How to use KuCoin in the US 2026

KuCoin officially left the US market on January 23, 2025. It is not available anymore in the country, and US residents are banned from trading on the platform. While users can still withdraw any leftover funds from KuCoin, trading access is disabled, leaving many US traders looking for possible workarounds. Luckily, KuCoin can still be accessed in the US with a VPN by connecting through a supported location.

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KuCoin VPN is an effective solution for continuing to trade in the US without interruptions. By masking your real IP address and assigning one from a country where KuCoin is available, a VPN helps bypass geo-restrictions while keeping your connection secure while trading.

After extensive hands-on testing and analysis, our team identified the VPNs that work most reliably with KuCoin and restore access without unnecessary friction. That said, based on our results, NordVPN ranks as the best VPN for KuCoin thanks to its large server network and stable performance. Surfshark takes the second place due to its budget-friendly pricing, while Proton VPN comes in third, offering a solid free version that’s backed by strong security. Continue reading to learn the best VPNs for KuCoin and how to use them.

Trading on KuCoin from an unauthorized country using a VPN goes against KuCoin’s Terms & Conditions. If caught using a VPN, the assets will be frozen, and your access will be revoked. Therefore, use this method only with reliable VPN services to minimize the risks.

Our recommended KuCoin VPNs

1. NordVPN

   Overall the best VPN for KuCoin
   9.8
2. Surfshark VPN

   Affordable VPN with servers in KuCoin-supported countries
   9.5
3. Proton VPN

   Secure KuCoin VPN with free version
   8.6
4. TotalVPN

   Cheapest KuCoin VPN
   8.2
5. Norton VPN

   User-friendly VPN for KuCoin in US
   7.3

KuCoin US availability: why you need a VPN

​As of January 23, 2025, KuCoin is not available in the US after the exchange implemented stricter compliance measures to meet US regulatory requirements. All accounts belonging to US residents were closed, US-based logins were disabled, and access from US IP addresses is now restricted. As a result, US users can no longer complete identity verification or trade on the KuCoin platform.

Using a reliable VPN to mask your location is the only way to access KuCoin from the US, but it's important to note that KuCoin's terms of service prohibit such actions. This is especially relevant given KuCoin’s recent legal situation.

In February 2025, KuCoin pleaded guilty to operating an unlicensed money-transmitting business, agreed to pay nearly $300 million in penalties and confirmed it cannot legally reopen to US traders without major licensing changes. Attempting to access the platform using a VPN therefore carries significant risks, including potential account suspension or loss of funds.

You can still use KuCoin in the US to access existing accounts, but doing so requires a reliable VPN capable of masking your IP location and preventing DNS or WebRTC leaks.

Additionally, as of August 31, 2023, KuCoin requires mandatory KYC verification for all users. During the verification process, identity and payment details must align with the VPN location used, otherwise KuCoin may detect VPN usage. This could lead to severe consequences, including account suspension or asset freezing. However, if you have a foreign payment card and plan to use a VPN while in the US, make sure that your VPN location matches the card’s issuing country.

Best VPNs for KuCoin in 2026

After testing 29 leading VPN providers, it was clear that not every VPN is up to the task. Our research team’s criteria included performance, security features, server selection, geo-restriction bypass capabilities, and overall value for money. Based on the results, NordVPN, Surfshark, Proton VPN, TotalVPN, and Norton stood out as the best VPNs for KuCoin, thanks to their strong security, fast speeds, and reliable ability to bypass geo-restrictions.

Top 1. NordVPN – overall best VPN for KuCoin

NordVPN is the best VPN for accessing KuCoin in the US and other restricted regions in 2026 due to its vast server network and top-tier security features.

With 9,300 + servers in 137+ countries – including KuCoin-supported locations like Mexico, France, and Spain – NordVPN ensures seamless access while maintaining strong privacy protections. In my testing, it consistently allowed stable access to KuCoin from the US without IP or leak-related issues. Operating from Panama, a privacy-friendly jurisdiction, it’s a trusted choice for millions of users worldwide.

The provider runs the entire network, which uses RAM-only server technology to ensure top-notch data protection. Furthermore, wicked-fast connections are conducted using the proprietary NordLynx protocol, which is modeled after WireGuard.

Unlike its competitors, NordVPN keeps customers safe against viruses and malware with its powerful Threat Protection feature. This tool scans your device for malicious files and blocks other online nuisances. Moreover, this service employs one of the most reliable kill switches on top of already robust leak protections to avoid accidental IP slips.

NordVPN is the best overall VPN for KuCoin, with subscription prices starting at $3.09/month. Don’t hesitate to try it yourself with a 3-day free trial and continue risk-free thanks to the 30-day money-back guarantee.

For a deeper investigation, read our NordVPN review.

Top 2. Surfshark – fast and affordable KuCoin VPN

Surfshark is a reliable VPN for KuCoin US customers who want to trade on multiple devices. With servers in over 100 countries, Surfshark makes it easy to access geo-blocked websites and services like KuCoin. Plus, it offers one of the industry's best speeds and unlimited simultaneous connections.

The service boasts 4,500+ servers around the globe, opening plenty of server locations in countries where KuCoin is available. During tests, Surfshark reliably allowed access to KuCoin from the US when connected to servers in KuCoin-supported regions such as Mexico and France, with zero connection issues.

All of Surfshark's servers are RAM-only, meaning there’s no chance of finding residual data on hard drives if authorities ever seize the servers. Connection performance is also impressive with the open-source WireGuard protocol.

Surfshark users have no shortage of tools to keep their online activities hidden and well-guarded. Firstly, CleanWeb will block ads and online trackers from muddying your internet escapades. Meanwhile, NoBorders mode will mask your traffic and prevent VPN restrictions from affecting you. Lastly, the IP Rotator adds an extra layer of anonymity when connecting to KuCoin from the US by periodically switching your assigned IP address.

Surfshark is one of the most affordable VPNs for KuCoin, and you can unlock it for as little as $1.99/month. The best deals are reserved for Surfshark VPN coupon holders. Best of all, you can test the waters with a free 7-day trial while each subscription is insured with a 30-day money-back warranty.

For a deeper investigation, read our Surfshark VPN review.

Top 3. Proton VPN – a secure VPN for bypassing KuCoin restrictions in the USA

Proton VPN is the best KuCoin VPN for users seeking top-tier privacy and reliability. Based in Switzerland, it benefits from strong privacy laws and a strict no-logs policy, ensuring user anonymity.

With a network of 20,075+ servers in 145+ countries, including KuCoin-supported locations like Mexico, France, and Spain, Proton VPN offers reliable access while maintaining fast, stable connections. In tests, it consistently unblocked KuCoin from the US without any noticeable slowdowns. And since it utilizes WireGuard and Secure Core technology for enhanced security, users are protected from surveillance and VPN detection.

A single Proton VPN account supports 10 simultaneous connections, making it suitable for securing multiple devices. Advanced features include a VPN Accelerator for speed improvements, Tor over VPN, and perfect forward secrecy for maximum encryption strength.

Pricing starts at just $2.99/month, and users can try it risk-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee. There’s also a limited free plan for those who want to test the service before committing.

See our professional assessment of Proton VPN in the complete review.

Top 4. TotalVPN – cheap KuCoin VPN

TotalVPN is a great KuCoin VPN for those who don’t want to spend a lot of money on a VPN subscription. In addition, it is reliable at unblocking KuCoin and maintaining decent performance during sessions.

TotalVPN’s server fleet is a bit small compared to competitors, but it is enough to reach KuCoin-available countries. Out of 1,800 servers in 90 countries, some of them are located in France and Spain, where the trading platform is fully operational.

The VPN service provider is very user-friendly and easy to install. It is also included in a TotalAV antivirus suite, which is suitable for well-rounded internet and device protection. If you opt only for the VPN, it has a robust security suite as well, including strong encryption, a kill switch, and DNS and IP leak protection.

TotalVPN is only $1.59/month, making it one of the cheapest KuCoin VPN providers. Furthermore, you can test the service risk-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read more about TotalVPN in our TotalVPN review.

Top 5. Norton VPN – user-friendly VPN for KuCoin

Norton VPN is an excellent choice as a KuCoin VPN for beginners. It is easy to use and reliably unblocks KuCoin from the US.

The service provider has a substantial server fleet, with 2,000+ servers in over 65 locations. This is enough to access and unblock KuCoin using servers in KuCoin-friendly countries such as France, Spain, or Germany. Norton maintains a stable connection, and you can use its WireGuard and proprietary Mimic protocols for high performance while trading.

Norton VPN supports up to 10 simultaneous connections (depending on the plan), making it a great VPN to use on various devices. In addition, it is very secure by employing military-grade encryption, a kill switch (on Windows, macOS, and Android), and DNS and IP leak protection.

You can get Norton VPN for just $3.33/month, and if you are unsure, you can take advantage of a generous 60-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full Norton VPN review.

Best KuCoin VPNs compared

How I selected these KuCoin VPNs

I have tested 29 VPN services with the KuCoin platform to see whether I could trade without trouble. However, I had to start by reviewing some of these services' general perks.

• Country options and server network. Since KuCoin is not accessible in regions such as the United States, mainland China, Japan, Belgium, the Netherlands, and several sanctioned countries, I focused on VPNs with servers in supported locations like Mexico, France, Spain, and other EU or LATAM regions.
• Security and privacy features. Unsurprisingly, cybercriminals are more likely to target crypto traders than most. That means your KuCoin VPN needs diverse and reliable protection tools against malware and phishing attacks, such as strong encryption, a strict no-logs policy, leak protection (DNS and WebRTC), a kill switch, and up-to-date tunneling protocols like WireGuard/NordLynx or OpenVPN.
• Tunneling protocols and connection speed. While crypto trading isn’t the most data-intensive activity, you don’t want your internet connection to stall, either. This is guaranteed with efficient VPN tunneling protocols, such as WireGuard. During testing, I focused on connection stability, latency, and speed retention while connected to KuCoin-supported regions to ensure trades and account actions weren’t disrupted by slowdowns or drops.
• Subscription price. Since VPNs are typically used long-term rather than for a single trade, I prioritized providers that offer strong value and affordable pricing without compromising security or performance. With that in mind, I selected providers with excellent price-to-performance ratios.
• Customer support options. Using a KuCoin VPN to circumvent geo-blocking can be an error-prone and frustrating experience. That’s why I prioritized VPN providers with responsive 24/7 support, since quick assistance can help resolve connection issues, server problems, or security concerns before they disrupt account access.

Where is KuCoin available?

KuCoin is a cryptocurrency exchange platform accessible in over 180 countries worldwide, including regions across North America, South America, Europe, and Asia. However, certain countries have implemented restrictions or laws prohibiting access to the platform.

KuCoin restricted countries list 2026

As of January 23, 2025, KuCoin has ceased operations in the United States due to regulatory requirements, leading to the closure of all US user accounts. Other restricted regions include mainland China, Hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Uzbekistan, and Ontario, Canada.

Here are the countries where KuCoin is restricted:

Luckily, using top VPNs, like NordVPN, allows you to change your virtual location to a country with the full KuCoin version.

How to access KuCoin in the US with a VPN

KuCoin users outside supported regions face restrictions due to Know Your Customer (KYC) verification. Without KYC, you can only access limited trading features and withdrawals. Unfortunately, KuCoin doesn’t support KYC verification in certain regions, including the United States and other jurisdictions where the exchange is not licensed or fully compliant. As a result, users from these locations may be unable to complete verification at all and will remain subject to ongoing account limitations. To thoroughly verify your KuCoin account, you'll need:

• A government-issued ID (passport, driver’s license, or national ID card)
• A live selfie verification process
• Proof of residency (in some cases)

Since KuCoin’s complete verification isn’t available in the US, a VPN can help by changing your virtual location to a supported country.

Here’s how to use KuCoin in the US:

Step 1. Get a secure VPN

Users in the US face restrictions when trying to access KuCoin, which makes a reliable and secure VPN essential. A VPN with strong encryption and leak protection helps mask your location and keep your activity private while unblocking KuCoin. Based on our testing, NordVPN is currently the best VPN for KuCoin in the US, thanks to its fast speeds, robust security features, and consistent ability to access KuCoin from restricted countries.

Step 2. Download and install a VPN

After purchasing a subscription, download and install a VPN on your device. Depending on your device, the installation process may differ, but generally, it is very simple, and you just need to follow the on-screen instructions.

Step 3. Select a server where KuCoin supports KYC verification

When you are done with setting up your VPN on a device, select a server in a country where KuCoin is available, like Australia, Germany, or Brazil. Connect to it by clicking on the server on the map or on the server list.

Step 4. Log in to your KuCoin account

While connected to the server, open the KuCoin website and log in to your account. If you don’t have one, create a new account. Verify your account via the email link. Then, you can continue with the KYC verification process.

Do keep in mind that you will need to provide your card details, and if it doesn’t match the country you have connected to with a VPN, KuCoin may flag VPN usage. This can lead to serious consequences, like account suspension or frozen assets.

Step 5. Start trading

That’s it! Use KuCoin from anywhere unrestricted and trade even in the US.

Access KuCoin anywhere with NordVPN

Is using a VPN to access KuCoin in the United States legal?

Yes, it’s legal, but utilizing a VPN to use the full Kucoin version in the US goes against KuCoin’s Terms of Service. Being caught with a flimsy VPN can result in terminated access to the account and frozen funds. On the other hand, creating an account in the US is possible either way, but you will only get very limited features.

For example, you’ll only be able to withdraw 1 BTC or $400 worth of funds every 24 hours. Meanwhile, verified users can withdraw 200 BTC (or $500,000). Plus, your customer support requests will have lower priority.

KuCoin not working with a VPN: solution

Due to constant legal waves in the crypto trading ocean, some unexpected hiccups might occur when using KuCoin in the US. Alternatively, a faulty connection can cause surprise errors as well. Whatever the case, here are a few steps to mitigate issues with your VPN and KuCoin.

1. Make sure KuCoin supports your server country. The list of KuCoin-supported countries can change due to legal changes or other issues. Therefore, you should always double-check whether your VPN server country is supposed to work with KuCoin.
2. Check for IP and DNS leaks. DNS and IP leaks can reveal your actual location and thus prevent effective geo-block circumvention. Use online tools like ipleak.net to check for cracks in the VPN connection.
3. Connect to another server. KuCoin won’t make it clear if a VPN IP address is blocked. If you suspect it is, an easy fix is switching to another server.
4. Enable Stealth VPN. Some networks restrict VPN traffic entirely. However, that’s not a huge issue if the service has features for bypassing VPN blocks. These tools make your traffic appear as regular HTTPS activity rather than VPN-encrypted traffic.
5. Try using a browser extension. A different approach would be using a VPN browser extension instead of an app. If your provider has this option, it's worth a shot.
6. Contact customer support. No need to fret if you run out of ideas – your VPN’s customer service specialists might know what’s up.

Trade securely with NordVPN

Final thoughts on using KuCoin in the US

As KuCoin remains unavailable in the US, many users are left with restricted access and limited options. That said, using a reliable VPN for KuCoin is one of the most effective ways to maintain secure access to the platform while protecting your online privacy. A VPN encrypts your traffic and masks your real IP address, reducing the risk of exposure on public or unsecured networks.

Based on my recent tests, NordVPN stands out as the best KuCoin VPN in 2026, thanks to its fast connections, extensive server coverage, and strong privacy protections. As a useful tool for secure access, account management, and withdrawals, NordVPN offers the safest and most consistent solution available.

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KuCoin VPN FAQ

Can I use KuCoin in the US?

No, KuCoin is not officially available in the US due to regulatory and compliance issues, having withdrawn services and agreed to a US market exit in early 2025. US citizens cannot complete the mandatory identity verification (KYC). You can only withdraw your existing funds, but the full version is only available with the help of a VPN.

Is KuCoin available in Canada?

KuCoin is partially available in Canada. Most provinces allow access, but users in Ontario and British Columbia face restrictions since KuCoin is not licensed under local securities regulations. These regulations limit trading functionality and KYC verification in those regions.

Is KuCoin available in New York?

No, KuCoin is not available in New York. The company settled a lawsuit with the New York Attorney General in late 2023, agreeing to cease all operations in the state, prevent New Yorkers from using its platform, and refund affected investors. You can only access KuCoin in New York with a VPN, like NordVPN, which successfully bypasses geo-restrictions and unblocks the website from anywhere.

How do I access KuCoin in the USA?

You can access KuCoin in the US with a VPN. Select a trustworthy VPN, like NordVPN, connect to the server in a country where KuCoin is fully supported, such as France or Spain, and bypass the geo-restrictions. Keep in mind that this method carries risks, as it may violate KuCoin's terms of service.

Can I use KuCoin in the US without KYC verification?

No, you cannot use KuCoin in the US without KYC verification. KuCoin made KYC verification mandatory for all new users starting in August 2023 to use their products and services. As US citizens are barred from completing the official KYC, trading on the platform is effectively inaccessible without violating their terms and using a VPN.

What is the best VPN for KuCoin?

NordVPN is the best VPN for KuCoin. It has a vast server fleet, consisting of 7100+ servers in 118 countries, making it easy to unblock the crypto trading platform in the US. Plus, it provides robust security and privacy features, allowing you to use KuCoin worry-free.

How to withdraw from KuCoin in the US?

For users in the US, KuCoin restricts most activities, but crypto withdrawals are typically still allowed. The process involves: logging into your account, navigating to Assets > Withdrawal, selecting the cryptocurrency and network, and providing an external wallet address to transfer your funds off the exchange. You cannot withdraw fiat currency like USD.

When will KuCoin be available in the US?

KuCoin will be unavailable in the US for at least two years following its January 2025 guilty plea to US criminal charges. The settlement requires KuCoin to pay a $300 million penalty and agree to exit the US market until it can secure the necessary licenses and fully comply with US financial regulations.