Where Is Bitpanda Available? Supported and Restricted Countries Explained

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Cryptocurrency enthusiasts around the world are increasingly seeking reliable, regulated platforms to buy, sell, and manage digital assets. One such platform is Bitpanda, a European-based exchange that has gained popularity for its compliance with financial regulations and user-friendly interface. But a common question remains: Where exactly can you use Bitpanda? And which countries face restrictions?

This article breaks down Bitpanda’s global availability, regulatory framework, and service limitations—particularly around staking—while addressing key concerns for international users.

Where Is Bitpanda Available?

Bitpanda currently serves customers in over 80 countries, with a strong focus on the European Economic Area (EEA). The EEA includes all 27 European Union (EU) member states plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway. This regional emphasis is due to Bitpanda’s regulatory structure and licensing, which are primarily aligned with EU financial standards.

Countries where Bitpanda is officially supported include:

Outside of Europe, Bitpanda also supports users from several non-EEA nations, such as:

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These international users benefit from the same core services—including cryptocurrency trading, stock tokens, and metal trading—though certain advanced features may vary by jurisdiction due to local laws.

Identity Verification Requirements

To comply with Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) regulations, Bitpanda requires all users to complete identity verification. Most users must upload a valid passport. However, citizens of certain countries—such as Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, and other EU nations—can verify their identity using a government-issued national ID card.

This streamlined process enhances security while reducing friction for users within compliant regions.

Which Countries Are Restricted on Bitpanda?

Bitpanda does not publish an official list of banned or restricted countries. However, based on user reports and regulatory patterns, it's clear that access is generally limited outside the EEA and select allied nations.

Typically restricted regions include:

These restrictions stem from international sanctions, financial regulations, or local crypto prohibitions enforced by bodies like the European Union, OFAC (U.S. Treasury), or FATF (Financial Action Task Force).

For example, U.S. residents cannot use Bitpanda due to stringent securities laws and the platform’s lack of necessary U.S.-based licenses. Similarly, countries under economic sanctions are blocked to prevent illicit financial activity.

While some users may attempt to bypass these restrictions using virtual private networks (VPNs), doing so violates Bitpanda’s terms of service and could result in account suspension or fund freezing.

Regulatory Framework: Why Bitpanda Operates Where It Does

Bitpanda’s operational footprint is directly tied to its robust regulatory credentials. Unlike many decentralized or offshore exchanges, Bitpanda holds multiple European licenses that allow it to offer financial services legally across borders.

Key Licenses and Authorizations

  1. MiFID II (Markets in Financial Instruments Directive II)
    This EU-wide license permits Bitpanda to offer investment services such as trading of stock tokens, ETFs, and derivatives. Because MiFID II is recognized across the EEA, Bitpanda doesn’t need separate licenses in each country it operates in.
  2. PSD2 (Revised Payment Services Directive)
    Under PSD2, Bitpanda can process payments securely within Europe. This ensures smooth deposits and withdrawals via bank transfers and other regulated payment methods.
  3. Electronic Money Institution (EMI) License – Austria
    Registered with Austria’s Financial Market Authority (FMA), this license allows Bitpanda to issue electronic money and manage digital wallets—critical for handling fiat currencies like EUR, USD, and GBP.

These combined authorizations make Bitpanda one of the most compliant crypto platforms in Europe, enhancing trust among users and institutions alike.

Where Is Staking Available on Bitpanda?

Staking—earning rewards by locking up crypto assets—is a popular feature on many exchanges. However, Bitpanda offers staking only to users residing in EEA countries.

This limitation exists because staking models often fall into gray areas under securities law. Regulators in non-EEA countries may classify staking rewards as investment income or unregistered financial products, requiring additional compliance steps.

As a result, even if you're in a supported country like Canada or Australia, you may not have access to staking unless you’re physically located within the EEA and verified accordingly.

That said, Bitpanda has expressed intentions to expand staking access globally as regulatory clarity improves—especially in markets adopting clearer crypto frameworks.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

✅ Is Bitpanda available in the United States?

No, Bitpanda is not available to U.S. residents. Due to strict U.S. financial regulations and licensing requirements, the platform does not support users from any state within the United States.

✅ Can I use Bitpanda with a VPN?

Using a VPN to access Bitpanda from a restricted country violates their terms of service. Accounts found using this method may be suspended or permanently banned.

✅ Does Bitpanda support ID verification for non-EU citizens?

Yes, but only passports are accepted for non-EU residents. National ID cards are valid only for citizens of specific European countries.

✅ Why isn’t my country listed on Bitpanda?

If your country isn’t supported, it’s likely due to regulatory conflicts, sanctions, or lack of local licensing infrastructure. Bitpanda prioritizes compliance over expansion speed.

✅ Are there plans to expand to more countries?

Yes. Bitpanda has indicated ongoing efforts to enter new markets, especially those with emerging crypto regulations. Expansion will depend on securing local approvals and adapting to regional laws.

✅ Is my money safe on Bitpanda?

Bitpanda employs bank-level security, cold storage for crypto assets, and full regulatory oversight through its Austrian EMI and MiFID II licenses. While no platform is 100% risk-free, Bitpanda ranks among the more secure options in Europe.

Final Thoughts

Bitpanda stands out as a regulated, secure, and user-focused cryptocurrency exchange serving over 80 countries—with a natural stronghold in the European Economic Area. Its adherence to EU financial directives like MiFID II, PSD2, and its status as an Electronic Money Institution ensure high standards of transparency and protection.

While access remains limited outside Europe—especially in sanctioned or heavily regulated regions—the platform continues to grow responsibly. Features like staking are currently EEA-exclusive but may expand as global crypto regulation evolves.

Whether you're in Germany, Canada, or Australia, understanding Bitpanda’s geographic eligibility helps you make informed decisions about where and how to invest in digital assets.

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