Bitget stopped new account registrations from Japanese residents and will impose restrictions on existing user accounts starting November 1. Any open positions left by December 31 will be forcibly closed as part of the exchange's withdrawal from the Japanese market.
Users flagged as Japanese residents who think this classification is incorrect must complete a Level 2 identity and address verification before November to avoid restrictions. Those failing to verify will remain under the restrictions applied to Japan-based accounts. Bitget will provide affected users with detailed instructions on next steps via email, including options for asset withdrawal or management.
Regulatory pressure drives Bitget’s exit
This latest move follows years of warnings from Japan’s Financial Services Agency and the Kanto Local Finance Bureau. The FSA first flagged Bitget in March 2023 for offering crypto services without registration. Despite repeated notices, including one in November 2024, Bitget continued operations in the country without local authorization. In mid-2025, the Kanto bureau warned BTG Technology Holdings Limited linked to Bitget for soliciting over-the-counter derivatives trades without registration.
Bitget’s decision to close its Japan operations echoes a broader trend of crypto platforms limiting services in regions where they lack official licenses. This comes as regulators worldwide tighten controls and scrutinize exchanges to protect local investors.
This material is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.
