Bitget Blocks Canadian Users Amid Regulatory Uncertainty

Bitget, a well-known cryptocurrency exchange, has been facing restrictions for its Canadian users since January 2026. According to reports, Bitget sent a notice directly to Canadian IP addresses on January 12, 2026, informing them that they would no longer be able to access new or expanded services due to updated guidance from the Canadian Securities Administrators (CSA) around stablecoin custody.

As a result of this geofencing, Canadian users are no longer allowed to sign up for new accounts, use Interac or bank wire funding, or participate in Bitget Earn pools. Existing positions on the platform are also being force-closed over a 90-day window, and withdrawals to external wallets can only be made until further notice.

Bitget's decision not to register as a FINTRAC Money Services Business and go through a Pre Registration Undertaking with the OSC and CIRO is likely behind this move. This would have required segregating Canadian user funds from the platform's global operations, which may have been too costly or time-consuming for Bitget.

For those affected by these changes, BTCC (Big Time Crypto) might be a viable alternative. As a futures-focused exchange with a high leverage ceiling and clean security history, BTCC offers a reliable option for traders looking to hedge their bets on the crypto market.