Video identity verification is a quick way to confirm your identity when registering a SIM card or eSIM. All you need is an ID, a phone with a camera, and internet access. Once your identity has been verified, you can activate your number and start using Lyca Mobile’s services. Start the online activation process
Watch the step-by-step video tutorial
Would you like to see the entire process of registering your number and activating your SIM card or eSIM? Watch the instructional video below, which shows all the steps of the photo verification process.
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(Video: “Video ID Verification on Lyca Mobile – Step-by-Step SIM and eSIM Registration”)
If you need additional guidance or encounter any issues during registration, you'll find detailed instructions and answers to frequently asked questions below.
What is video photo verification?
Video photo verification is a modern, fully secure, and remote method of identity verification. It allows for instant verification of your personal information without having to visit a physical retail location or wait for a courier.
During this process, a special, secure system analyzes whether your face matches the photo on your official ID (such as an ID card or passport). The entire process takes place automatically or with the support of artificial intelligence algorithms, which guarantees the highest level of protection against identity theft and attempted number fraud.
All transmitted data is immediately encrypted in accordance with the strict standards of the GDPR and the telecommunications industry’s security standards. Proof of identity is required solely to confirm that the person registering the card is the actual owner of the document.
| Feature | Video photo verification | In-person registration |
|---|---|---|
| Where do you complete it? | Online (from home or on the go) | At a point of sale |
| Duration | A few minutes (available 24/7) | Must visit during business hours |
| Requirements | Phone or computer with a camera | In-person presence |
| Travel | None (can be done from home) | Travel to the location |
Why is SIM or eSIM registration mandatory?
In Poland, the requirement to register all prepaid SIM cards and eSIM profiles stems directly from the law (the Telecommunications Law and the so-called Anti-Terrorism Act). All telecommunications providers operating in the country are legally required to link every active phone number to a specific individual or company.
The main purpose of these regulations is to enhance user safety, limit anonymous abuse, and combat telephone fraud and cybercrime. For customers, this process ensures that no one can impersonate them using their number. Remember: until the number registration is successfully completed, the SIM card or eSIM remains inactive, and you cannot make calls or use the internet with it.
What should you prepare before starting photo verification?
To ensure the entire process goes smoothly and takes no more than 3–5 minutes, it’s a good idea to prepare a few basic things in advance:
ID card or passport - make sure the document is valid and undamaged. Phone, tablet, or computer with a camera - the device must have a working camera (front-facing or rear-facing). Stable internet connection – we recommend fast Wi-Fi or a stable mobile data connection. Good room lighting – your face and the document should be clearly visible (avoid having the light behind you). A few minutes of free time – the whole process will only take a moment.
The most common errors before starting the process:
A dirty camera lens on your phone. Poor lighting causing shadows on your face. An invalid ID. A face that is obscured (by sunglasses, a hat, a mask, or hair covering your eyes). Blurry or overexposed photos of your ID.
How to Complete Photo Verification: A Step-by-Step Guide
The instructions below will guide you through the entire registration and identity verification process on the Lyca Mobile website.
Step 1. Start the number registration process
Go to the dedicated registration tab and click “Start Online Activation.” Enter your phone number and SIM card number. To check your phone number, insert the SIM card into your phone or install the eSIM (the QR code is included in the purchase confirmation email). Then dial *132#, and your number will be displayed.
Step 2. Prepare your ID
Select the type of ID you will be using from the list (ID card for Polish/EU citizens or passport). Make sure the document is lying on a flat, non-glare surface.
Step 3. Take photos of your ID
The system will ask you to take a photo of the front and back of your ID card (or the page with your photo in the case of a passport). Place the document within the designated frame on the screen. Make sure all the information is perfectly in focus and legible.
Step 4. Confirm your identity on camera
Point the front-facing camera lens at your face. The system may ask you to perform a simple gesture (such as slowly turning your head or blinking) to ensure that the verification is taking place in real time.
Step 5. Wait for the verification result
The automated verification system will compare your facial biometrics with the photo on your ID. This usually takes anywhere from a few seconds to 2 minutes. You’ll see the result on your screen and receive it via email or text message.
Step 6. Activate your SIM card or eSIM
Once you receive a positive result, your number is registered. Insert the physical SIM card into your phone or download the eSIM profile to start using the services.
| Stage | What needs to be done? | Estimated time |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Registration | Start registration and enter card details | 30 seconds |
| 2. Preparation | Prepare document (ID / passport) | 30 seconds |
| 3. Document scan | Scan or photograph the document | 1 minute |
| 4. Face verification | Confirm identity in front of the camera | 45 seconds |
| 5. System verification | Wait for the verification result | 1-2 minutes |
| 6. Activation | Activate the number and turn on the phone | 1 minute |
How do I activate my eSIM after successful verification?
The Lyca Mobile virtual eSIM is a modern solution that eliminates the need for a physical SIM card. The virtual profile is installed directly in your phone’s SIM slot.
Once your photo verification has been approved, activating your eSIM is extremely simple:
Open the email with the QR code sent by Lyca Mobile. Go to your phone’s network settings (Settings -> Cellular -> Add Cellular Plan / Add eSIM). Scan the QR code with your phone’s camera. Confirm the profile installation.
With Lyca Mobile's eSIM, you can activate your new number without waiting for a physical SIM card to be delivered. All you need to do is complete the photo verification process and download the eSIM profile onto a compatible device.
You can find a detailed guide on the page: How to Activate an eSIM.
Most common photo verification issues and their solutions Encountered difficulties? Here are simple solutions to the most common problems:
Camera does not detect face Solution: Move to a brighter room. Do not stand with your back to a window or a strong light source. Make sure the camera lens is clean and unobstructed.
Document photo is rejected Solution: Turn off the flash to avoid light reflections on the plastic. Place your ID on a dark, solid background and hold your phone steady.
Process was interrupted Solution: If the internet connection was lost, simply refresh the page or click the verification link sent via email/SMS again.
Verification takes longer than usual Solution: In rare cases (e.g., an unusual or slightly damaged document), the system transfers the verification for manual review. Wait up to a dozen or so minutes.
I did not receive activation confirmation Solution: Check your SPAM or Promotions folder in your email. Restart your phone – in most cases, the number works immediately after rebooting the device.
How to increase the chances of passing photo verification? To ensure registration goes smoothly the first time, keep the following rules in mind:
Use a bright, well-lit room.
Hold the document steady while taking the photo.
Remove sunglasses, hats, or masks.
Do not cover your face with hands or hair.
Make sure all data on the document is legible and sharp.
Check that you have a stable internet connection.
Use an up-to-date web browser on your phone (e.g., Chrome, Safari).
Why choose Lyca Mobile eSIM? An eSIM card at Lyca Mobile means maximum convenience and no unnecessary formalities:
Instant delivery – the QR code arrives in your email immediately after purchase.
No physical card – eco-friendly and no waiting for a courier.
Fast activation – handle everything in a few minutes from the comfort of your couch.
Convenient installation – a simple scan of the QR code is all it takes.
Option to activate before traveling – order packages from anywhere.
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FAQ
Is photo verification safe? Yes, the process is fully secure and encrypted. Data is processed solely to satisfy the legal requirements of SIM card registration in compliance with GDPR.
How long does photo verification take? Filling out the form and scanning takes about 2-3 minutes. Automatic data approval usually takes less than 2 minutes.
Can I use a passport? Yes, you can use both a Polish/foreign national ID card and a passport for video photo verification.
Does eSIM also require registration? Yes, a virtual eSIM card is a full-fledged SIM card and requires prior identity verification in accordance with Polish law.
Can I go through the process on a smartphone? Yes, a smartphone with front and rear cameras is the ideal device for smoothly carrying out photo verification.
What to do if verification is rejected? Check the reason for rejection (e.g., illegible photo), improve the lighting or document placement, and try again.
Can I try again? Yes, you can attempt verification again as many times as you like.
When will the number be activated? The number becomes active immediately after photo verification is successfully processed and you insert the SIM card into your phone or download the eSIM profile.
Video photo verification at Lyca Mobile is a revolutionary convenience that allows for quick and fully secure number registration without leaving your home or standing in lines. The entire process takes just a few minutes – all you need is a valid ID document and a device with a camera. After successfully confirming your details, you can instantly activate a traditional SIM card or download an innovative eSIM profile and enjoy affordable, fast mobile internet worldwide.