Bybit to Restrict Global Platform Access for EEA Users Under MiCA Rules

TLDR

---

Bybit will progressively limit access to certain services on its global platform for users living in the European Economic Area as the European Union’s MiCA transition period ends on July 1, 2026.

The exchange said affected users will receive clear instructions before any restrictions take effect. Bybit said those communications will explain timelines for managing existing and new positions, transferring funds, and keeping access to assets held in user accounts.

The company is directing European users toward Bybit EU, its separate regulated platform licensed in Austria under the Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation. Bybit EU operates from Vienna and serves EEA clients, except residents of Malta.

Bybit Global Access to Be Limited in the EEA

As per the report, Bybit said the changes are part of its regulatory alignment work in Europe. The company said access to certain services on Bybit Global will be “progressively limited” for EEA residents, rather than describing the process as an immediate loss of asset access.

The exchange said users will retain access to their assets custodied in their accounts while they address open positions and balances. It also advised customers to follow official communications for updates that may affect account activity.

The EEA countries covered by the notice include Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Poland, Sweden, Norway, and several other European markets. Malta is not included because Bybit EU’s licenses are not currently passported there.

Some social media posts described the move as Bybit stopping services immediately across the EEA. However, Bybit’s notice said restrictions will be phased and that users will receive further information before measures are implemented.

Bybit EU Offers MiCA-Regulated Platform

Bybit EU is the group’s regulated European platform and operates through a MiCAR-authorized entity in Austria. The platform offers crypto custody, crypto asset management, exchange services between crypto and fiat or other digital assets, and transfer services.

European users need a separate account to use Bybit EU. The company has launched a “Move Your Funds, Get Rewarded” campaign through July 31, 2026, aimed at users moving to the regulated platform.

The campaign includes a welcome package starting from €20, card bonuses of up to €120, and first-month subscription cashback. It also offers accelerated VIP status for 30 to 90 days with deposits of $100 or more.

Bybit EU also offers 3% annual USDC cashback on deposits of $50,000 or more, capped at $30,000 over 12 months. Bybit EU CEO Mazurka Zeng said users increasingly value “clarity, continuity, and platforms built with long-term regulatory readiness in mind.”

MiCA Deadline Reshapes Europe Crypto Market

Bybit’s decision comes as the MiCA rulebook reaches full effect across the EU. The framework creates a licensing system for crypto asset service providers and allows authorized firms to serve clients across the bloc through passporting rights.

According to ESMA-related figures cited in reports, only about 210 of more than 1,200 companies had received authorization by late May. Market participants have warned that many operators may leave or reduce services because of the compliance burden.

Binance has become the most visible example of the shift. As we reported, the exchange failed to secure a license in Greece, withdrew its application, and will suspend or restrict services in several EU countries from July 1.

By contrast, licensed platforms such as Coinbase, Kraken, OKX, and Bybit EU can serve European users under MiCA authorization. OKX executive Star Xu said more exchanges are choosing to comply with MiCA and serve EEA users through licensed EU entities.

Users Told to Follow Official Updates

Bybit said customers should wait for official instructions before taking account action. The exchange said support teams remain available for users with questions during the transition.

The company also said Bybit EU is pursuing additional licensing in Austria to cover a wider range of products. That suggests the European platform may expand services over time as regulatory approvals develop.

The move shows how MiCA is separating licensed European crypto platforms from offshore global platforms. For EEA users, the main near-term tasks are to monitor Bybit notices, manage open positions, and decide whether to migrate assets to Bybit EU or another licensed provider.