If you've been using Bitget, you might have noticed some changes rolling out regarding identity verification. Starting September 1, 2023, the platform made level 1 KYC mandatory for all users. This isn't just Bitget being difficult—it's actually about keeping your account safer and meeting global crypto regulations that are tightening up everywhere.
The good news? The whole verification process takes maybe five minutes if you have your ID ready. Let's walk through why this matters and exactly how to get it done.
Bitget is joining other major exchanges in requiring basic identity verification. This shift comes down to two main reasons: protecting users from fraud and staying compliant with international financial regulations. The cryptocurrency industry is maturing, and with that comes more oversight.
Here's the timeline you need to know:
September 1 to October 1: Grace period where everything works normally even without verification
After October 1: Unverified accounts can only withdraw funds and close positions—no new trades allowed
If you're actively trading, you'll want to handle this sooner rather than later. Waiting until the deadline means potentially getting locked out of opportunities when the market moves.
For traders looking for a reliable platform that balances security with user experience, 👉 getting started with verified accounts on leading exchanges like Bitget ensures you maintain full access to all trading features without interruption.
Between September 1 and October 1, nothing changes—you can deposit, withdraw, and trade like always. But after that cutoff, unverified accounts hit some serious limitations.
You'll still be able to:
Withdraw your funds
Cancel existing orders
Redeem any subscriptions
Close open positions
But you won't be able to:
Place new trades
Access certain advanced features
Participate in new product launches
Basically, your account becomes read-only for most practical purposes. Not ideal if you're trying to capitalize on market movements or manage an active portfolio.
Level 1 verification is straightforward. You need three things: your phone or computer, a government-issued ID, and about five minutes of your time.
Step one: Log into your Bitget account and navigate to the Identity Verification section. You can usually find this in your account settings or profile menu.
Step two: Click the verification button for level 1 KYC. The system will prompt you to select your country or region—this determines which ID types are acceptable.
Step three: Upload a clear photo of your ID. Make sure the image isn't blurry and all the information is readable. Most people use a passport or driver's license.
Step four: Complete the facial recognition check. You'll need to authorize camera access and follow the on-screen prompts. This usually involves taking a selfie and maybe turning your head slightly to confirm you're a real person.
Once submitted, Bitget reviews your information fairly quickly—often within a few hours, though it can take up to a day during busy periods. You'll get a notification once you're approved, and then you're all set to use every feature the platform offers.
While mandatory verification might feel like an extra hoop to jump through, it does make the platform safer overall. Verified accounts are harder to compromise, which means fewer scammers and less fraud affecting the ecosystem.
Plus, having verified status often unlocks higher withdrawal limits and access to premium features down the road. Many exchanges tier their services based on verification level, so getting this done now positions you well for future upgrades.
The crypto space is moving toward more legitimacy and mainstream adoption. Platforms that implement proper KYC processes tend to attract more institutional investors and serious traders, which typically means better liquidity and tighter spreads for everyone.
Don't wait until September 30 to handle this. Last-minute rushes often mean longer processing times as support teams get swamped with verification requests. Knock it out now while there's no pressure.
If you run into issues—maybe your ID photo keeps getting rejected or the facial recognition isn't working—reach out to Bitget support early. They can troubleshoot problems and make sure you're not stuck unable to trade when October rolls around.
For anyone still evaluating which platform to use for crypto trading, 👉 choosing exchanges with robust security measures and smooth verification processes makes a real difference in your day-to-day trading experience.
The bottom line: five minutes now saves you from headaches later. Get your verification done, keep trading without interruption, and stay ahead of the regulatory curve that's reshaping the entire crypto industry.