Is Bybit legal in Canada?

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Is Bybit legal in Canada?

No, Bybit is no longer accessible in Canada . Since July 31, 2023, the platform has suspended all of its services for Canadian users , citing an overly restrictive regulatory framework. This decision is part of a wave of exchange withdrawals from the Canadian market, such as Binance and dYdX , following the implementation of new regulations in February 2023.

If you're looking for a platform that complies with Canadian regulations , several alternatives are available. This article explores the reasons for Bybit's departure , the implications for Canadian traders, and the best legal alternatives to use in Canada.

Table of contents

Why did Bybit withdraw from Canada?

A stricter regulatory framework since 2023

In February 2023, Canadian authorities introduced new regulations for cryptocurrency companies. These measures, implemented by regulatory bodies such as the Canadian Securities Commission (CSC) and the Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC) , include:

  • A mandatory registration process for crypto platforms operating in the territory.
  • Restrictions on derivatives and leverage , reducing access to futures and options contracts.
  • Increased requirements for consumer protection , including the obligation for exchanges to have a more rigorous custody structure.

These rules have forced several international exchanges to leave Canada, considering that they made operating their business too complex or economically unviable .

 Bybit facing Canadian demands

Bybit has always sought to comply with local regulations, but new Canadian constraints have forced it to make a radical decision. In an official statement , the company said:

"Bybit's primary objective has always been to operate our business in compliance with all relevant rules and regulations in Canada. In light of recent regulatory developments, Bybit has made the difficult but necessary decision to suspend the availability of our products and services."

Bybit is not only unavailable in Canada, it is also unavailable in the United Kingdom and France ,  for example.

As of July 31, 2023 , Canadian users were no longer able to make deposits or open new positions . They had until September 30, 2023 , to close their existing positions, under penalty of forced liquidation .

The consequences of Bybit's withdrawal for Canadian traders

Impact on Bybit users in Canada

Bybit's departure from Canada means that residents of the country can no longer:

  • Create a new account on the platform.
  • Make deposits in cryptocurrencies or fiat currency.
  • leveraged or derivatives trading services.
  • Take advantage of staking and other DeFi offered by Bybit.

However, withdrawals remain possible , allowing Canadian users to retrieve their funds and transfer them to another legal platform.

Can VPNs allow access to Bybit?

Technically, some traders use VPNs to bypass geographical restrictions. However, this violates Bybit's terms of service , and the exchange could suspend or freeze an account detected as being located in Canada .

Furthermore, in the event of a dispute or technical problem, you will not benefit from any protection from Canadian regulators, which may expose your funds to significant risks.

In which countries is Bybit accepted?

Bybit is available in over 160 countries , but some jurisdictions impose strict restrictions. Among the territories where the platform is restricted are the United States, China, Singapore, the United Kingdom, and France , due to stringent regulatory frameworks or sanctions. Other regions, such as Crimea, Donetsk, and Luhansk , are also off-limits for geopolitical reasons.

Bybit is legal in Canada
source: https://www.bybit.com/en/help-center/article/Service-Restricted-Countries

Towards regulation beyond Europe for Bybit

In parallel, Bybit is working to acquire additional licenses, particularly in Hong Kong , a major hub for crypto-assets in Asia. These efforts aim to strengthen user protection and ensure the platform's compliance with local regulations.

Bybit's licenses and regulations

Bybit has already obtained several regulatory approvals allowing it to legally offer its services in various international markets. Among the most notable are:

  • Kazakhstan : Registration with the Astana Financial Services Authority (AFSA) , which allows Bybit to operate as a regulated digital asset trading custody and investment management services .
  • Cyprus : Approval to provide crypto-asset trading and custody services , in compliance with European regulatory standards.
  • Georgia : Registered as a Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) with the National Bank of Georgia , ensuring compliance with local regulations.
  • Dubai : Obtained a provisional license from the Virtual Asset Regulatory Authority (VARA) , a key step towards full authorization to serve retail and institutional investors.

Thanks to these regulatory approvals , Bybit continues to expand its presence in different markets while respecting local legal requirements.

What are the legal alternatives to Bybit in Canada?

With Bybit now inaccessible in Canada , it is essential to turn to platforms that comply with local regulations .

You can invest in cryptocurrencies in Canada with Gemini.

The platform offers:

  • Top-notch security, with “cold” storage of the majority of funds
  • A dual interface: a simplified application for beginners and ActiveTrader , an advanced platform offering decreasing fees according to volume and a competitive order book.
  • Access to more than 60 cryptocurrencies, as well as a rare offering on the market: tokenized stocks (Nvidia, Apple, etc.). These products replicate the price of real stocks via tokens issued directly on the Gemini platform, allowing them to be purchased and traded 24/7 like cryptocurrencies, without going through a traditional stock broker.
  • Strict regulatory compliance, with Gemini being one of the first platforms approved in the United States and holding the European license ( MiCA ).
  • Additional services such as staking to generate returns on these cryptocurrencies.

Gemini therefore allows you to invest in both cryptocurrencies and tokenized stocks, all in a secure and regulated environment.

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Conclusion: Is Bybit legal in Canada?

By 2025 , Bybit will no longer be legal in Canada due to regulatory restrictions. If you are a Canadian trader , it is essential to find alternatives that comply with local requirements.

The three best options are:
Coinbase – A global, intuitive, and compliant platform.
Coinsquare – A secure and regulated Canadian exchange.
Netcoins – A reliable alternative with a simplified interface.

If you wish to continue trading legally and securely in Canada, use these platforms rather than attempting to access Bybit through unofficial channels. Your financial security is paramount.

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