As of 2025, Bybit is not available for use in France due to regulatory restrictions imposed by French financial authorities. French residents are advised to seek alternative platforms that comply with local regulations.
- Bybit remains blocked in France, and users cannot trade or deposit funds.
- Despite removal from AMF’s blacklist in February 2025, Bybit hasn’t resumed service.
Regulatory Background
- Unauthorized operations: Since May 20, 2022, France’s financial regulator, the Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF), placed Bybit on its blacklist because it was not registered as a DASP (digital asset service provider), violating French law.
- Warning to users: In May 2024, the AMF reiterated that Bybit remained illegal and warned that authorities could even block its website.
Operational Ban & Exit Timeline
- August 2, 2024: Bybit restricted all French accounts to “Close‑Only” mode, stopping new deposits and trades. French users could no longer open positions.
- August 13, 2024: Any remaining open positions were automatically liquidated; fiat and crypto withdrawals remained allowed.
- January 8, 2025: Bybit halted withdrawal and custody services for French users. Balances above 10 USDC were transferred to Coinhouse, a licensed custodian, while smaller balances were subject to termination fees.
Can You Use Bybit in France?
No. As of July 29, 2025, Bybit is still not usable in France. French residents are restricted from accessing or trading on the platform—even though it is no longer blacklisted, full services have not been restored. Bybit is in the process of applying for a MiCA license, which would enable legal operations across the EU—including France.
Why Regulatory Compliance Matters
- Legal security: Using a locally authorized platform avoids potential legal issues.
- Financial protections: Regulated exchanges often include insurance or user funds protection schemes.
- Market integrity: Properly licensed operators must uphold transparency and anti‑manipulation standards.
In France, any platform like Bybit must comply with AMF’s registration as a DASP and follow anti-money-laundering (AML) and investor protection requirements.
Importance of Regulatory Compliance for Investors and Traders
The availability of cryptocurrency trading platforms like Bybit in specific jurisdictions is crucial for investors and traders. Regulatory compliance ensures that these platforms operate within the legal frameworks set by financial authorities, which is designed to protect investors from potential fraud and market manipulation. This compliance also helps in maintaining the integrity of the financial markets and ensures that only vetted and secure platforms are accessible to the public.
For investors and traders, understanding the regulatory status of platforms like Bybit in their country is essential for several reasons:
- Legal Security: Trading on a platform that is compliant with local regulations reduces the risk of legal repercussions for the user.
- Financial Protection: Regulated platforms are more likely to offer mechanisms for user protection including insurance schemes and user compensation funds.
- Market Integrity: Platforms adhering to regulations are less likely to engage in practices that could manipulate market prices or disadvantage users unfairly.
Real-World Examples and Updated 2025 Insights
As the cryptocurrency landscape continues to evolve, several countries have adjusted their regulatory frameworks to either tighten or relax rules concerning crypto exchanges. For instance, in 2023, the United States implemented the Crypto Asset Regulation Act, which streamlined compliance requirements for exchanges, thereby attracting more operators to the market. Conversely, countries like France have maintained a stringent stance on crypto exchanges to curb speculative trading and enhance investor protection.
In the context of France, the Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF) has set specific guidelines that crypto platforms must adhere to. Bybit, which has not secured approval from AMF, cannot operate legally within France. However, platforms like MEXC, which comply with AMF regulations, continue to serve French users effectively, offering a secure and regulated environment for cryptocurrency trading.
Practical applications of these regulatory frameworks can be seen in the enhanced security features and user verification processes implemented by compliant platforms. For example, MEXC employs rigorous KYC (Know Your Customer) and AML (Anti-Money Laundering) procedures to ensure the safety and legality of transactions, which aligns with French regulations.
MEXC: One of The Best Alternatives in France
Among available exchange options for French users, MEXC stands out as the top choice thanks to:
- Zero trading fees
- Massive selection of coins (2,400+ assets)
- Strong liquidity score
- KYC/AML procedures
MEXC is currently one of the most accessible and cost-efficient platform for French traders in the absence of Bybit.
Conclusion
In conclusion, as of 2025, Bybit is not operable in France due to its non-compliance with French regulatory standards set by the AMF. This situation highlights the broader importance of regulatory compliance for cryptocurrency platforms operating within France. Investors and traders need to be aware of the legal status of such platforms to ensure they engage in crypto trading securely and legally.
FAQ
Why was Bybit blocked in France?
Because it operated without registering as a DASP under French law, leading to legal restrictions and placement on AMF’s blacklist.
When did Bybit get blocked in France?
Service restrictions began on August 2, 2024, followed by full cessation of custody operations by January 8, 2025
Is Bybit available now?
No. As of July 2025, French users still cannot access Bybit. The platform awaits MiCA licensing.
What’s a reliable alternative?
MEXC offers zero fees, high asset diversity, and compliance with EU standards—making it the best replacement for French users.
Join MEXC and Start Trading Today!
