How to use KuCoin in the US: 2026 guide
Our in-house cybersecurity experts and journalists, renowned for major reports like The Mother of All Breaches, conduct transparent, unbiased VPN testing and in-depth analysis.
With 750+ articles crafted based on real-world research, we empower readers to make informed purchasing decisions through first-hand expertise.
Learn more
KuCoin is one of the largest crypto exchanges worldwide, with over 40 million users in 200+ countries. It offers advanced trading tools, staking, and features like Trading Bots and KuCoin Earn. However, as of January 2025, KuCoin has fully exited the US market after a $290 million settlement with federal regulators. As a result, US residents can no longer legally register, trade, or access KuCoin accounts, and American accounts were closed following an official exchange notice.
So, how to use KuCoin in the US now? A reputable VPN can help you access the platform by masking your IP address and encrypting your connection to reduce cyber risks. Below, I explain how to do just that and recommend the best VPNs for KuCoin, based on our hands-on testing.
I don’t recommend trading on KuCoin with a VPN since trading requires special licenses. If you use a VPN from a country where trading on KuCoin is illegal, there is a considerable chance that the platform will notice that you’re using a VPN and freeze your assets or block you from using your account.
How to use KuCoin in the US with a VPN
- Pick a reliable VPN and download the app – I recommend NordVPN, now 75% OFF
- Install the app and log in to your account
- Connect to a country where KuCoin is available, like Germany
- Register with KuCoin and start trading
Why do you need a VPN to trade on KuCoin in the US?
The full version of KuCoin with all its features is only available to those who can be verified through KYC. Since KuCoin doesn’t have a license to operate in the US, the KYC verification process is not available. This means that US users face restrictions on the platform, such as withdrawal limits and no access to deposit services.
A reliable VPN can help you bypass these geo-restrictions by changing your location and IP address, granting you access to KuCoin without the rules that apply to US users. Additionally, a VPN offers the following benefits:
- Data security. A VPN is the best way to protect your information online. It will encrypt your data, making it anonymous and difficult to hack. So, you can safely browse online without ISP monitoring or fearing cyberthreats. Also, premium VPNs have features like a kill switch to prevent accidental data leaks, DNS and IP leak protection, and more.
- Online threat prevention. Premium VPNs come with various useful features, like an ad blocker, malware detection tools, and data breach features, to name a few. These features help prevent online threats from targeting your data and allow a safer and more enjoyable browsing experience.
Best VPNs to access KuCoin from the US in 2026
The Cybernews research team and I reviewed 41 top VPN providers to select the best ones for KuCoin. My list is based on the providers’ performance results, security features, server list, ability to bypass geo-restrictions, and overall price-to-value ratio.
- NordVPN – overall best VPN for KuCoin US customers
- Surfshark – budget-friendly VPN with servers in KuCoin-supported countries
- IPVanish – excellent KuCoin VPN with unlimited connections
1. NordVPN – best VPN for KuCoin with an extensive selection of global servers
| Based in: | Panama |
| Servers/countries: | 9,500+ servers in 149 countries |
| Cryptocurrency payments: | ✅ Yes |
| Current deal: | Get 75% OFF NordVPN + 3 months free |
NordVPN is the best VPN for KuCoin thanks to its vast server fleet that allows users to choose from many locations where KuCoin is fully available with all its features. It also offers excellent security, which will protect your personal data while using the platform.
Servers. With over 9,500 servers in 149 countries, you’ll easily find the best server to connect to in a country where the full version of KuCoin is available, such as Germany, Italy, Spain, and France. During my tests, I also found that all KuCoin features were available, and I was able to sell and withdraw while connected to a server in France from the US.
Performance. While using NordVPN’s proprietary NordLynx (upgraded WireGuard) tunneling protocol to connect to an IP address in France, I found that connection speeds remained excellent, and I didn’t experience significant drops. Plus, NordVPN’s desktop and mobile apps are well organized and easy to navigate on all devices and OSs I tested, including Android, iOS, Windows, and macOS.
Security. NordVPN ensures your data is protected while using a crypto trading platform like KuCoin with its AES-256 encryption, reliable kill switch to prevent data leaks, RAM-only servers, and independently audited no-logs policy. Additionally, you can use an obfuscation feature to simplify bypassing geo-restrictions. NordVPN also accepts crypto payments for even more privacy.
Features. NordVPN’s Threat Protection feature blocks ads, trackers, and malware from targeting your device. Additionally, this VPN includes DNS leak protection, a split tunneling feature, specialty servers, and many other useful tools.
You can purchase NordVPN for as low as $3.49/month and enjoy 10 simultaneous connections. This VPN has dedicated apps for all of your OS options, and you can test it risk-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Learn more in our detailed NordVPN review.
2. Surfshark – fast KuCoin VPN for private trading in US
| Based in: | The Netherlands |
| Servers/countries: | 4,500+ servers in 100 countries |
| Cryptocurrency payments: | ✅ Yes |
| Current deal: | Now up to 85% OFF Surfshark + 3 months FREE |
Surfshark is one of the fastest KuCoin VPN providers, allowing US customers to enjoy trading without unnecessary lags or speed throttling while also maintaining excellent data security. It's one of the cheapest, too. Need extra off? There's a great Surfshark discount code "OFFCN" for you.
Servers. Surfshark offers secure 4,500+ servers in 100 countries. So, you’ll easily connect to a server in a KuCoin-friendly location, such as France or the Netherlands, to enjoy the full version of this trading platform. In my experience, I was able to access all KuCoin features and trade without any issues while connected to a server in France from the US.
Performance. This is one of the fastest VPNs on the market currently. Using the market-standard WireGuard tunneling protocol to test Surfshark’s speeds, I was able to trade on KuCoin lag-free. In addition, Surfshark’s apps were easy to install and set up, and the servers were easy to find on all devices I used, which included iOS, Android, Windows, and macOS.
Security. Robust security features like next-gen encryption, RAM-only servers, a strict kill switch, leak protection, and an independently audited no-logs policy ensure your data anonymity and safety while trading on KuCoin.
Features. The NoBorders feature works like obfuscation, CleanWeb will block ads and trackers, and the alert feature will inform you if your data has been leaked anywhere. Additionally, you can enhance your security package with Surfshark antivirus and prevent malware threats.
Purchase Surfshark for as low as $2.49/month and get a robust VPN app for all your devices with unlimited simultaneous connections. You can also try it out for free with its 30-day money-back guarantee and 7-day free trial available for Android, iOS, and Mac devices.
For more information, check out our Surfshark VPN review.
3. IPVanish – an affordable KuCoin VPN to keep your crypto wallet safe
| Based in: | United States |
| Servers/countries: | 3,400 + servers in 112 countries |
| Cryptocurrency payments: | ❌ No |
| Current deal: |
Now up to 83% OFF IPVanish
|
IPVanish is an affordable and dependable VPN solution that enhances the security of your KuCoin wallet when accessing the platform from the US.
Servers. IPVanish provides a large network with over 3,400 servers across more than 112 locations worldwide. I was able to use IPVanish’s servers in Germany, Italy, and France to access KuCoin and trade on it from the US.
Performance. IPVanish supports tunneling protocols, including OpenVPN and IKEv2, ensuring stable and efficient connections and smooth and uninterrupted access to cryptocurrency trading platforms like KuCoin. While I found IPVanish’s apps to be relatively easy to use, they might be better suited for more experienced users due to the large number of features and advanced settings, which may be confusing for beginners.
Security. IPVanish secures your online activities with AES-256 encryption and includes essential security features like a kill switch. It adheres to a strict no-logs policy, ensuring your data remains private and secure while trading on KuCoin or browsing online.
Features. IPVanish enhances user privacy with features like DNS leak protection and provides an automatic startup option, ensuring protection is always active. This is especially important when accessing crypto platforms to maintain security and anonymity.
IPVanish offers competitive pricing, starting at just $2.19/month, including advanced security features and a 30-day money-back guarantee. It is a cost-effective choice for crypto traders looking for robust security solutions.
Learn more in our IPVanish review.
Where is KuCoin legal?
KuCoin is legal and restriction-free in most European countries, such as Germany, France, Spain, Portugal, and Poland. It’s also available in most Latin American and Asian countries, as well as Australia and South Africa.
In other countries, KuCoin offers limited functions, and users are prohibited from using its platform and services. These countries include the United States (including US territories), Singapore, mainland China and Hong Kong, Thailand, Malaysia, Uzbekistan, and Ontario, Canada.
This limitation prevents full identity verification (KYC), resulting in restricted functionalities for users. Unverified users can manage existing assets but cannot engage in activities requiring new purchases or opening new trading positions.
As of August 31st, 2023, KuCoin has enforced stricter KYC protocols to align with legal standards and improve security. This change requires new users to verify their identities for full-service access, while unverified users are limited to managing existing assets.
For unverified accounts, several restrictions apply:
- Trading. Unverified users can sell but cannot initiate new buy orders across various trading modes, including spot, margin, and leverage tokens.
- Account functions. Creating sub-accounts, APIs, or new trading bots is disabled.
- Purchases and withdrawals. Buying crypto via credit cards, fiat balances, or third-party services is prohibited, as is withdrawing fiat currency.
Users often use VPNs like NordVPN to bypass geographical restrictions and gain full access to KuCoin.
Is KuCoin legal in the US?
No, KuCoin does not have a license in the US, but users can still register on this platform. However, accounts based in the US are not fully verified and come with limited features.
US-based users are restricted to withdrawing a limited amount of funds every 24 hours, while verified accounts can withdraw significantly more. Additionally, customer support for US users is limited, and their requests may be treated as lower priority.
Therefore, a reliable VPN for KuCoin in the US can help KYC-verified users use the full KuCoin capabilities. All you have to do is connect to a server in a country where the platform is licensed to operate, such as Mexico, France, or Spain.
What can USA users do on KuCoin?
In the United States, KuCoin operates with some limitations. US residents can't access all platform features if they don't complete full identity checks. For example, they cannot create sub-accounts, make APIs, or buy crypto with credit cards or through online payment methods.
Also, these users can't deposit cryptocurrencies or withdraw money in fiat currency, and they can't start new trading positions. They can, however, sell the crypto they already have and manage existing trades to close or minimize them. US users can bypass these limitations and access all KuCoin features by using a VPN service like NordVPN. This approach allows them to appear as if they are connecting from a country where all KuCoin features are available.
How to trade on KuCoin with a VPN from the US
If you signed up for KuCoin after August 31st, 2023, you need to complete KYC verification to use KuCoin in the US. Only KYC-verified users can access all KuCoin features in restricted countries with a VPN. I strongly suggest using a VPN for KuCoin for security purposes instead of trying to access this platform from a country where it’s unavailable.
To verify your account, you will need to provide your card details. If it doesn’t match the country you have connected to with a VPN, then the trading platform will easily note the use of a VPN, and there can be serious repercussions, like freezing your assets or blocking your account.
However, if you own a foreign card and intend to use a VPN for KuCoin while traveling in the US, here’s a guide on how to do so:
- Get a secure VPN and download the app: I recommend NordVPN, now 75% OFF
- Install the app and log in to your account
- Connect to a country where KuCoin is available, such as Germany
-
Register with KuCoin
- Click Buy Crypto and choose your used currency
- Provide your card payment details and start trading on KuCoin
What to do if my VPN doesn't work with KuCoin?
Laws regarding trading platforms are constantly changing; therefore, you might experience difficulties trading on KuCoin if the platform suddenly becomes illegal in your country. Alternatively, it might be the change to the platform’s rules that prevents you from trading with a VPN.
There can be various reasons why you can’t trade with a VPN on KuCoin anymore; here are the possible explanations:
- You’ve connected to a server in a country where KuCoin isn’t available
- Your real IP address is leaking
- Cookies on your device show your real location
- Your VPN isn’t capable of spoofing your location
Here are the simple solutions to help you out:
- Connect to another server
- Clear the cache and cookies from your browser
- Check for IP or DNS leaks and enable the kill switch
- Contact your VPN provider’s customer support team
Better yet, if you encounter issues with trading on KuCoin with a VPN, you should consider getting a better and more reliable VPN. I recommend the top-rated NordVPN.
Final thoughts
KuCoin’s full version is not available to everyone. If you reside in the US, due to licensing issues, you will be limited to withdrawing a certain amount of funds, and trading may be restricted for you. Therefore, changing your IP address with a reliable VPN is the best way to access all features of this trading platform.
Based on my research, NordVPN is the best VPN for KuCoin. It has a vast list of global servers, allowing you to easily select a location where the crypto trading platform is available. Additionally, NordVPN comes with robust security features, excellent performance results, and a very budget-friendly price.
FAQ
Can I use KuCoin in the US?
Yes, you can use KuCoin from the US, but only its limited version with low withdrawal amounts and other restrictions. This is due to the lack of licensing and KYC verification and limited customer support.
How do I buy crypto on KuCoin in the USA?
You might need to use a VPN, like my top-rated NordVPN, to buy crypto on KuCoin in the US. After setting up your account (you can find a guide here), just head over to the “Buy Crypto” tab and purchase the number of tokens you want.
Can I use KuCoin with a VPN?
Yes, you can use a VPN with KuCoin, especially for security purposes. A VPN can help KYC-verified users access the full range of KuCoin’s capabilities while in the US. However, make sure to read the full ToS to see what the platform’s stance is on using a VPN for trading.
What countries can use KuCoin?
The full version of KuCoin is available everywhere worldwide, except for the US, mainland China and Hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Uzbekistan, and Ontario, Canada. So, you should be able to access this platform easily, and if you’re in one of the countries where this trading platform is restricted, a reliable VPN, like NordVPN, will help you bypass the restrictions.
Can US customers withdraw from KuCoin?
Yes, US customers can withdraw from KuCoin if their accounts are verified, allowing them to withdraw cryptocurrency and fiat money. However, unverified accounts are limited to withdrawing only cryptocurrencies. Completing the verification process enables full access to withdrawal options and other platform features.
How to withdraw from KuCoin in US?
If you’re a KYC-verified user, you can withdraw from KuCoin in the US by using a VPN to connect to the country where you registered for KuCoin. However, if you’re not verified, you can only withdraw limited amounts and only cryptocurrencies.
Can I use KuCoin without ID verification?
No, you can’t use KuCoin without ID verification. All new users who register on KuCoin after August 31st, 2023, must complete KYC verification to use the platform and its services.
What countries is KuCoin banned in?
KuCoin is fully banned in mainland China, Japan, the Netherlands, Belgium, Myanmar, and Sudan. It’s also prohibited and faces heavy restrictions in the US, Canada, the UK, the EU, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Syria, and Crimea. Users in such regions often use a VPN like NordVPN to change their location to a less restricted area, such as Germany, allowing them to use KuCoin without limitations.
