What Is an AML Review
AML (Anti-Money Laundering) is a set of procedures for preventing money laundering. When a bank or payment system marks a transaction with the status "AML review pending," it means the payment has been paused for manual or automated review for regulatory compliance.
This does not mean you are accused of fraud — it is a standard compliance procedure that can affect completely legitimate transactions.
Why It Happens
Unusual transaction size. In most countries banks are required to report transactions exceeding a certain threshold (e.g., $10,000 in the US). Large amounts are automatically placed in the review queue.
Structuring. Multiple smaller transactions suspiciously close to the reporting threshold may be perceived as an attempt to avoid reporting obligations.
Atypical activity. A sudden change in patterns: a rarely used account making a large transfer, an unfamiliar counterparty, an unusual destination region.
High-risk counterparty. The recipient or sender operates in a sector with elevated AML risk: cryptocurrency, gambling, international trade.
Connection to scrutinised jurisdictions. Transactions involving countries on the FATF "grey list" or "black list" automatically require additional review.
What to Do
Don't panic, and don't try to speed things up through pressure. AML reviews are a regulatory requirement, not a bank whim. Aggressive pressure can increase suspicion.
Prepare documents in advance. A typical package includes: a contract or invoice confirming the legitimacy of the payment; account statements or tax returns (source of funds); passport and business registration documents.
Proactively contact the bank's compliance department. Clarify exactly which documents are needed and provide them as quickly as possible.
Do not initiate a duplicate transfer. While the first payment is under review, sending a duplicate transfer can heighten suspicion and freeze both payments.
Request status in writing. This creates a documented communication trail and helps speed up the review.
Typical Timelines
- Automated review: 1–24 hours
- Manual review by a compliance officer: 1–5 business days
- Extended review with document request: up to 30 business days
- Complex cases: no fixed deadline until satisfactory explanations are provided
FAQ
Can funds be frozen permanently? If the bank does not receive a satisfactory explanation, it may decline the transaction and return the funds. Permanent freezing without a court order is rare and only possible as part of a criminal investigation.
What happens if I don't respond to the bank's request? The bank has the right to return the funds to the sender and close the account if there is systematic refusal to cooperate.
Will an AML review affect my credit history? No, AML reviews are not reported to credit bureaus. However, if the account is forcibly closed as a result of the review, this may complicate opening accounts at other banks.
If your payment is stuck in an AML review or you need a reliable channel for international settlements, Marix can help you find a solution.