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Is Gate.io accessible in the Netherlands?
If you're wondering whether Gate.io is accessible in the Netherlands, the answer is no. The platform is among the cryptocurrency exchanges restricted in that country due to regulations imposed by the Dutch financial authorities. Nevertheless, some users attempt to circumvent this restriction using solutions like VPNs. Why is Gate.io blocked in the Netherlands? What are the risks, and what alternatives exist? Let's explore this together.
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Why is Gate.io banned in the Netherlands?
Gate.io, founded in China in 2013 and now based in several jurisdictions, offers over 3,700 digital assets in spot, futures, and other derivatives. However, to operate legally in the Netherlands, platforms must register with the Dutch Central Bank (De Nederlandsche Bank, DNB) as providers of virtual asset services.
This procedure aims to ensure compliance with local regulations, particularly those concerning anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing. As Gate.io has not obtained this registration, access to its services is restricted for Dutch residents.
Netherlands regulations on cryptocurrencies
Since November 21, 2020, the Netherlands has required all cryptocurrency exchanges and digital wallet providers to register with the DNB (Netherlands Bank for Enterprises). This measure aims to increase transparency and prevent illicit activities related to cryptocurrencies. The requirements include:
Customer identification ( KYC ) : Platforms must verify the identity of their users to prevent fraudulent activities.
Transaction monitoring : Detecting and reporting suspicious transactions is mandatory to comply with anti-money laundering regulations.
System security : Platforms must guarantee the protection of customer data and assets against cyber threats.
Although Gate.io has implemented compliance measures in other jurisdictions, it has not met the specific requirements of the Netherlands, which explains its unavailability in the country.
Gate.io is available in countries other than the Netherlands
Gate.io is accessible in over 165 countries worldwide. However, some jurisdictions restrict or prohibit its use due to their own regulations. Here is a non-exhaustive list of countries where access to Gate.io is restricted:
Europe : France, Germany, United Kingdom, Netherlands, Spain, Malta.
North America : United States, Canada.
Asia : Mainland China, Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, Japan, Indonesia, India.
Middle East : Iran, Syria.
Latin America : Argentina, Bolivia, Venezuela.
Africa : Sudan.
It is essential to regularly consult the terms of use of Gate.io, as the list of restricted countries may change depending on regulatory changes.
Gate.io's regulatory licenses
Gate.io holds several regulatory licenses obtained in different jurisdictions, allowing it to legally operate in those specific regions. These authorizations are essential for offering cryptocurrency-related services to the relevant residents. However, these licenses do not guarantee global recognition, as each country applies its own regulations regarding digital assets. Thus, being authorized in one jurisdiction does not necessarily mean that the platform can operate in other territories.
Here are some of the main licenses obtained by Gate.io:
- MFSA (Malta) : Category 4 license for virtual asset financial services, allowing the provision of digital asset exchange and custody services in Malta.
- AUSTRAC (Australia) : Registered as a digital currency exchange service provider, ensuring compliance with anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing regulations in Australia.
- SCB (Bahamas) : License issued by the Bahamas Securities Commission, authorizing Gate.io to provide crypto-asset trading
- OAM (Italy) : Registration as a digital asset service provider, allowing Gate.io to operate legally in the Italian market.
- DMCC (Dubai) : License granted by the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre, offering the possibility to conduct cryptocurrency trading activities in the United Arab Emirates.
Is it possible to bypass the Gate.io restriction in the Netherlands?
Although we don't recommend it, some users in the Netherlands use VPNs (virtual private networks) to access Gate.io. A VPN masks your IP address and simulates a connection from another country where Gate.io is accessible. Here's how some do it:
Choosing a reliable VPN : Opt for reputable services such as NordVPN, ExpressVPN or ProtonVPN.
Connect to a server in an authorized country : Select a server located in a region where access to Gate.io is permitted.
Accessing Gate.io : Once connected to the VPN, go to the Gate.io website.
Risks : Using a VPN to bypass geographical restrictions may violate Gate.io's terms of service. The platform may detect VPN use and block or suspend your account. Furthermore, this may expose you to legal risks depending on local laws.
Is Gate.io worth it?
Gate.io stands out as one of the platforms offering the widest selection of crypto assets, with a variety of features tailored to experienced traders. Among its key strengths are:
✔ An extensive selection of over 3,600 cryptocurrencies, including less common LTCs ltc ✔
Advanced trading with futures, margin trading, and leverage.
✔ NFT marketplace for buying, selling, and trading digital assets.
✔ Automated strategies through copy trading and trading bots.
✔ Passive income options including staking , yield farming, and lending.
However, despite these numerous advantages, Gate.io also has some notable drawbacks:
✖ Lack of regulation in Europe , which limits its access in several countries.
✖ Customer service is often criticized , particularly for its lack of responsiveness.
✖ A complex interface , which can be difficult for beginners to use.
Thus, although Gate.io offers an impressive range of services, its lack of a regulatory framework in Europe and certain aspects related to user experience must be taken into account.
Gate.io Alternatives in France
Since Gate.io is not accessible in France due to the lack of a Digital Asset Service Provider (DASP) license, several regulated platforms allow French residents to legally trade cryptocurrencies. Here are some reliable alternatives:
Alternatives to Gate.io in the Netherlands
For Dutch residents wishing to trade cryptocurrencies legally, several regulated platforms are available:
You can invest in cryptocurrencies in the Netherlands with Gemini.
The platform offers:
- Top-tier security, with "cold" storage of the majority of funds
- A dual interface: a simplified application for beginners and ActiveTrader , an advanced platform offering volume-dependent fees and a competitive order book.
- Access to over 60 cryptocurrencies, but also to a rare offering on the market: tokenized shares (Nvidia, Apple, etc.). These products replicate the price of real shares via tokens issued directly on the Gemini platform, allowing them to be bought and traded 24/7 like cryptocurrencies, without going through a traditional stockbroker.
- 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 shares, all within a secure and regulated environment.
If you're unsure how to proceed, we've created a free, ultra-detailed step-by-step guide with screenshots. To receive it, fill out the form below:
What you will learn:
✔ Buying your first cryptocurrencies – A detailed tutorial to get started on a centralized exchange platform.
✔ Securing your transactions – Best practices for buying, selling, and trading cryptocurrencies while minimizing risk.
✔ Understanding stablecoins stablecoin Their usefulness, differences, and how to use them to stabilize your funds during periods of volatility.
✔ Mastering a decentralized wallet ( DeFi ) – Learn how to manage your assets without intermediaries and interact directly with the blockchain.
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Cryptocurrency investments are risky. Crypternon cannot be held liable, directly or indirectly, for any damage or loss resulting from the use of any product or service mentioned in this article. Readers should conduct their own research before taking any action and only invest within their financial means. Past performance is not indicative of future results. This article does not constitute investment advice.
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AMF recommendations. There is no guaranteed high yield, a product with high performance potential implies a high risk. This risk taking must be in line with your project, your investment horizon and your ability to lose part of this savings. Do not invest if you are not ready to lose all or part of your capital .
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Yoann
Training engineer, I quickly became interested in the field of finance. Convinced that decentralized finance has a bright future ahead of it, I participate in its democratization by developing Crypternon.
