesia
- 🇻🇳 Vietnam
- 🇵🇭 Philippines
- 🇹🇷 Turkey
What to expect:
- ID required for SIM purchase
- OTP (SMS verification) for most apps
- Full eKYC mainly for banking, fintech, or high-trust services
🌍 Europe (Regulated but Less Restrictive for Tourists)
- 🇩🇪 Germany
- 🇫🇷 France
- 🇪🇸 Spain
- 🇮🇹 Italy
What to expect:
- ID required for SIM registration (varies by provider)
- Strong eKYC for banking/fintech
- Most travel apps accessible without heavy restrictions
🌎 Countries with Minimal eKYC (Tourist-Friendly)
- 🇺🇸 United States
- 🇨🇦 Canada
- 🇦🇺 Australia
- 🇳🇿 New Zealand
What to expect:
- Local eSIM/pSIM purchase may require ID, but less strict
- Most apps work without local identity verification
- Minimal friction for travellers
🧠 Key Takeaways for Travellers
- Local eSIM/pSIM registration does not always equal full eKYC, but they are increasingly linked
- Asia and the Middle East tend to have the strictest enforcement
- eSIM does not bypass eKYC where local regulations apply
- Apps (especially payments, transport, and delivery) often require additional verification
