In view of that, global cryptocurrency exchange Bitget has announced a temporary halt to new account sign-ups for users in India, starting February 6, 2026. It made the announcement earlier this week, on February 1, for the need to align with recent regulatory directives from Indian authorities.
Current Users Unaffected
This suspension only refers to the onboarding of new users. Current, verified Bitget customers in India still have complete access to all the services on the platform. They can execute trades, perform any deposit, and process a withdrawal with their accounts working as usual.
Key Details of the Announcement:
- The policy was first communicated on February 1, 2026.
- The suspension came into effect on February 6, 2026.
- The restriction applies only to new users attempting to register from India.
The action is linked to registration requirements with India’s Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU-IND). Existing users retain full access to their accounts and assets.
Regulatory Context
It is a direct reaction to increased monitoring by the Financial Intelligence Unit of India. After regulatory changes last year, the FIU-IND began to widen its purview to include stringent monitoring of VDA SPs. Now, all operational exchanges must register with the agency and adhere to strict AML/CFT norms. This prescribes in detail the due diligence on the user, monitoring of transactions, and reporting of specified financial transactions.
Also Read: What Is FIU India?
Bitget is currently undergoing this mandatory registration process. The proactive suspension of new Indian user acquisition is viewed as a measure to ensure operational compliance while completing formal regulatory requirements. This approach mirrors steps taken by several other international exchanges adjusting to India’s evolving digital asset framework.
Impact on Indian Users
The implications of this policy are clearly defined:
- For Existing Users: Individuals with verified Bitget accounts created prior to February 6, 2026, will experience no disruption in service.
- For Prospective Users: Any attempt to create a new account from India after the effective date will be blocked at the point of registration, both on Bitget’s website and mobile application.
The Evolving Crypto Landscape of India
This development mirrors the wider, conscious movement of the Indian regulator toward bringing the digital asset sector within the ambit of formal, regulated markets. The goal of the government, therefore, is to bring cryptocurrency transactions into the transparent mainstream of finance to reduce risks from illegal activities and evade taxes. Greater regulatory maturity will afford a much safer and more stable environment for trading and better protection for genuine investors, thereby improving market integrity.
Guidance for Investors to Compliant Platforms
The number one priority for Indian traders is choosing an exchange that clearly shows adherence to local law. Investors should conduct due diligence through following a structured approach in conducting an evaluation:
1. Verify FIU-IND Registration:
This can be done by verifying the exchange’s registration status directly from the exchange’s compliance/ legal documents. This is at the heart of legal operation in India itself.
2. Assess Local Market Commitment:
It would be preferable if the platform offers dedicated services to Indian users, such as access to seamless Indian Rupee (INR) deposits and withdrawals, Indian tax regulations, etc.
3. Test Platform Efficacy:
Sending a small transaction to test deposit and withdrawal speeds, as well as general reliability.
4. Review Security Protocols:
The platform’s security history and infrastructure, with emphasis on systems using solid security arrangements like majority assets in cold storage and regular security audits.
5. Gauge Responsiveness:
The level of service provided to the customer through the customer support, which reflects the platform’s commitment to service.
This change in regulation is also driving the creation of a new type of exchanges called ’compliance first exchanges,’ which are catering to regulated markets such as India by design from the outset.
Also Read: How to Choose Best Crypto Platform in 2026
Recommended Action Plan for New Users
Individuals affected by this suspension should consider the following steps:
- Acknowledge Bitget’s current operational pause for new Indian users.
- Shortlist alternate exchanges that are completely compliant with Indian regulations through research.
- Make a pilot transaction with a small amount to test full functionality of all aspects.
Final Thoughts
India’s regulatory decisions indicate their inclination toward building a system and structure in carrying out digital asset markets. Hence, regulatory decisions are not seen as a form of banning digital technology. Bitget’s halt in temporarily registering users is seen as a small part of this major regulatory development in the industry. Investors should focus on transacting and dealing only with institutions and exchanges that show impeccable regard and adherence to regulatory policies in order to safeguard their interests. Choosing a good exchange remains a pertinent and indispensable factor in carrying out safe cryptocurrency trade in India.