Coinbase is one of the most widely used crypto exchanges, but access is not universal. Due to regulatory requirements and global sanctions, certain countries and regions are restricted from using the platform. In this guide, we break down the latest Coinbase restricted countries in 2026, along with key limitations users should be aware of before signing up.
Coinbase Restricted Countries
Based on the latest Coinbase User Agreement and compliance policies, the following countries and regions are restricted:
- Cuba
- Iran
- North Korea
- Russia
- Syria
- Crimea (Ukraine)
- Donetsk (Ukraine)
- Luhansk (Ukraine)
- Afghanistan
- Balkans
- Belarus
- Burma (Myanmar)
- Central African Republic
- Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Ethiopia
- Hong Kong
- Iraq
- Lebanon
- Libya
- Mali
- Nicaragua
- Somalia
- South Sudan
- Sudan
- Venezuela
- Yemen
- Singapore
Coinbase also enforces restrictions based on sanctions programs such as those from the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), which can change over time.
Coinbase Supported Countries
Coinbase operates in over 190 countries worldwide, covering most major regions including North America, Europe, and parts of Asia.
However, availability is not identical everywhere. Some countries may have limited features, such as restricted fiat support, staking, or derivatives trading depending on local regulations.
Because Coinbase follows strict compliance standards, supported regions can change over time. Users should always confirm availability before registering.
Check out the full list of Coinbase supported countries here.
Is Coinbase Regulated & Licensed?
Coinbase is one of the most regulated crypto exchanges globally.
- In the United States, Coinbase operates under strict oversight and holds licenses such as the BitLicense from the New York Department of Financial Services
- It is also registered as a Money Services Business (MSB) with FinCEN
In Europe, Coinbase operates through regulated entities, including authorization from the Central Bank of Ireland and other EU regulators.
Coinbase also follows global compliance standards such as KYC, AML, and sanctions screening, which directly impacts where its services are available.
Does Coinbase Require KYC?
Yes, Coinbase requires full identity verification before users can access its services.
To complete KYC, users must provide:
- Government-issued ID (passport, driver’s license, or national ID)
- Proof of address (bank statement or utility bill)
- Facial verification (selfie)
Without verification, users cannot trade, deposit, or withdraw funds.
Bottom Line
Coinbase maintains one of the strictest compliance frameworks in the crypto industry, which directly affects its global availability. While it operates in over 190 countries, access is restricted in regions subject to sanctions or regulatory limitations.
For users in supported countries, Coinbase offers a secure and regulated trading environment. However, if your country is restricted, there is no reliable workaround, as access depends entirely on identity verification and compliance checks.
FAQs
1. Is Coinbase available in the United States?
Yes, Coinbase is fully available in the United States and operates under strict regulatory oversight.
2. Is Coinbase available in Canada?
Yes, Coinbase is available in Canada. However, certain features may vary depending on local regulations.
3. Is Coinbase available in the United Kingdom? (Fixed)
Yes, Coinbase is available in the United Kingdom.
Unlike earlier assumptions, Coinbase has started expanding regulated derivatives access in parts of Europe, although availability still depends on eligibility and region-specific rules.
4.Can I use Coinbase with a VPN?
Using a VPN does not bypass Coinbase’s restrictions.
Even if you access the platform through a VPN, identity verification is still required. If you are from a restricted country, you will not be able to complete KYC or use Coinbase services.
