How Long Does it Take for Amazon to Verify a New Seller Account?

TL;DR

• Amazon AU seller verification typically takes 24 hours to 2 weeks, depending on document quality and accuracy.

• Blurry scans, mismatched names, PO Box addresses, and international details commonly cause delays.

• Required documents include government ID, proof of address, bank details, and ABN (if applicable).

• Use a local Australian phone and email for smoother verification.

• If verification is stuck, review feedback in Seller Central and contact Seller Support with corrected documents.

• Sellers cannot list products or sell until verification is fully approved by Amazon.

Setting up an Amazon seller account is exciting until you hit the verification wall. Many new Amazon Australia sellers are surprised by how long the process can take, especially when documents don’t match or there’s confusion around business registration. 

While some accounts are approved within 24 hours, others face delays that stretch into weeks, stalling your entire launch. Verification isn’t just a formality, it's Amazon’s way of ensuring legitimacy and compliance with both local and platform-specific requirements. 

Amazon account setup in the right way from the start can save you a lot of trouble down the line. If you submit incomplete or mismatched documents, expect delays. For Australian sellers, things like GST details, address verification, and business structure can all impact your approval timeline.

This blog walks you through exactly what the seller verification process looks like in Australia, how long it usually takes, what causes delays, and how to avoid common mistakes. Whether you’re just getting started or stuck in review, this guide will help you move forward faster and with fewer headaches.

What is Amazon Seller Account verification?

Amazon Seller Account verification is the process Amazon uses to confirm your identity and business legitimacy before allowing you to sell on the platform. It’s designed to protect buyers and ensure that only genuine, compliant sellers operate within the marketplace.

When you register as a seller on Amazon Australia, you’ll be asked to submit several documents for review. These typically include a government-issued photo ID (such as a passport or driver’s license), a recent bank account or credit card statement, and proof of your residential or business address.

If you’re registering as a business, you may also need to provide an Australian Business Number (ABN) and GST registration details. The information you submit must be accurate and match across all documents. Any mismatch or unclear image can trigger a delay. Verification must be completed before your account becomes active and you can start listing products.

How long does Amazon Australia take to verify new seller accounts?

Amazon Australia’s seller verification process can be super quick or a bit of a wait. Some sellers get approved in just 24 hours, while others might have to wait up to 2 weeks.  It all comes down to having complete and correct documents.

If you’re getting ready to sell on Amazon, make sure everything you upload is spot-on. That one extra check can save you days of waiting. Here are several factors that can impact how long it takes. 

• Document issues are the most common cause, including blurry images, expired IDs, or mismatched names between your account and your paperwork. 

• IP address mismatches (such as registering from one country while using an address from another) can also raise red flags and trigger manual reviews.

If you’re registering a business, additional checks may apply to verify your ABN, GST status, and business registration details. Even something as simple as a typo in your address or using a PO Box instead of a street address can slow things down.

You can speed things up by double-checking everything before submission and using clear, valid documents with matching details across the board.

Common reasons for delays in Amazon account verification

#1 Incomplete or unclear documentation

One of the most frequent reasons Amazon Australia delays seller account verification is incomplete or unclear documentation. Many sellers upload images that are blurry, cropped, or difficult to read, causing Amazon to pause the review process or request new files. Others submit outdated documents, missing key details, or don’t match the name and address used during registration.

For example, if your ID has a middle name but your account does not, that can trigger a mismatch. If your utility bill doesn’t clearly show your name and address or includes handwritten notes, Amazon may reject it. Even something simple like uploading a scanned copy instead of a photo with all edges visible can lead to delays.

If you’re just getting started on Amazon as a seller, make sure to submit high-quality, full-page documents and double-check that every detail matches your account exactly. A small oversight now can cost you days or even weeks in the verification queue.

#2 Using international business entities or addresses

One of the most common reasons Amazon AU sellers face verification delays is using an overseas business entity or a foreign address during registration. While Amazon does allow international sellers, using a non-Australian address or company structure can trigger extra checks. 

This often leads to longer review times, additional document requests, or even temporary rejections.

Amazon’s systems are designed to match your business information with local government databases, such as the Australian Business Register.

If you’re using an offshore business or a foreign phone number, the automated verification may fail, forcing manual intervention. For faster processing, it's best to register with an Australian address and a valid ABN. If you’re operating internationally, ensure your documents are clear, translated (if needed), and aligned with your account details. 

The more aligned your application is with local data and expectations, the smoother your verification process will be and the sooner you can start selling.

#3 Phone/email verification issues specific to the AU region

One often overlooked cause of delay for Amazon Australia sellers is phone or email verification issues. While this step seems simple, it can create unexpected problems that hold up your entire account approval.

Some Australian sellers report not receiving the verification SMS or call due to mobile carrier restrictions or using virtual numbers that Amazon does not accept. If your phone number doesn’t match the registered country or if it’s flagged as VoIP, Amazon may pause your application for manual review.

When you’re selling on Amazon Australia, email verification can also cause delays, especially if your inbox filters out Amazon’s emails or if you’re using a domain with known deliverability issues. A missed email or a failed verification link can stall the process indefinitely.

To avoid this, always use a reliable mobile number tied to a local Australian carrier and a professional email address that you check regularly. Keep an eye on your spam folder and act quickly when verification prompts appear. 

How to speed up your Amazon AU seller verification

Waiting for Amazon to verify your seller account can feel frustrating, especially if you're eager to start listing products and making sales. The good news is, you can take a few simple steps to significantly reduce delays and move through the process faster.

• Start by preparing your documents properly. All files must be clear, high-resolution scans or photos, with no cut-off edges, shadows, or blur. Amazon prefers color documents in JPG, PNG, or PDF format. If your documents are hard to read or incomplete, your application will be flagged for manual review.

• Next, ensure all your details match exactly. The name on your government ID must match the name on your Amazon account and any bank or billing documents. Mismatched names, addresses, or business details are among the most common reasons for verification delays.

• Use official government-issued documents wherever possible. For identity, choose a valid Australian driver’s license or passport. For address verification, recent utility bills or bank statements with your full name and residential address work best. Avoid uploading anything that uses a nickname, initials, or a PO Box.

• Verify your details through trusted Australian government sources like ABN Lookup for business registrations and ensure your GST registration is active and matches your account info.

These small checks can save you days or even weeks of unnecessary back and forth with Seller Support. A clean, complete application gives Amazon less reason to delay and gets you selling sooner.

What to do if your Amazon seller account is stuck?

If your Amazon seller account is stuck in verification, you're not alone. Many Amazon Australia sellers experience delays, especially if documents don’t meet Amazon’s strict requirements or there’s a mismatch in information.  There are clear steps you can take to resolve it.

First, log in to your Seller Central account and check for any alerts or requests. Amazon may have already flagged what’s missing or unclear. If the system asks you to resubmit documents, do so carefully. Make sure the files are clear, unedited, and all information matches your account details exactly.

If there’s no progress after a few days, contact Amazon Seller Support directly. From your Seller Central dashboard, go to Help > Get Support > Selling on Amazon > Your account > Account Verification. Submit a support request explaining your situation and ask for a manual review. Be clear and polite. Attach any updated documents they may need.

If your account is denied, don’t panic. You can reapply or appeal, but make sure you’ve addressed the issue first. Review the rejection reason in detail and correct it before submitting a new application. If the reason was unclear, contact support and request clarification.

Use only official documents, ensure all names and addresses match exactly, and avoid using overseas details unless you're set up as an international seller. 

Getting stuck is frustrating, but with the right Amazon consulting expert support, you can navigate verification more smoothly. Stay persistent, pay attention to details, and don’t hesitate to reach out to experts who can guide you through the process.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) 

1. Can I sell while verification is pending?

No, you cannot start selling on Amazon Australia until your seller account verification is complete. While you can register and begin filling out your account details, product listings will remain inactive until Amazon approves your documents and verifies your identity. 

This includes restrictions on creating live listings, accessing FBA services, or running ads. Attempting to bypass this process can lead to account suspension. To avoid delays, ensure your submitted information is accurate, documents are clear, and your phone and email are verified promptly. Only after full approval will your account become active for selling.

2. Do I need a GST number before verification?

No, you do not need a GST number to complete your Amazon Australia seller account verification. However, Amazon will ask whether you are GST registered during the setup process. If your annual turnover is expected to exceed AUD 75,000, GST registration is mandatory under Australian tax law. 

Even if you're below the threshold, registering can allow you to claim GST credits on business expenses. You can still start selling without a GST number, but if your business grows quickly, it’s smart to register early and avoid any compliance issues later. Always consult a tax advisor if unsure.

 3. Can I register as a sole trader in Australia?

Yes, you can register as a sole trader to sell on Amazon Australia. It’s one of the simplest and most cost-effective business structures for new sellers. As a sole trader, you’ll need to apply for an Australian Business Number (ABN) and use it during your Amazon seller registration. 

You can also register for GST if your turnover is expected to exceed $75,000 annually. This setup allows you to operate under your name or a registered business name, manage taxes easily, and keep setup costs low while staying fully compliant with Amazon’s seller requirements.

Still stuck or unsure how to proceed?

Amazon seller account verification is the first real hurdle in your selling journey, and getting it right from the start can save you weeks of delay and missed opportunity. With the right documents, attention to detail, and a clear understanding of Amazon Australia’s requirements, you can move through the process smoothly and start selling faster.

That’s where working with an experienced Amazon consultant can make a real difference in helping you to navigate account setup, verification, and beyond, ensuring you avoid unnecessary setbacks and launch with confidence.

Book a consultation today and let us help you turn your Amazon AU account into a sales-ready business. Get verified, get listed, and start selling smarter with expert guidance every step of the way.