FICA verification helps protect buyers, sellers, and the auction platform by confirming who is participating before bidding or before assets are released.
The exact documents required may depend on whether the bidder is an individual, company, dealer, sole proprietor, or trust.
Private buyers
Private buyers should prepare:
- A clear copy of a South African identity document or valid passport where applicable.
- Recent proof of residential address, normally not older than three months.
- Any additional verification documents requested for the specific auction.
Companies and dealers
Companies and dealers may be asked for:
- Company registration documents.
- Business proof of address.
- VAT registration details, where applicable.
- Identity documents for authorised representatives.
- Written authorisation or proxy documentation for the person bidding.
- Director, member, or ownership documentation where required.
Sole proprietors
A sole proprietor may need to provide the owner’s identity document, proof of residential address, trading information, and VAT details if registered for VAT.
Trusts
Trusts may be required to provide the trust deed, letter of authority, trustee identity documents, proof of address for trustees, and written authorisation for the person acting on behalf of the trust.
Important notes
A driver’s licence is not usually accepted as the main identity document. Foreign buyers may be asked for passport, visa, or traffic register documentation.
If a buyer lives or operates from premises belonging to another person, supporting documents such as an affidavit, lease agreement, property owner identity document, or related proof may be requested.
Documents must be clear, current, and suitable for verification. Bid and Buy Auctions may request updated or additional documents where required by law, risk review, payment checks, or auction conditions.