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Turkey’s Identity Verification and AML Regulations: What You Need to Know

As businesses operating in Turkey, it is essential to comply with the country’s regulations on identity verification and anti-money laundering (AML). Failure to do so can result in severe penalties and reputational damage.

Documents Required for Verification


In Turkey, the following documents are considered proof of identity:

  • A valid passport
  • A current Turkish driving license
  • A National Identity Card
  • A Residence Permit

For address verification, the following documents are accepted:

  • A current utility bill (such as gas, electricity, telephone or mobile phone bill)
  • A document issued by a government department showing the end-user’s address
  • A bank statement (no older than three months) that shows the end-user’s address

Timing of Verification


Identity verification is not a one-time process, but rather a continuous procedure. It is required in multiple instances as per regulations, and the timing depends on your requirements and conveyance to Shufti Pro.

Enhanced Due Diligence Measures


In cases where there are no readily available regulations, clients may rely on enhanced due diligence measures for high-risk end-users. Shufti Pro offers an AML screening service that screens an individual’s selected ID attributes against watch-lists of global regulatory authorities, foreign and domestic databases, Politically Exposed Persons (PEPs), and sanctioned individuals.

Reliance on External Services


Turkish regulations allow businesses to seek the services of a third-party provider to apply measures of due diligence. However, it is essential to collect all necessary data from the third-party provider without undue delay. Shufti Pro can provide such services as an external third-party provider.

Record Retention


As per Turkish regulations, businesses are required to retain data for not less than eight years. This includes AML and KYC obligations for due diligence. In cases where this information is processed, collected, and managed by a relevant third-party provider, businesses are liable to collect all necessary information without undue delay.

Conclusion


Complying with Turkey’s identity verification and AML regulations requires attention to detail and a thorough understanding of the requirements. By following these guidelines and utilizing services like Shufti Pro, businesses can ensure compliance and avoid potential penalties and reputational damage.