Bybit is a globally recognized crypto exchange with over 15 million users around the world. They are available in 160+ countries, but some regions like the US and Canada are restricted due to regulatory factors. If Bybit is unavailable in your region, they also have a decentralized exchange platform called ApeX, which you might want to check out instead.
Restricted and Banned Countries
Excluded regions as of Sep, 2023. Source: Bybit
Bybit is available in most countries around the world, but has restricted the United States, Canada, and other regions from using its platform due to international regulations. According to section 12.3 of Bybit's terms of service, the following countries are prohibited from using Bybit:
If you reside in any of these regions, you will not be able to open a Bybit account unless your ID proves that you live elsewhere.
Does Bybit Need KYC?
Yes. For a long time, Bybit allowed anyone around the world to use their platform without requiring KYC. However, as of May 8, 2023, they have introduced a mandatory KYC policy. This means that all users must prove their identity in order to open an account. For alternatives, you can see my updated list of crypto exchanges without KYC here.
Can You Use A VPN?
Using a VPN to change your location will not work on Bybit because they introduced a mandatory KYC policy in 2023. All users must verify their identity in order to deposit and trade on the platform, meaning a VPN can't bypass this.
Bybit Has A DEX
The team at Bybit created a second platform called ApeX, which is a decentralized crypto exchange for derivatives traders, allowing you to go long or short on 15 tokens with up to 30x leverage. While it has less coins and features than the centralized platform, ApeX only requires a crypto wallet, making it accessible to anyone around the world.
Bybit Alternatives
If you can't use Bybit because you live in an excluded jurisdiction, there are still many great alternatives. You first might want to check out ApeX Protocol, which is Bybit's decentralized exchange platform. Top centralized exchanges with similar features include OKX, Binance, and MEXC:
