Summary: OKX is a well-regulated global crypto exchange available in over 160 countries but is restricted in the USA, Canada, the UK and several other regions due to regulatory and sanction-related issues.
Users are advised to keep up to date with OKX's terms of service as the regulatory landscape and licensure of the exchange continues to evolve.
OKX offers its cryptocurrency trading services in over 160 countries globally, with certain restrictions in regions like the US and Singapore due to local regulatory constraints.
Over 160 across all continents.
USA, Singapore, the Netherlands, UK and other countries.
Based in Seychelles and licensed by the FSA.
What Countries Does OKX Restrict?
OKX, headquartered in Hong Kong, blocks access to its services in several countries due to regional financial regulations. The platform is not available in the United States, Canada, Malaysia, Singapore, the Bahamas, and the United Kingdom.
Section 2.2 of OKX's Service Agreement also prohibit use in countries facing political instability or international sanctions, including Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Syria, and regions like Crimea, Donetsk, and Luhansk. In Hong Kong, the platform restricts derivatives trading.
Additionally, OKX is not accessible in U.S. territories such as Puerto Rico, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, as well as in countries like Bangladesh, Bolivia, and Malta. The list of restricted countries may change as regulations evolve, so users should regularly check for updates.
What Countries Does OKX Support?
OKX is available in over 160 countries, reflecting its broad reach in the global cryptocurrency market. Despite facing restrictions in certain regions, the platform remains accessible to a vast user base.
Users are advised to review OKX's full terms of service and stay informed about local regulations to ensure compliant and informed trading. This widespread availability highlights OKX's commitment to providing global access to cryptocurrency trading.
OKX Licensing and Regulation
OKX is one of the most well-regulated tier-1 exchanges in the world, operating under stringent regulatory standards across multiple regions. The platform holds several key licenses that support its global operations:
- Seychelles: Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) license from the Seychelles Financial Services Authority (FSA).
- Middle East: Minimal Viable Product (MVP) Preparatory license from Dubai's Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA), enabling operations in the UAE.
- Hong Kong: In the final stages of securing a VASP license to comply with local regulations.
- Australia: OKX Australia Pty Ltd and OKX Australia Financial Pty Ltd serve Australian users under local registration.
- Europe: OKCoin Europe LTD, operating under the OKX brand, serves users within the European Economic Area.
- Brazil: OKX Serviços Digitais Ltda. serves Brazilian users registered on or after June 15, 2023.
- Singapore: OKX SG Pte. Ltd. serves Singaporean users from October 13, 2023 and has received an In-Principle Approval from MAS.
- Netherlands: Registered with De Nederlandsche Bank (DNB) to ensure compliance with European regulations.
These licenses demonstrate OKX’s strong commitment to regulatory compliance and secure operations worldwide.
Does OKX Require KYC?
Yes, OKX mandates KYC (Know Your Customer) verification for all users who wish to trade on the platform. This process involves submitting personal identification documents, such as a passport or driver's license, to confirm your identity.
For detailed instructions on completing KYC, refer to OKX's official guidelines.
Can I Use OKX in the US?
No, OKX is not available to users in the United States due to regulatory restrictions. Although using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) might provide technical access, doing so would violate OKX's terms of service and potentially breach U.S. laws. It's crucial to follow local regulations when considering the use of international trading platforms.
Bottom Line
In summary, OKX is a highly regulated exchange with broad global reach, but it enforces strict access restrictions based on regional regulations and international sanctions. While available in over 160 countries, the platform remains inaccessible in the U.S. and several other regions.
Users must adhere to local laws and OKX’s terms of service, including mandatory KYC verification, to ensure compliant and secure trading.