Which countries have KYC requirements?
CDD rules exist across the FATF global network, but countries differ on scope, triggers, methods, thresholds, ownership, monitoring, and records.
Direct answer
KYC requirements are widespread but not uniform
Countries across the FATF global network implement AML/CFT customer-due-diligence standards through local laws and sector rules. That does not create one global KYC law. Coverage, trigger events, thresholds, acceptable verification methods, beneficial ownership, ongoing monitoring, and record periods vary.
kyc0 currently publishes source-linked summaries for Australia, Canada, Germany, Hong Kong, the United Kingdom, and the United States. This is a researched coverage list, not a claim that only those countries have KYC requirements.
Why a global KYC country list is not enough
- A country may regulate different financial and non-financial sectors under separate instruments.
- The same business can face different rules through local entities, licenses, products, and delivery channels.
- A jurisdiction may be in transition, and old and new procedures can coexist for defined customer classes.
- FATF standards guide national frameworks but do not replace the local legal text.
Check KYC scope before collecting documents
For each market, identify the regulated entity and activity, the precise CDD trigger, the customer type, and the controlling source. Only then define the collection and verification path. Country name alone cannot answer whether a particular product must run KYC.
Continue the research
Related KYC answers and working guides
Evidence
Sources and scope
International AML/CFT standards, including customer due diligence and beneficial ownership.