What verification documents must be obtained for a legal person?

As outlined in section 25 of the AMLTF Code of Practice, identification information must be evidenced by documents, which should include, but are not limited to:

• constitutional documents (i.e., memorandum and articles of association, partnership agreement, by-laws, charters or similar document);
• certificate of incorporation, registration, or formation;
• trade licence, registration certificate or regulatory licence (where applicable);
• powers of attorney or other authorities given by the directors;  
• a signed director’s statement as to the nature of the company’s business;
• verification documents for each beneficial owner, director or person holding s similar position of responsibility and any person acting on behalf of the  legal person; and where the legal person is a company, such other additional document that is considered essential to the verification process

Additional documents may include:

• a certificate of good standing or similar document confirming registration in the place of incorporation, registration, formation or continuation;
• copies of previous bank statements or financial reference; and
• copies of audited financial statements within the last year of the establishment of the business relationship