To keep Couchsurfing safe and trustworthy, we are updating what it means to be “verified.”
Going forward, a verified profile means that a member has confirmed their real identity using a government-issued ID. This applies to all members, including those who previously completed payment or lifetime verification.
This article explains why this change is happening, how ID verification works, and how we protect your information.
Why is ID verification required if I am already verified?
In the past, verification could mean different things, such as payment verification, address verification, or phone verification. This created confusion and made it harder for members to know what the verified badge actually represented.
We are simplifying verification so it has one clear meaning: the member has confirmed they are who they say they are. This helps improve safety, trust, and transparency across the community.
Will I be charged to verify my government ID?
There is no additional fee to complete Government ID Verification if you have already paid for verification.
What types of ID are accepted?
You can use one of the following valid, government-issued documents:
- Passport
- Driver's license
- National identity card
Your ID must be:
- Government-issued
- Valid and not expired
What is the ID verification process?
ID verification is completed in the Couchsurfing mobile app and usually takes just a few minutes.
iPhone
1. Tap Account in the bottom-right corner.
2. Tap your profile photo to open your profile.
3. Scroll down and tap Verified Member (or Partially Verified).
4. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the ID verification process.
Android
1. Tap the More menu in the bottom-right corner (this may appear as an icon with three vertical lines).
2. Tap your name at the top of the menu to open your profile.
3. Scroll down and tap Complete Verification.
4. Follow the on-screen prompts to finish the ID verification process.
How long does ID verification take?
Uploading your ID and completing the video step usually takes just a few minutes. Verification is often completed shortly after, though some submissions may take longer if additional review is needed.
You will be notified in the app once your verification is complete.
What if the name on my Couchsurfing profile does not match my ID?
Your ID name should reflect your legal name. If you use a nickname, shortened name, or preferred name on your profile, that is okay.
As long as your ID is valid and belongs to you, your verification can still be approved.
What if my birthday on my profile does not match my ID?
Your date of birth must match your government ID.
If there is a mistake on your profile, you can update it before starting ID verification to avoid delays.
Who processes my ID verification?
Couchsurfing partners with Entrust (formerly known as Onfido), a trusted identity verification provider, to securely handle your documents and biometric data.
Your information is encrypted and processed according to strict security standards. Couchsurfing does not store your ID images on its own servers.
You can review Entrust's privacy policy for more details on how your data is handled: Entrust privacy notice.
How is my information kept secure?
We take data security seriously.
Couchsurfing partners with Onfido, a trusted identity verification provider, to securely process ID verification. Your documents and biometric data are encrypted and handled according to strict security standards.
Couchsurfing does not store your ID images on its own servers.
How will my data be used? Will it be shared?
Your information is used only to verify your identity.
It is not shared with other members and is not used for marketing or advertising. Data is handled in accordance with our Privacy Policy and applicable data protection laws.
Why is Couchsurfing making this change now?
As the community grows, so does the responsibility to ensure safety and trust between members. This update has also been requested by members who want stronger signals of trust on the platform.
Clear, consistent identity verification helps reduce fraud, impersonation, and misuse, and makes the verified badge more meaningful for everyone.
Need more help?
If you are having trouble completing ID verification or have questions not covered here, please contact Couchsurfing Support and we will be happy to help.