OKX Restricted Countries List 2025 – Regions & Alternatives

Which Countries Does OKX Restrict?

OKX restricts access in several countries due to regulatory requirements outlined in its Risk & Compliance Disclosure (Section 3). As of 2025, users from the following countries are prohibited from accessing OKX services:

• North America: United States (including all territories), Canada
• Europe: France (and overseas territories), Crimea, Donetsk, Luhansk
• Asia-Pacific: Japan, India, Malaysia, Nepal, Uzbekistan
• Middle East & Africa: Iran, Syria, Afghanistan, Algeria, Bangladesh, Nigeria
• Latin America: Cuba, El Salvador, Bolivia
• Other Regions: Hong Kong (limited services), American Samoa, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands

Regulatory policies change frequently. Always check OKX’s official updates for the latest restrictions.

Countries Supported by OKX 

OKX currently provides cryptocurrency trading and investment services to more than 100 countries globally. While the platform doesn't publish an official comprehensive list, major supported countries confirmed by OKX include:

• Asia: China, Russia, Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand
• Europe: Germany, Spain, Italy, Netherlands, Portugal, Switzerland and all 28 EEA nations
• Middle East: UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Israel
• Africa: South Africa, Egypt, Kenya
• Oceania: Australia (spot trading only), New Zealand
• Latin America: Mexico, Argentina, Brazil (spot trading only), Colombia, Chile

Users should verify local regulations and confirm OKX availability directly through the platform’s support page.

OKX Derivatives Trading Restrictions

While OKX is available in many countries, certain features are restricted based on local regulations.

In Australia, Brazil, South Korea, and the United Kingdom, users can access spot trading and other platform services. However, derivatives trading, including futures and perpetual contracts, is prohibited.

These restrictions are imposed due to regulatory requirements in each country. Users in these regions should check local guidelines and consider alternative derivatives exchanges for trading.

Does OKX Require Mandatory KYC Verification?

Yes. OKX has mandatory KYC verification requirements for all users to comply with global anti-money laundering (AML) regulations. Required documentation includes:

• Government-issued Passport
• Driver’s License
• National Identification Card

Detailed instructions for KYC can be found directly on the OKX verification page.

Can You Access OKX with a VPN?

If you have an existing, fully verified OKX account, using a VPN service like NordVPN or Express VPN may allow temporary access while traveling. However, VPN usage does not bypass regional restrictions for new users.

OKX enforces strict KYC (Know Your Customer) verification, requiring proof of identity and residency. Attempting to create a new OKX account with a VPN will not work, as the platform verifies user locations through official documentation and other compliance measures.

Best Alternatives if OKX is Unavailable in Your Country

If OKX is restricted in your area, select a fully licensed crypto exchange compliant with local regulations. Choosing a regulated platform protects your funds and ensures reliable trading.

Popular region-specific alternatives include:

• US, UK, Canada: Kraken (regulated by FinCEN in the US, FCA in the UK, FINTRAC in Canada).
• Singapore: Coinhako or Independent Reserve (MAS licensed).
• European Union: Coinbase and Bitstamp (compliant with MiCA).
• Australia: CoinSpot or Swyftx (regulated by AUSTRAC).

Always confirm local licensing directly before trading.

Bottom Line

Regulatory restrictions on OKX vary by country and can change frequently. If you're trading on the platform, stay updated on compliance requirements and verify access directly through OKX’s official channels. 

For users in restricted regions, consider alternative exchanges that align with local regulations to ensure uninterrupted trading.