Do I need KYC to use Elios?
Not for most of the app. You can create your account, set up your wallet, deposit, send, receive, and earn without identity verification.
KYC is only required when you activate your Visa card. Verification is run by Rain, our regulated issuing partner, for one purpose: issuing your card. It only takes a couple of minutes, and once approved you can add your card to Apple Wallet and start spending.
In short: your money does not require permission, your card does. That is how a self-custodial wallet and a regulated card program fit together.
Who handles my identity verification, and who can see my documents?
Identity verification is performed by our licensed card issuing partner, not by Elios. When you activate your card, your details and documents are sent securely and directly to Rain, and they are never stored on your device.
Elios does not have access to the documents and personal information you submit during verification. We only receive the outcome we need to operate your card, such as whether your verification was approved.
This separation is deliberate. Your identity data sits with the regulated entity that is legally required to hold it, and nowhere else.
What happens if my KYC is rejected?
KYC verification only gates the card. Your funds are never affected by a verification outcome.
Rejections are sometimes just a document issue, such as a blurry photo, an expired ID, or details that do not match. In those cases you can usually resolve it by re-submitting with corrected information.
Note that verification decisions are made by our licensed issuing partner, under their regulatory obligations, so Elios cannot approve or override an outcome. Card eligibility also depends on your country of residence; some countries cannot be supported at this time.
If your verification was rejected and you believe it should not have been, contact Elios support and we will help you understand the next steps available.