BitMEX is widely recognized as the pioneer of crypto perpetual swaps, a product that shaped how derivatives trading works today. Despite its influence, the platform isn’t accessible everywhere, mainly because of regional regulatory rules.
This guide breaks down BitMEX restricted and supported countries for 2025 so you can quickly understand your region’s status. It also covers practical questions users usually have, including whether VPNs help and what alternatives make sense if the exchange isn’t available to you.
🌍 Free BitMEX Country Checker
We strive to keep this information up-to-date, but regulations may change. While we regularly update this data, we make no guarantees, and it is your responsibility to verify whether your country is supported before using the platform.
Due to regulations, BitMEX does not support every country. To ensure that you are eligible to register on the exchange, you can use our free BitMEX country checker.
Simply type in your country and see if you can use the platform or if your country is restricted.
BitMEX Restricted & Banned Countries
Due to ongoing regulatory requirements, BitMEX restricts service in a number of regions. The platform makes this clear in BitMEX’s Restricted Jurisdiction Policy, which lists the following banned locations:
- United States
- Cuba
- Iran
- North Korea
- Crimea
- Sevastopol
- Donetsk People’s Republic
- Luhansk People’s Republic
- Kherson Oblast
- Zaporizhzhia Oblast
- Seychelles
- Bermuda
- Hong Kong SAR
- Canada
- Myanmar
- Russia
Which Countries Are Supported by BitMEX?
BitMEX supports traders in well over 100 countries, making it accessible to users across most of Europe, South America, Africa, the Middle East, and large parts of Asia and Oceania. In these regions, users can open an account and access the platform’s full derivatives offering without any location-based limitations.
Only a small number of jurisdictions fall under regulatory restrictions. If you’re unsure whether your country is supported, it’s best to confirm your region’s status by checking the restricted list above before signing up.
Does BitMEX Require KYC?
BitMEX requires mandatory KYC for all users. You must complete identity verification to access trading features, regardless of which country you’re in.
Can Users in Restricted Areas Use BitMEX with a VPN?
Some users think a VPN can solve access issues when BitMEX is unavailable in their region. A VPN may load the website, but using it to trade on a restricted platform is not advised. It can conflict with local laws and violate the exchange’s own terms. The safer approach is to use platforms that are legally accessible in your country. If you need similar features, you can explore our list of top exchanges for leverage trading.
Is BitMEX Available In the US?
No, BitMEX is not available in the United States. Because of strict regulatory rules, the platform blocks all U.S. residents and anyone accessing the service from within the country. This means users cannot register, trade, or use any part of BitMEX while in the U.S., even temporarily. The exchange’s policy clearly lists the United States as a restricted region, and trying to access the platform through a VPN or inaccurate information goes against its terms and can result in account issues.
If you are based in the U.S. or visiting the country, BTCC is a reliable alternative for derivatives trading. For more options, you can also review our handpicked list of top U.S. exchanges to find platforms that operate legally and offer similar features.
BitMEX Alternatives
If BitMEX is restricted in your country, you still have solid options that offer a similar trading experience. For users in the United States, BYDFi is one of the strongest alternatives. It is licensed, accessible across most states, and provides an interface that feels familiar to anyone used to major derivatives platforms.
For users outside the U.S., BTCC is a practical alternative worth exploring. It has been growing quickly and is known for its straightforward trading layout, strong liquidity, and focus on derivatives. Many traders prefer it when they want something reliable without unnecessary complications.
Bottom Line
BitMEX’s availability depends on regional rules, so your experience may differ based on where you live. If the platform supports your location, our detailed BitMEX review will help you understand its tools, markets, and security.
If your region is restricted, you can still trade confidently by visiting our guide on the best exchanges with high leverage, where we list down platforms offering the highest leverage on crypto derivatives market.
FAQs
1. Why is BitMEX restricted in some countries?
BitMEX follows global regulatory requirements, and certain jurisdictions have rules that prevent the exchange from offering services there. These restrictions are based on local laws rather than BitMEX’s internal policies.
2. Can I create a BitMEX account if my country is supported?
Yes, users in supported regions can register normally, but they must complete full KYC verification before accessing any trading features.
3. Does BitMEX allow trading without verification?
No. BitMEX requires identity verification for all accounts, and unverified trading is not permitted on the platform.