Picture this: You've carefully selected your products and are ready to conquer the Latin American market, only to be stopped at the very first hurdle – KYC verification. This comprehensive guide will walk you through Mercado Libre's seller verification process, helping you successfully launch your e-commerce journey in Latin America.
To comply with regulatory requirements, all cross-border sellers wishing to operate on Mercado Libre's various marketplaces must complete the Know Your Customer (KYC) verification process. This authentication system helps prevent identity theft while collecting essential business information to ensure the security of your cross-border operations.
Essential Documents for KYC Verification
The entire KYC process typically takes 5-10 minutes. To ensure smooth completion, prepare these documents in advance:
- Hardware: A desktop computer with a clear webcam and stable internet connection
- Business License: Color scan or photo of your original unified business license with at least 30 days remaining validity
- Legal Representative ID: Color scans or photos of both sides of the legal representative's valid ID card
- Ultimate Beneficial Owner Information: ID documents for all ultimate beneficial owners (defined as individuals directly or indirectly owning 25%+ shares/voting rights or having decision-making authority over company operations)
Important Notes:
- All submitted materials must be truthful, accurate, valid, and kept up-to-date
- The verification must be completed personally by the company's legal representative
- Attempts to bypass verification, provide false information, or submit forged documents may result in rejection
- Uncompleted verifications may lead to account suspension or termination
- The registration process is irreversible – once submitted, information cannot be modified
Step-by-Step KYC Verification Process
After activating your seller account, you'll see an "Updated information" prompt in your dashboard. Click this to begin verification, which consists of seven key steps:
- Company registration information entry
- Legal representative information entry
- Business license upload
- Shareholder certificate completion and upload
- ID document upload
- Live facial recognition
- Document submission
Note: You must complete verification within 17 calendar days of receiving the KYC notification to avoid listing restrictions or account suspension.
1. Company Registration Information
Accurately enter all details from your business license, including company name, registered address, and unified social credit code. Ensure perfect alignment with your original documents to avoid rejection.
2. Legal Representative Information
Provide the representative's full name, nationality, ID type, ID number, and birthdate exactly as shown on official documents.
3. Business License Upload
Submit high-quality color scans or photos of your original license. Ensure all text is legible and unobstructed. Professional scanning or high-resolution photography is recommended.
4. Shareholder Certificate
Complete and upload the shareholder certificate listing all owners with their respective share percentages, bearing the company seal. Complex ownership structures may require professional consultation.
5. ID Document Upload
Provide clear, glare-free color scans/photos of both sides of the legal representative's valid ID.
6. Facial Recognition
Complete the live verification in well-lit conditions, following on-screen instructions for movements like blinking or head-turning.
7. Submission
After completing all steps, submit for review. Processing typically takes several business days, with status visible in your seller dashboard.
KYC Verification FAQs
Q: How long does KYC verification take?
A: While the submission process takes 5-10 minutes, review typically requires several business days.
Q: What if verification fails?
A: Mercado Libre will provide rejection reasons. Correct any issues and resubmit, or contact customer service for clarification.
Q: Can third parties complete verification?
A: No. For security, the legal representative must personally complete the process.
Post-Verification Next Steps
Successful verification grants full marketplace access. Proceed to create product listings, configure shipping options, and set up payment methods to prepare for your Latin American e-commerce venture.
Ongoing Account Maintenance
KYC verification isn't permanent. Update your seller information promptly for any company changes (name, address, representative, etc.) to maintain compliance. Regular reviews prevent account issues from outdated or inaccurate data.
With this comprehensive guide, you're now equipped to navigate Mercado Libre's verification process confidently. Prepare your documents carefully, follow each step precisely, and embark on your successful Latin American e-commerce journey.