That is pretty odd (even as kyc goes) but I guess if you run a web only operation where you don't see your customers in person at any point, what other option would you have...

The good thing about this aml/kyc stuff is if you aren't doing anything nefarious you USUALLY don't have anything to worry about. I say usually because governments (esp US govt) have been known to seize large amounts of money first and ask questions later. When this happens to legitimate people it's disgusting. They usually have court battles they can't win because the government took their money. Not trying to scare anyone but be careful. Also google "innocent civil asset forfeiture" to read more about this crap.