Is OKX allowed in the UK?

OKX operates under temporary FCA registration in the UK, allowing existing users to withdraw funds but prohibiting new account sign-ups and certain services.

Jul 18, 2025 at 06:36 pm

Regulatory Framework for Cryptocurrency in the UK

The UK government has established a comprehensive regulatory framework to oversee cryptocurrency-related activities. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) is the primary regulatory body responsible for monitoring and enforcing compliance within the crypto industry. In recent years, the FCA has taken a cautious but increasingly structured approach to regulating digital assets, focusing on consumer protection, anti-money laundering (AML), and counter-terrorist financing (CTF) measures.

Under the current regulations, any cryptocurrency exchange or platform operating within the UK must comply with the Money Laundering, Terrorist Financing and Transfer of Funds (Information on the Payer) Regulations 2017, which were updated to include crypto asset businesses. OKX, as a global cryptocurrency exchange, must meet these requirements to legally operate or serve UK-based users.

Important Note:

Exchanges that fail to register with the FCA are prohibited from offering services to UK residents.

OKX's Status and Registration with the FCA

OKX has been actively working to align its operations with various global regulatory standards. As part of this effort, the platform submitted an application to the FCA for registration under the UK’s AML and CTF regulations. However, the FCA has not granted full approval to OKX as of the latest available updates.

Instead of a full license, the FCA has placed OKX under temporary registration, which allows the exchange to continue operating while it undergoes a more detailed review. This temporary registration does not equate to official approval, and users should be cautious about the implications of engaging with platforms in this status.

Key Detail:

OKX cannot legally onboard new UK customers while under temporary registration.

Restrictions Imposed on OKX by the FCA

To ensure compliance with local laws, the FCA has imposed specific restrictions on OKX’s operations within the UK. These include:

• • Prohibiting the platform from acquiring new UK-based users
  • Restricting the marketing and promotion of OKX services to UK audiences
  • Requiring existing UK users to adhere to specific withdrawal and account closure procedures

These restrictions are part of the FCA’s broader effort to prevent unregulated crypto exchanges from operating freely within the UK financial ecosystem. OKX users in the UK are advised to review their account status and consider transferring funds to FCA-authorized platforms.

Important Reminder:

UK users should verify the regulatory status of any crypto exchange before depositing funds.

How UK Residents Can Use OKX

Despite the FCA’s restrictions, some UK residents may still access OKX through international versions of the platform or via virtual private networks (VPNs). However, doing so can pose legal and financial risks, as the FCA has explicitly warned against using unregulated platforms.

For those who already have accounts on OKX, the FCA allows limited activity:

• • Users can withdraw their funds and crypto assets
  • Trading and deposits are restricted or blocked for new UK accounts
  • Account verification and KYC procedures may be required to complete withdrawals

Critical Advice:

UK users should not attempt to circumvent FCA restrictions, as this may lead to loss of funds or legal consequences.

Alternatives to OKX in the UK

For UK-based crypto investors, it is highly advisable to switch to FCA-authorized exchanges. Some of the most trusted and compliant platforms include:

• • BCB Group – A licensed institutional crypto platform
  • Coinbase UK – One of the most well-known and regulated exchanges
  • KuCoin UK – Operates under FCA compliance for certain services
  • Bitstamp – A long-standing exchange with a strong compliance record

These platforms are subject to regular audits and must adhere to strict AML and consumer protection standards. Using FCA-regulated exchanges ensures better protection of user funds and personal data.

Essential Tip:

Always verify the FCA registration status of a crypto exchange before using it.

FAQs

Q: Can I still use OKX if I’m a UK resident with an existing account?

A: Yes, you can access your existing OKX account to withdraw funds, but you cannot make new deposits or open new positions.

Q: Is OKX planning to get full FCA approval?

A: There is no public confirmation from OKX regarding full FCA approval, but the exchange is reportedly working on meeting regulatory requirements.

Q: What should I do if I accidentally registered with OKX after the FCA restrictions?

A: You should contact OKX support and follow their guidance to close your account or transfer your assets to a compliant platform.

Q: Are there any penalties for UK users who continue using OKX after the FCA restrictions?

A: While individual users are not typically penalized, using unregulated platforms increases the risk of fraud, fund loss, and lack of legal recourse.