Your membership and verification are two separate things. Paying for one doesn't automatically give you the other. Here's how they work.
What's the Difference Between My Membership and Verification?
Your membership gives you access to Couchsurfing features like sending stay requests, chatting with members, and creating events.
Verification is a separate step. It confirms your identity using a government-issued ID. Once verified, a Verification Badge appears on your profile that other members can see.
Do I Need to Get Verified?
Verification is optional. Your membership already gives you full access to the platform. That said, a Verification Badge goes a long way when you're reaching out to hosts or welcoming guests — it shows people you're the real deal.
How Do I Get Verified?
You can start verification from any Get Verified prompt on the platform.
On mobile:
- Tap Verify Now from any Get Verified prompt
- Review the verification details and tap Continue
- Complete the payment
- Follow the onscreen prompts to complete the verification process
On the web:
- Click Verify Now from any Get Verified prompt
- Review the verification details and click Continue
- Complete the payment
- Scan the QR code with your phone to download or open the Couchsurfing mobile app
- Open the app and go to the Library
- Tap Finish Verification
- Follow the onscreen prompts to complete the verification process
You'll get an in-app notification once your verification is complete. Automated checks usually take just a few minutes.
A Couple Things to Know:
- Accepted ID types include passports, driver's licenses, and national ID cards. Accepted formats may vary by region.
- If automated verification fails, you'll be notified in your Activity Center and can contact support for a manual review.
- Your personal data is handled securely by our identity verification partner in accordance with privacy and data protection laws.
- Once verified, your Verification Badge will appear on your profile across all platforms.
Need more help? Get in touch. You can also reach us anytime through Settings → Contact Support.