Complete Guide to World ID Credentials
How to Authenticate World ID with ID Cards or Passports
1. What are Credentials
World ID Credentials is a feature that allows you to verify your World ID using NFC-enabled ID documents like My Number Cards or passports.
Key Point
Even if there's no Orb nearby, you can raise your World ID verification level using your My Number Card or passport.
Key Features
Complete on Smartphone
Verify at home with an NFC-enabled smartphone
Privacy Protection
Prove only necessary information with zero-knowledge proofs
Global Support
Supports passports from many countries including Japan
Earn WLD
Receive WLD with Credential verification too
2. Supported Documents and Countries
Supported Documents
My Number Card (Japan)
My Number Card issued in Japan. Notification cards are not supported.
NFC-Enabled Passport
Most passports issued after 2006 are supported.
Supported Countries/Regions
Credential verification is available in the following countries/regions. You must reside in a supported country.
* Supported countries are expanding. Check the official website for the latest information.
3. Verification Steps
The process is the same for ID cards and passports. No PIN or password entry required.
Open World App
Open the World ID tab and tap "Add Credential"
Select Document
Choose "My Number Card" or "Passport" as your document
Scan with NFC
Place your ID card or passport against the back of your phone to read via NFC
Verification Complete
Once verified, the Credential is added to your World ID
4. Privacy and Data Protection
Data Stored Only on Your Device
All Credential information is encrypted and stored in the Personal Custody Package on your smartphone. World Foundation, Tools for Humanity, and other third parties cannot access your ID document data.
Selective Disclosure via Zero-Knowledge Proofs
When authenticating with Credentials, you can prove only the necessary information.
Example: Age Verification
Prove only that you are "18 or older". Your date of birth, name, address, and other personal information are never disclosed.
5. Use Cases
Age Verification
Prove your age without showing ID when purchasing alcohol or using age-restricted services
WLD Airdrop
Receive WLD tokens with Credential verification (less than Orb verification)
Service Authentication
Age and identity verification for World ID-enabled services
Nationality Proof
Prove you hold a passport from a specific country (personal info not disclosed)
6. Differences from Orb Verification
| Item | Orb Verification | Credential Verification |
|---|---|---|
| Method | Iris scan | NFC scan of ID card/passport |
| Location | Must visit Orb location | Complete at home with smartphone |
| WLD Amount | Higher | Lower |
| Uniqueness | One ID per person via biometrics | Not strictly guaranteed |
| Age Proof | Not available | Available (ZK proof) |
| Requirements | World App, yourself | World App, NFC phone, supported document |
Combining Both Verification Methods
Orb verification and Credential verification can be used together. Prove you're human with Orb, then add age or nationality proofs with Credentials to access more services.
7. Troubleshooting
NFC Won't Read
- โข Check that NFC is enabled on your phone
- โข Slightly adjust the position of your ID card/passport and retry
- โข Try removing your phone case
- โข Keep the card still during scanning
Passport Not Supported
- โข Passports issued before 2006 may not have NFC
- โข Check if there's an NFC symbol on the cover
- โข Verify your country is in the supported list
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