- •Crypto is legal to trade in Russia, but cannot be used for payments.
- •Ruble funding and KYC policies vary, so choose exchanges with clear deposit options and withdrawal limits.
- •Platform transparency matters, look for proof-of-reserves, strong liquidity, and accessible customer support.
Trading crypto is legal in Russia, but spending it isn’t. Since 2020, digital assets have been treated as property, not currency. More recently, businesses gained limited access to crypto for cross-border payments. For regular users, finding a crypto exchange Russia actually works with means focusing on platforms that still support ruble transfers, show real proof of reserves, and keep trading costs low with tight spreads.
Crypto enthusiasts in Russia should also prioritize platforms that align with local laws. Ideally, exchanges should operate transparently and, where possible, cooperate with the Central Bank’s regulatory expectations, even if they’re not formally licensed under Russian jurisdiction.
Crypto Exchanges Russia – Top 6 Picks
We reviewed over 100 platforms with one goal: finding the ones that still work for Russian users without cutting corners. The list below includes only those that check every box; on access, liquidity, transparency, and cost.
- MEXC – Best exchange for altcoins and low fees
- BYDFi – Top no KYC platform with high leverage
- Bitunix – Best user-friendly no KYC derivatives exchange
- Bybit – Most liquid platform for high-volume traders
- KuCoin – Best for RUB-based P2P and trading bots
- OKX – Most advanced features and trading options
| Exchange | Cryptos | Spot Fees | Future Fees | Max Leverage | Bonus | KYC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. MEXC | 3137+ | 0.05% / 0.05% | 0.00% / 0.02% | 500x | $20 | Yes |
| 2. BYDFi | 801+ | 0.00% / 0.10% | 0.02% / 0.06% | 200x | $300 | No |
| 3. Bitunix | 541+ | 0.10% / 0.10% | 0.02% / 0.06% | 125x | $5,500 | No |
| 4. Bybit | 726+ | 0.10% / 0.10% | 0.02% / 0.055% | 100x | $30,000 | Yes |
| 5. KuCoin | 987+ | 0.10% / 0.10% | 0.02% / 0.06% | 125x | $10,500 | Yes |
| 6. OKX | 349+ | 0.08% / 0.10% | 0.02% / 0.05% | 125x | $10 | Yes |
1. MEXC
MEXC remains a top choice for Russian traders who need access to a large number of altcoins and low fees. The platform supports over 3,137+ cryptocurrencies, one of the highest in the market. It was also among the first three exchanges to list the $TRUMP meme-coin within four days of its launch, reflecting its speed in supporting trending tokens.
For derivatives, MEXC offers 433+ perpetual contracts with leverage up to 500x. Spot trading comes with a flat 0.05% maker/taker fee, while futures trades cost 0.000% for makers and 0.020% for takers. With over $6 billion in daily futures volume, liquidity is stable across both major and small-cap pairs.
The platform includes advanced features like copy trading, trading bots, and a demo mode for testing strategies. Deposits can be made through SEPA, PayPal, Apple Pay, and crypto, with wide fiat support. The interface may require some learning, but it delivers strong tools for experienced users.
If you want to learn more about the platform’s tools, supported assets, and security features, you can read our full MEXC review.
What we like about MEXC:
- Supported Cryptocurrencies: 3,137+
- Futures Contracts: 433+
- Max Leverage: 500x
- Spot Trading Fees: 0.05% maker / 0.05% taker
- Futures Trading Fees: 0.00% maker / 0.020% taker
- KYC: KYC required
- Deposits & Withdrawals: Supports crypto, SEPA, PayPal, Apple Pay, MoonPay, and more
MEXC Pros and Cons
| 👍 MEXC Pros | 👎 MEXC Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Over 3137+ cryptocurrencies available on Spot Trading | ❌ Moderate Security |
| ✅ Up to 500x leverage | ❌ Interface may be overwhelming for beginners unfamiliar with pro-level tools |
| ✅ Lowest trading fees | |
| ✅ Advanced products and features |
2. BYDFi
BYDFi appeals to Russian traders who value anonymity and fast on-chain token access. The exchange supports 801+ cryptocurrencies and 421+ futures contracts, with leverage up to 200x. Spot trades have 0.00% maker and 0.10% taker fees, while futures cost 0.020% maker and 0.060% taker, competitive for high-volume and margin traders.
The platform does not require KYC for basic usage. Traders can access spot, futures, copy trading, grid and martingale bots, and demo trading without verification. Verified users enjoy higher daily withdrawal limits (1 BTC no-KYC, 1.5 BTC KYC Level 1). Fiat deposits are limited to credits, SEPA, Apple/Google Pay via partners like Banxa and Transak; fiat withdrawals aren’t available.
In April 2025, BYDFi launched its MoonX on-chain tool, integrating centralized and decentralized trading. Users can access 500,000+ meme-coin tokens on Solana and BNB Chain without managing wallets or gas, orders match via CEX, but execute on-chain. This tool provides limit/market, stop-loss/take-profit, plus real-time smart contracts scans, all via the main platform
While daily spot volume is modest (~$164 m) compared to major exchanges, futures volume reaches $5.6 b, offering deep liquidity on derivatives. BYDFi also promotes XRP remittance solutions in Russia, and provides a clear guide for RUB on-ramping, benefits for local users.
If you want detailed data on BYDFi’s trading tools, security measures, and withdrawal policies, read our full BYDFi review.
What we like about BYDFi:
- Supported Cryptocurrencies: 801+
- Futures Contracts: 421+
- Max Leverage: 200x
- Spot Trading Fees: 0.00% maker / 0.10% taker
- Futures Trading Fees: 0.020% maker / 0.060% taker
- KYC: No KYC
- Deposits: Crypto, credit/debit, SEPA, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Banxa, Transak; no fiat withdrawals
BYDFi Pros & Cons
| 👍 BYDFi Pros | 👎 BYDFi Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ 801+ Cryptos supported | ❌ No staking, lending, or NFT products |
| ✅ Features copy trading, grid bots, demo accounts, and MoonX memecoin tool | ❌ Lacks advanced order types |
| ✅ Low fees | |
| ✅ Up to 200x leverage | |
| ✅ Registered with U.S. FinCEN and Canada FINTRAC | |
| ✅ Free demo account |
3. Bitunix
Bitunix ranks at the top for traders in Russia who want deep liquidity, low fees, and wide asset access without going through KYC. The exchange supports over 541+ cryptocurrencies for spot trading and 400+ perpetual contracts, giving professionals and altcoin seekers plenty of options. Leverage goes up to 125x, which suits high-risk traders, while fees stay low at 0.02% maker / 0.06% taker on futures.
Founded in 2022 and based in Dubai, Bitunix serves more than 1 million users. Spot trades are charged at 0.10% maker/taker, which aligns with the industry average. Daily futures volume stands at $6.4 billion, much higher than its spot volume ($537.63 million), reflecting a strong focus on derivatives.
One of Bitunix’s strongest features is its no-KYC policy. Users can trade and withdraw up to $500,000 daily without identity verification. Level 1 and 2 KYC raise limits to $2M and $5M respectively. Deposit options include Apple Pay, credit/debit cards, Volet, and local bank transfers in over 20 fiat currencies. The platform also supports bot trading, copy trading, and a “Buy Low Sell High” automation feature.
To learn more about the platform’s trading limits, fiat options, and supported pairs, you can read our full Bitunix review.
What we like about Bitunix:
- Supported Cryptocurrencies: 541+
- Futures Contracts: 400+
- Max Leverage: 125x
- Spot Trading Fees: 0.10% maker / 0.10% taker
- Futures Trading Fees: 0.020% maker / 0.060% taker
- KYC: No KYC
- Deposits & Withdrawals: Supports crypto, bank transfer, Apple Pay, Volet, and more
Bitunix Pros and Cons
| 👍 Pros | 👎 Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ No-KYC with $500K daily withdrawal limit | ❌ Not regulated by major authorities |
| ✅ Up to 125x leverage | ❌ Smaller user base than top exchanges |
| ✅ User friendly | ❌ Not available in China |
| ✅ Easy fiat deposits (card, bank, Apple Pay) | |
| ✅ High liquidity ($6.4B+ daily volume) |
4. Bybit
Bybit ranks high among Russian traders, accounting for 26% of its global web traffic, a share sustained year-over-year, making Russians one of its largest user groups. The platform supports over 726+ cryptocurrencies in spot markets and 578+ perpetual contracts, with leverage up to 100x. Spot trades carry a 0.10% maker/taker fee, and futures trades are priced at 0.020% maker / 0.055% taker. Futures volume averages $15.25 billion daily, reflecting strong liquidity.
Bybit offers advanced trading tools including grid, martingale, combo, DCA, and copy-trade bots. It also supports demo trading, staking, and options trading, features valued by experienced users. Fiat deposits are accepted via credit/debit cards, Apple/Google Pay, SEPA, SWIFT, MoonPay, Banxa, and regional rails like UK’s Faster Payments Service and Poland’s BLIK. Fiat withdrawals are supported through SEPA, Zen.com, and FPS.
KYC is mandatory before any trading or withdrawal. Tiered verification allows daily withdrawal up to $1 m without deposits, $2 m with Level 2, and further increases at higher levels.
If you want more on Bybit’s security practices, tools, and fee tiers, read our full Bybit review.
What we like about Bybit:
- Supported Cryptocurrencies: 726+
- Futures Contracts: 578+
- Max Leverage: 100x
- Spot Trading Fees: 0.10% maker / 0.10% taker
- Futures Trading Fees: 0.020% maker / 0.055% taker
- KYC: KYC Required
- Deposits & Withdrawals: Crypto, USD/EUR/GBP via cards, SEPA, SWIFT, regional fiat rails
Bybit Pros and Cons
| 👍 Bybit Pros | 👎 Bybit Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ MiCAR-compliant platform | ❌ KYC is mandatory |
| ✅ SEPA support for EUR deposits | ❌ Not available in the US, UK, and other major countries |
| ✅ Tier-1 liquidity and deep futures markets | |
| ✅ Supports copy trading, demo mode, and multiple bots (Grid, DCA, Martingale, etc.) | |
| ✅ Fiat onramps via cards, MoonPay, BTCDirect, and more |
5. KuCoin
KuCoin is a strong option for Russian users who prefer wide token access and P2P trading with local currency. The exchange supports over 987+ cryptocurrencies and 410+ futures contracts, offering exposure to a broad altcoin selection. Futures leverage goes up to 125x, and spot trading fees are fixed at 0.10% maker and taker. Futures fees are 0.020% for makers and 0.060% for takers.
KuCoin offers RUB/BTC and RUB/ETH P2P trading, allowing Russians to buy crypto with rubles using escrow-protected trades. Although the exchange has scaled down some services in high-risk regions, ruble-based trading remains accessible. The platform also includes bot trading tools like Grid, DCA, and Rebalance strategies. Copy trading and staking are supported as well.
In July 2025, KuCoin passed its 32nd independent proof-of-reserves audit by Hacken, with all major holdings (BTC, ETH, USDT, USDC) showing reserve ratios above 110%. This reinforces confidence among users seeking reliable custody. However, full KYC is required to trade or withdraw, and the platform has a history of past security breaches. Withdrawals may occasionally face delays.
If you want a detailed look at KuCoin’s audit record, supported features, or fiat gateways, read our full KuCoin review.
What we like about KuCoin:
- Supported Cryptocurrencies: 987+
- Futures Contracts: 410+
- Max Leverage: 125x
- Spot Trading Fees: 0.10% maker / 0.10% taker
- Futures Trading Fees: 0.020% maker / 0.060% taker
- KYC: KYC required
- Deposits & Withdrawals: Crypto, SEPA, Volet, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and more
KuCoin Pros and Cons
| 👍 Pros | 👎 Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Supports 987+ cryptocurrencies, including many niche tokens | ❌ Not licensed in major jurisdictions like the U.S., UK, EU, and Singapore |
| ✅ Offers spot, futures, margin, P2P, and lending | ❌ Fiat access is limited to third-party providers with varying fees |
| ✅ User-friendly design | ❌ Customer support can be slow during peak times |
| ✅ High liquidity in altcoin markets | |
| ✅ Staking, savings, and KuCoin Earn available | |
| ✅ Includes trading bots, copy trading, and a mobile app |
6. OKX
OKX is a major global exchange with deep liquidity and advanced trading features, suitable for experienced Russian users looking for high-volume derivatives markets. The platform supports over 349+ cryptocurrencies and 290+ futures contracts, with leverage up to 125x. Spot trading fees are 0.08% maker / 0.10% taker, while futures fees are 0.020% maker / 0.050% taker.
Daily futures volume averages $14.81 billion, making OKX one of the most liquid venues for leveraged trading. Traders can access a range of tools including options trading, copy trading, staking, and demo mode for strategy testing.
In July 2025, OKX was among the first exchanges to report on the launch of RUBx; a Russia-issued stablecoin built on the TRON blockchain. The token is aimed at cross-border trade and settlements, and reflects an emerging trend of state-linked crypto instruments in sanctioned markets.
OKX enforces KYC for all users. Trading is not available without verification. The platform is also restricted in several jurisdictions including Canada, India, and parts of Ukraine.
If you’re interested in OKX’s supported tools, leverage structure, or token coverage, you can read our full OKX review.
What we like about OKX:
- Supported Cryptocurrencies: 317+
- Futures Contracts: 290+
- Leverage: 125x
- Spot Trading Fees: 0.08% maker / 0.10% taker
- Futures Trading Fees: 0.020% maker / 0.050% taker
- KYC & Limits: KYC required; daily withdrawal up to $10 million
- Deposits & Withdrawals: Crypto, SEPA, bank transfer, credit/debit cards, ZEN
OKX Pros and Cons
| 👍 Pros | 👎 Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Low trading fees with 0.08% (maker) and 0.1% (taker) | ❌ Slow customer support, causing delays in addressing issues |
| ✅ Supports convenient payment options, including local payment methods | ❌ Low liquidity for certain currencies |
| ✅ Supports spot and derivatives markets | |
| ✅ Extensive interest-generating products | |
| ✅ Most trades are at 0.10% or less | |
| ✅ Supports high-interest staking |
Is Crypto Legal in Russia?
Yes, cryptocurrency trading is legal in Russia. Under the 2020 Digital Financial Assets law, digital assets are treated as property. While using crypto for payments is still prohibited, individuals can legally buy, sell, and hold cryptocurrencies.
The Central Bank of Russia does not license foreign exchanges, but many global platforms remain accessible to Russian users. These include options that offer ruble deposits, high liquidity, and basic compliance with international standards.
How to Buy Bitcoin & Crypto in Russia
If you’re based in Russia and want to buy Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies, start by choosing a crypto exchange Russia still allows access to. The process is simple but depends on the platform’s features and payment support.
Start by selecting a reliable exchange that supports RUB deposits. Some platforms support funding through methods like Sberbank transfers, SBP (Fast Payment System), or third-party services like Banxa or Mercuryo. After creating an account, complete identity verification if required, and then deposit funds in rubles.
Once you’ve made your purchase, consider transferring your crypto to a private wallet. Keeping assets on an exchange for long periods increases security risks. From there, you can monitor prices and manage your assets based on your own risk plan.
Bottom Line
If you’re trading crypto in Russia today, the landscape is still open, but not without caution. You have access to major platforms, deep liquidity, and increasingly advanced tools. But access doesn’t mean safety by default. Choosing a crypto exchange in Russia isn’t just about fees or coin listings, it’s about verifying withdrawals, understanding limits, and knowing where your assets are stored.
Take your time to review the platforms covered above. Every trader has different priorities, whether it’s high leverage, ruble deposits, or no-KYC flexibility. What matters is that you pick an exchange that works for your situation now, and can adapt as the rules change.
FAQs
1. Is it legal to trade crypto in Russia?
Yes, trading crypto is legal. Under the 2020 Digital Financial Assets (DFA) law, individuals in Russia can legally buy, sell, and hold cryptocurrencies. However, using crypto for everyday payments remains prohibited.
2. Can I buy crypto with Russian rubles?
Yes, several exchanges still support RUB through card-to-card P2P trades, SBP (Fast Payment System), or third-party gateways like Banxa, Transak, and Mercuryo. Availability depends on the platform and the region you’re accessing it from.
3. Do I need KYC to trade crypto in Russia?
Some exchanges allow limited trading and withdrawals without KYC, but most require identity verification for full access. If you’re planning to deposit fiat, KYC is almost always required.
4. Which exchanges support Russian users in 2025?
Many major platforms remain accessible, including those that offer multi-currency support, proof-of-reserves, and flexible trading options. Access can change based on sanctions, so it’s important to check terms before signing up.
5. What is RUBx and why does it matter?
RUBx is a Russia-issued stablecoin launched on the TRON network for cross-border trade and settlement. While it’s not yet available on all platforms, it signals a growing push toward blockchain-based financial instruments in sanctioned markets.
