
Video verification of new Amazon sellers
27 Jan 2019

Last updated on 06.01.2026
Verification of the identity of new and sometimes existing sellers is a mandatory step in the process of activating an Amazon selling account. In recent years, the platform has gradually developed mechanisms for confirming data, one of which is video verification - a video call with an Amazon consultant during which the seller verifies the authenticity of documents and registration data. The first reports of tests of this feature appeared in 2019 on Amazon.ca, where the platform piloted a mechanism for recording a short video clip capturing a 5-second recording of the person setting up the account. However, the process currently looks different and has been expanded to a wide group of sellers, and Amazon uses a video call with a consultant instead of an automatic clip.
Why does Amazon use video verification for sellers?
The purpose of the process is to protect the marketplace from fraudulent accounts, abuses, and attempts to impersonate other companies. Amazon emphasizes in its communications that verification is meant to ensure safety for both buyers and other sellers operating on the platform. Video verification has become a standard part of the registration process and may also be required from sellers with a long history of activity if Amazon deems it necessary for account safety.
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Receiving notification about the need for video verification
The seller receives information about the need for video verification in two places: in the Performance Notifications section in the Seller Central panel and in the email associated with the account. Upon receiving the notification, the seller should check the Performance Notifications tab and the email inbox used during registration on Amazon. The notification contains a link to schedule a video call and detailed instructions on the next steps.
How to schedule a video call with an Amazon consultant?
Amazon allows for two scenarios for reserving a video call. The first is an instant videocall, which is available at the moment when the seller has all required documents at hand and can immediately proceed with verification. Amazon recommends this option as the fastest and simplest, as long as it is available for the given region. The second scenario is scheduling an appointment for a chosen day and time, allowing the seller to prepare for the call and choose a convenient time.
To schedule the call, the seller can click the link in the email or navigate in Seller Central to Settings, then Business Information and select Identity Information, where the option to schedule a video call is available. If the link from the email does not work, Amazon recommends copying it and pasting it into another browser. After scheduling the call, the seller sees a confirmation on the screen with general instructions regarding rescheduling or canceling the meeting. The confirmation is also sent via email.
Preparing for Amazon's video verification - technical requirements and documents
The seller must use a device that has a front camera, a stable and reliable internet connection, and either the Safari or Google Chrome browser, depending on the device's operating system. The quality of the internet connection is crucial for conducting the call without interruptions that could disrupt the verification process.
Original versions of the documents submitted during registration on Amazon must be prepared. Only original documents that were submitted at the time of registration are accepted. The first required document is a government-issued photo ID, such as a national ID card or passport. The second document is a bank statement or credit card statement that must be issued no earlier than 180 days ago. The consultant during the video call will check the authenticity of the documents and compare them with the data submitted during the account registration.
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Languages supported during Amazon video verification
The SIV (Seller Identity Verification) team supports a wide range of languages, allowing sellers from different countries to undergo verification in their native language. Available languages include: English, Chinese, Japanese, Turkish, Portuguese, Hindi, Tamil, Vietnamese, Thai, Arabic, Spanish, French, Dutch, Swedish, Polish, Italian, and German. Polish sellers can undergo verification in Polish, which significantly facilitates communication and ensures full understanding of the process. If the selected language is not available in the menu, Amazon recommends bringing a translator or interpreter to the call who can assist in communication with the consultant.
What if a seller misses the call or needs to change the appointment?
In the event that a seller cannot attend the scheduled call, Amazon sends a notification about the need to reschedule or join an instant call with a consultant. The seller can cancel or postpone the meeting through the Identity Information page or using the link received in the email. After canceling the video call, the system will automatically prompt to schedule or join a new call. The SIV team informs the seller of the outcome of each contact attempt, allowing tracking of the verification process status.
Verification statuses after the video call
After the call, the seller receives information about the meeting's outcome. Possible statuses include: successfully completed, no show, rescheduled, and canceled. If the verification was successfully completed but the account remains deactivated, Amazon recommends contacting an Account Health specialist or Seller Support to clarify the reason for deactivation. Sometimes despite positive verification there may be additional requirements or issues that need to be resolved before full account activation.
Does video verification only apply to new Amazon sellers?
While the video verification process was originally tested on new accounts, current information shows that the procedure may also apply to sellers with a long history of activity if Amazon deems it necessary for account safety or data verification. Examples from the Amazon sellers' forum show cases where sellers who have been active on the platform for 17 years also received a request for Video Identity Verification. This means that video verification is not a process reserved exclusively for new accounts and can be initiated at any time during the operation of a selling account.
Summary
Amazon video verification is now a standard step in confirming sellers' identities and may be required both when setting up an account and during operation. The current process is based on a video call with a consultant, during which the seller confirms data and submits documents, uses a device with a camera and stable internet, can choose their preferred service language, can change or cancel the date if needed, and receives a verification status after the conversation ends. Although the initial tests from years ago had a different format involving an automated 5-second recording, the current process is more detailed and tailored for document verification and account authenticity. Sellers should be prepared for the possibility of receiving a video verification request regardless of how long they have been operating on Amazon.
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions about Amazon video verification
How long does the Amazon video verification process take?
A video call with an Amazon consultant typically lasts from 10 to 20 minutes. After the call, the seller receives information about the verification status: successfully completed, no show, rescheduled, or canceled.
What documents are required during Amazon video verification?
The following original documents submitted during registration are required: a government-issued photo ID (national ID card or passport) and a bank statement or credit card statement issued no earlier than 180 days ago.
Can video verification on Amazon be conducted in Polish?
Yes, the SIV team supports Polish. Polish sellers can choose Polish during the video call scheduling, which ensures full understanding of the process and communication in their native language.
What if I cannot participate in the scheduled video call?
The seller can cancel or reschedule the meeting through the Identity Information page in Seller Central or by using the link received in the email. After cancellation, the system will prompt to schedule a new call.
Does video verification only apply to new Amazon sellers?
No, the procedure may also apply to sellers with a long history of activity. Amazon may require video verification at any time if it deems it necessary for account safety.
What device is needed for Amazon video verification?
A device with a front camera, a stable internet connection, and either the Safari or Google Chrome browser, depending on the operating system, is required.
What should I do if my account remains deactivated after positive verification?
Amazon recommends contacting an Account Health specialist or Seller Support to clarify the reason for deactivation. Sometimes additional requirements may arise that need resolution before full account activation.
Can I conduct an instant video call instead of scheduling an appointment?
Yes, if the instant videocall option is available for the given region and the seller has all required documents at hand, Amazon recommends this option as the fastest and simplest.