Guide to KYC on Bybit with an Antigua and Barbuda Passport in 2025

The intersection of citizenship, cryptocurrency, and regulatory compliance has never been more relevant for global citizens. If you hold an Antigua and Barbuda passport—whether by birth or through the Citizenship by Investment Program (CIP)—understanding how your nationality affects your access to major cryptocurrency exchanges like Bybit is crucial in today's digital economy.

As cryptocurrency adoption accelerates worldwide, exchanges have implemented increasingly sophisticated Know Your Customer (KYC) protocols to comply with global standards. Meanwhile, Antigua and Barbuda has positioned itself as a forward-thinking jurisdiction with a formal regulatory framework for digital assets. This creates a unique dynamic for Antiguans looking to participate in the crypto markets.

This guide explores exactly how Antigua and Barbuda's regulatory landscape intersects with Bybit's KYC requirements in 2025. We'll examine whether Bybit permits Antiguan users, how citizenship-by-investment affects your KYC experience, potential risks and opportunities, and practical advice for navigating this space successfully.

Whether you're a natural-born Antiguan citizen, a recent CIP recipient, or considering Antigua's citizenship program partly for its crypto-friendly reputation, this comprehensive analysis will help you understand what to expect when using Bybit and similar platforms.

Bybit's Access and KYC Policy for Antiguans

Current Availability Status

Good news for Antiguan passport holders: as of 2025, Bybit does not list Antigua and Barbuda among its excluded jurisdictions. This means that unlike users from restricted countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, or various sanctioned states, Antiguan citizens are permitted to register and trade on the platform.

This openness isn't accidental—it reflects Bybit's risk assessment of Antigua as a jurisdiction with sufficient regulatory controls and compliance standards. While many exchanges have become increasingly selective about which passports they accept, Antigua has maintained its standing as an approved nationality on most major platforms, including Bybit.

However, this access comes with important compliance requirements. Since May 2023, Bybit has made identity verification mandatory for all users across all services, aligning with industry-wide trends toward stricter KYC enforcement.

Nationality vs. Residency Considerations

A critical aspect of Bybit's policy that affects Antiguans is how the platform distinguishes between nationality and residency. Under Bybit's KYC framework, account restrictions are determined primarily by the user's citizenship (nationality), not just their physical location.

This distinction has significant implications:

1. An Antiguan passport is recognized and accepted as valid proof of identity for KYC purposes
2. Antigua & Barbuda is generally considered a low-risk jurisdiction in Bybit's compliance risk assessment
3. Bybit's system will verify your nationality during onboarding and flag if you're from a restricted country

However, nationality is just one piece of the puzzle. Bybit also collects information about your country of residence separately for tax and compliance reasons. This means an Antiguan citizen living in the United States, for example, would still be barred from service since U.S. residents are excluded regardless of their second citizenship.

This dual verification approach prevents users from circumventing jurisdiction-based restrictions through second citizenships alone. Your residency matters just as much as your passport.

Bybit's KYC Tiers and Requirements

Antiguans using Bybit must complete the platform's tiered verification process like all other users. These tiers include:

Standard KYC (Basic)

• Identity document verification (passport, national ID)
• Facial recognition check to confirm you match your ID
• Basic personal information (name, date of birth, etc.)

Advanced KYC

• Everything in Basic KYC
• Proof of address (utility bill, bank statement)
• Confirmation of residency details

Pro KYC (Enhanced Due Diligence)

• Applied to high-volume traders or accounts flagged for risk factors
• May include additional background checks
• Source of funds verification
• More extensive documentation requirements

For Antiguan users, completing at least Advanced KYC will generally be necessary to access Bybit's full functionality and maintain higher withdrawal limits. The good news is that Antiguan documents are fully accepted throughout this process—there are no special restrictions or extraordinary requirements imposed specifically on Antigua & Barbuda passport holders.

In practical terms, this means having your passport, a recent utility bill or bank statement showing your address, and potentially documentation showing the source of any significant funds you'll be depositing.

Antigua & Barbuda's Regulatory Framework for Crypto

The Digital Assets Business Act (DABA) 2020

Antigua and Barbuda established a comprehensive legal framework governing cryptocurrency businesses with the Digital Assets Business Act, 2020 (DABA), which took effect on June 18, 2020. This landmark legislation represents one of the Caribbean's most developed approaches to crypto regulation.

The core principle of DABA is straightforward yet far-reaching: any entity carrying on digital asset business in or from within Antigua and Barbuda must be licensed by the Financial Services Regulatory Commission (FSRC).

This requirement extends to a wide range of activities, including:

• Operating a cryptocurrency exchange
• Issuing or selling digital tokens
• Providing custodial wallet services
• Facilitating digital asset payments

The FSRC serves as the sole regulator and licensing authority for these businesses under DABA. To obtain a license, crypto exchanges must undergo a thorough vetting process that includes:

• Detailed application and significant fees
• Fitness and propriety checks on owners and directors
• Demonstration of robust AML (Anti-Money Laundering) controls
• Ongoing compliance with reporting and audit requirements

These regulatory measures weren't created in isolation—they align with Financial Action Task Force (FATF) guidelines for Virtual Asset Service Providers. Antigua crafted its digital asset regime to meet international standards while creating a stable environment for innovation.

Is Bybit Licensed in Antigua?

Here's where things get interesting for Antiguan users: As of March 2025, Bybit has not obtained an FSRC license and is not formally authorized in Antigua and Barbuda.

This creates a regulatory gray area. Under DABA 2020, technically, Bybit offering services to Antiguan residents without a license is not compliant with local law. However, in practice, Antiguan authorities have generally tolerated foreign platforms serving local customers, especially when those platforms have no physical presence in the country.

Several factors explain this situation:

1. Enforcement against overseas-based exchanges is challenging unless the company has local assets
2. The FSRC has prioritized regulating locally-established businesses first
3. Bybit and similar exchanges implement their own compliance programs that partially align with Antiguan objectives

To date, Antigua's FSRC has not announced any punitive actions against Bybit or similar exchanges for serving Antiguan users. There are no government-imposed IP blocks preventing Antiguans from accessing Bybit's website.

This means Bybit operates in a space that could be described as "operationally accessible but not officially sanctioned" in Antigua—a common situation in smaller jurisdictions where regulators are still developing their oversight capacity.

Implications for Antiguan Users

What does this regulatory status mean for you as an Antigua passport holder?

Most importantly, it indicates that you're using an exchange that operates outside the local regulatory perimeter. The consumer protections of Antigua's laws don't directly apply to your relationship with Bybit, which places more responsibility on you to exercise caution.

While it's not illegal for individual Antiguans to trade on Bybit (the law targets service providers rather than users), you should recognize that in case of disputes or problems, you cannot appeal to the FSRC or other Antiguan authorities for help.

The FSRC has consistently recommended caution when dealing with any crypto service not under its supervision. Until Bybit or any exchange becomes locally authorized, users won't have the protective umbrella of Antigua's regulatory framework to rely on.

This doesn't mean Bybit is unsafe—the exchange implements its own security and compliance measures globally. But it does mean that your relationship with the platform exists in a different regulatory context than, say, your relationship with an Antiguan-licensed financial institution.

KYC Treatment of Antiguan Citizens and CIP Holders

Standard KYC Process for Natural-Born Antiguans

If you were born in Antigua or acquired citizenship through conventional means (such as descent or naturalization), the KYC process on Bybit should be straightforward. Your Antiguan passport will be accepted without special restrictions, and you'll be treated like users from most other permitted jurisdictions.

The verification typically follows these steps:

1. Upload a clear scan/photo of your Antiguan passport (open to the photo page)
2. Complete a facial recognition check (usually a selfie or short video)
3. Provide proof of residence (utility bill, bank statement less than 3 months old)
4. Answer basic questions about your occupation and intended use of the platform

Bybit's algorithm will verify your Antiguan citizenship is from an approved jurisdiction, and barring any other red flags, your account should be approved within 24-48 hours in most cases.

Special Considerations for CIP Holders

If you obtained Antigua citizenship through investment, your KYC experience might include some additional nuances. While an Antigua and Barbuda passport via CIP is fully accepted for Bybit verification, the way exchanges handle investment citizenship has evolved in recent years.

Here's what CIP holders should know:

Birthplace Visibility: Your passport typically lists your place of birth. If you were born in a high-risk jurisdiction or one under sanctions, this might trigger additional scrutiny even though your nationality is now Antiguan.

Multiple Citizenship Considerations: If you hold citizenship from a restricted country alongside your Antiguan passport, you must disclose this if asked. Bybit and similar exchanges increasingly gather information about dual citizenship as part of enhanced due diligence.

Residency Reality Check: Many CIP citizens don't actually live in Antigua. If you're a CIP holder residing elsewhere, you must provide your actual residence information. Using Antiguan documents to suggest you live there when you don't could lead to account termination.

Enhanced Due Diligence: Bybit's compliance team may apply additional verification measures to certain Antiguan CIP holders based on risk factors. This isn't discrimination—it's part of their risk-based approach to KYC.

The good news is that Antigua's CIP program is reputable and well-regulated. The country conducts thorough background checks on applicants, which means legitimate CIP holders have already passed significant due diligence. This established track record generally works in your favor during exchange KYC procedures.

Source-of-Funds Verification

A particularly important aspect of KYC for both natural and CIP Antiguans is source-of-funds verification. Bybit, like other exchanges, monitors for large or suspicious transactions and may request proof that your crypto assets come from legitimate sources.

For CIP citizens, this can be especially relevant. You should be prepared to demonstrate that your assets aren't being used to mask questionable activities. The good news is that CIP applicants already compile extensive financial documentation during their citizenship application process. These same records can often be repurposed to satisfy exchange inquiries about fund origins.

Acceptable documentation typically includes:

• Bank statements showing deposits or transfers
• Investment sale confirmations
• Business income documentation
• Inheritance or gift documentation with supporting evidence
• Tax returns from previous jurisdictions

Transparency about your financial history not only helps with exchange compliance but also protects your Antiguan status—remember that citizenship can be revoked in cases of serious fraud or crime.

Recent Regulatory Developments (2024-2025)

Licensing Regime Evolution

Antigua has been steadily operationalizing its digital asset regulatory framework over the past two years. The FSRC has moved from establishing the legal groundwork to actively processing license applications for crypto businesses.

Government officials have promoted Antigua's regime as "one of the most affordable and straightforward in the region," aiming to attract fintech startups and established exchanges. The Antigua and Barbuda Investment Authority, working alongside the FSRC, has streamlined application processes and even explored creating a regulatory sandbox for blockchain innovation.

While no major exchange has yet obtained an Antiguan license, the infrastructure and processes are increasingly in place. This ongoing development suggests that exchanges like Bybit might face stronger encouragement to become locally licensed in the coming years if they wish to continue serving Antiguan customers.

For users, this gradual maturation of the licensing system represents a positive development—it means you'll eventually have access to properly regulated platforms with clear local accountability.

FATF Compliance and International Standards

Antigua's position as a member of the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) continues to influence its crypto regulations. The country has maintained its commitment to uphold FATF recommendations on virtual assets while avoiding any "grey list" or blacklist designation.

Recent efforts have focused on implementing the FATF "Travel Rule," which requires exchanges to collect and share sender/recipient information for crypto transfers. Antigua has also enhanced its overall AML framework, with the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) joining the National Oversight Committee on Financial Action in 2024.

These developments demonstrate Antigua's serious approach to preventing financial crime in the crypto sector. For Bybit users with Antiguan citizenship, this means your passport continues to be associated with a jurisdiction that actively maintains compliance with international standards—a positive factor in KYC evaluations.

CIP Program Enhancements

Recognizing the potential AML risks associated with investment citizenship, Antigua has strengthened oversight of its CIP program. Recent changes include:

• Raising the minimum investment threshold for applicants
• Enhancing cooperation between the Citizenship by Investment Unit and the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU)
• Implementing more rigorous due diligence on applicants

The IMF's March 2025 review commended these efforts while encouraging further strengthening of AML/CFT controls within the CIP framework.

For Antiguans who acquired citizenship through investment, these enhancements help maintain the program's reputation and, by extension, the standing of your Antiguan passport when using exchanges like Bybit. As CIP due diligence becomes more robust, the potential for heightened scrutiny during exchange KYC may actually decrease.

Local Crypto Initiatives

Beyond regulatory frameworks, Antigua has been exploring practical applications of blockchain technology. The country participates in the ECCB's DCash project (a central bank digital currency for the Eastern Caribbean), and some local businesses now accept cryptocurrencies for payment.

There have even been discussions about allowing crypto payments for certain government programs, including the potential for indirect crypto contributions to the CIP through approved intermediaries.

This progressive stance reinforces that Antigua views cryptocurrency as an opportunity rather than a threat—provided it occurs under proper oversight. For users, this supportive environment means you're operating from a jurisdiction that fundamentally understands and embraces the technology underlying platforms like Bybit.

Risks and Challenges for Antiguans Using Bybit

Regulatory Uncertainty

The primary risk for Antiguan users stems from Bybit's unlicensed status in the country. While currently tolerated, this situation could change if:

1. Antiguan authorities decide to more strictly enforce DABA licensing requirements
2. International pressure prompts a crackdown on unlicensed exchanges
3. Bybit itself changes policies regarding which jurisdictions it serves

Any of these scenarios could lead to service disruption with little warning. Other exchanges have exited markets entirely after regulatory shifts, as seen when some platforms withdrew from certain countries following enforcement actions.

To mitigate this risk, maintain awareness of regulatory developments and have contingency plans for your crypto assets. Consider diversifying across multiple platforms or maintaining some holdings in non-custodial wallets where you control the private keys.

Limited Consumer Protection

Because Bybit operates outside Antigua's regulatory perimeter, you lack the consumer protections that would apply to locally licensed financial services. If Bybit were to freeze your account, lose your funds, or become insolvent, you would have to rely on the exchange's own dispute resolution mechanisms and the laws of its operating jurisdictions.

This absence of local recourse creates an additional layer of risk compared to using a locally regulated service. While Bybit maintains internal policies for security and user protection, these aren't directly enforceable by Antiguan authorities.

Compliance Risks for CIP Citizens

For those holding Antiguan citizenship through investment, there are specific compliance considerations. If you attempt to use your Antiguan identity to circumvent restrictions that would apply based on your actual residence or other nationalities, you may face account termination if discovered.

Furthermore, any misuse of financial services that leads to investigations could potentially jeopardize your citizenship status. Antigua can revoke citizenship in cases of fraud or serious legal violations, making it essential to maintain impeccable compliance.

The safest approach is complete transparency about your circumstances. If you're a CIP holder, don't try to obscure your background or residency status—instead, work within the rules while legitimately benefiting from your Antiguan nationality.

AML and Legal Considerations

Even though individual crypto trading isn't outlawed in Antigua, you remain subject to general anti-money laundering laws. Using crypto for illicit purposes could trigger investigations by the Office of National Drug and Money Laundering Control Policy (ONDCP).

Bybit itself monitors for suspicious activity and will report serious violations to relevant authorities. Thus, any misuse of the platform could result in both loss of your account and potential legal consequences.

This isn't meant to alarm legitimate users—ordinary trading and investment activity poses minimal legal risk. But understanding the boundaries helps ensure you stay within safe parameters.

Opportunities and Benefits for Antiguan Citizens

Global Crypto Market Access

Despite the challenges, Antigua's relatively open approach to cryptocurrency provides significant advantages for its citizens. Unlike residents of countries with outright bans or severe restrictions, Antiguans enjoy access to major global exchanges like Bybit without heavy local limitations.

This access enables you to:

• Diversify investments into digital assets
• Use advanced trading products and services
• Participate in token sales or yield-generating programs
• Connect with the broader crypto ecosystem

The ability to freely engage with international platforms puts Antiguan citizens in a privileged position compared to those in more restrictive jurisdictions.

Favorable Tax Environment

One of Antigua's most significant advantages is its tax treatment of crypto investments. The country imposes:

• No capital gains tax
• No personal income tax
• No wealth tax

For Antiguan residents (tax domiciled in the country), this means any profits from cryptocurrency trading on Bybit aren't subject to local taxation. This contrasts sharply with many other jurisdictions, where crypto gains face substantial tax burdens.

For CIP holders specifically, Antigua's willingness to recognize crypto gains as legitimate income for citizenship applications reflects its progressive stance. Your digital asset wealth can be integrated into your financial profile without prejudice, unlike in more crypto-skeptical countries.

Forward-Looking Policy Environment

Antigua's positive approach to digital assets has positioned it among the Caribbean's most innovative jurisdictions. The government's willingness to develop regulatory frameworks rather than impose bans demonstrates a forward-thinking mentality that benefits citizens.

As the FSRC licenses more crypto businesses, Antiguans might soon have locally regulated alternatives to international exchanges like Bybit. These domestic options would combine global connectivity with local oversight, potentially offering the best of both worlds.

This environment creates opportunities not just for investors but also for entrepreneurs. Antiguans interested in building crypto-related businesses have a clear legal framework to operate within, unlike jurisdictions with ambiguous or hostile approaches.

Citizenship Advantages in the Crypto Space

For those who obtained Antigua citizenship through investment, the benefits in the crypto world can be substantial. Many CIP investors come from nations with restricted crypto access due to sanctions or regulation; Antiguan citizenship provides a legitimate gateway to global financial services.

So long as you maintain honest disclosure about your circumstances, your Antiguan nationality can open doors to platforms and services that might otherwise be inaccessible. This represents one of the tangible benefits of citizenship in a jurisdiction that understands and embraces financial innovation.

The key is using this advantage responsibly. By operating transparently and legitimately, you not only protect your own interests but also contribute to Antigua's reputation as a jurisdiction that combines openness with integrity.

Practical Guidelines for Antiguans Using Bybit

KYC Best Practices

To ensure a smooth verification experience on Bybit, follow these practical guidelines:

Document Quality:

• Ensure your passport scan is clear, with all text legible
• Make sure the photo page is fully visible
• Use good lighting for facial verification
• Submit recent utility bills or bank statements (less than 3 months old)

Honesty is Essential:

• Provide your actual residential address, not just a mailbox or nominal address
• Disclose any secondary citizenships if asked
• Never attempt to use VPNs to mask your location while using Bybit
• Be prepared to explain your source of funds if trading significant amounts

For CIP Holders Specifically:

• Be ready for potential additional questions about your background
• Have documentation from your CIP application process available for reference
• Consider proactively providing source of funds documentation for large deposits
• Stay informed about both Antiguan regulations and Bybit's policies

Security Considerations

Given Bybit's status outside Antigua's regulatory umbrella, taking additional security precautions is wise:

Account Protection:

• Use unique, strong passwords
• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) immediately after creating your account
• Consider using a dedicated email address for your crypto activities
• Be vigilant about phishing attempts targeting Bybit users

Asset Management:

• Consider keeping only trading balances on the exchange
• Transfer larger holdings to secure cold storage
• Maintain detailed records of all transactions for tax and compliance purposes
• Set up withdrawal address whitelisting for additional security

Risk Diversification:

• Don't rely exclusively on Bybit—consider accounts on multiple platforms
• Explore both centralized and decentralized exchange options
• Stay informed about insurance coverage (or lack thereof) for exchange-held assets
• Consider custody solutions that offer enhanced protection

Navigating Bybit's Features as an Antiguan

Bybit offers numerous trading products and services. Here's how to approach them as an Antiguan user:

Spot Trading: Straightforward buying and selling of cryptocurrencies is generally accessible to verified Antiguan users without special restrictions.

Derivatives Trading: Access to futures, perpetual contracts, and options may require completing Advanced KYC. Be aware that some jurisdictions restrict derivatives trading—confirm your specific situation before engaging.

Earn Products: Yield-generating products might have additional verification requirements. CIP holders especially should ensure these services aren't restricted based on their country of residence.

Fiat On/Off Ramps: The availability of fiat currency options depends on your location and bank. As an Antiguan, you may need to use regional payment methods rather than those designed for major markets.

Withdrawal Limits: Completing higher KYC tiers increases your withdrawal limits. For substantial trading, plan to complete the most comprehensive verification available.

Staying Compliant with Changing Regulations

The regulatory landscape for crypto continues to evolve rapidly. To stay ahead of changes:

Monitor Official Channels:

• Follow the FSRC website for updates on digital asset regulations
• Check Bybit's announcement page regularly for policy changes
• Join relevant forums or communities focused on Caribbean crypto regulation

Prepare for Potential Changes:

• Have withdrawal plans ready in case regulatory shifts affect Bybit's service to Antiguans
• Keep documentation of your trading history and KYC verifications
• Consider consulting with a local financial advisor familiar with both Antiguan regulations and cryptocurrency

For CIP Holders:

• Stay especially vigilant about changes that might affect investment citizens differently
• Maintain communication with your citizenship consultant about financial compliance matters
• Consider periodic reviews of how your Antiguan status intersects with your crypto activities

Future Outlook: Antigua, Bybit, and Global Crypto Regulation

Potential Licensing Developments

As Antigua's digital asset regulatory framework matures, we may see changes in how exchanges like Bybit interact with the jurisdiction. Several scenarios seem plausible:

1. Formal Registration: Bybit could seek FSRC licensing to formally serve the Antiguan market, especially if the local user base grows significant or if international pressure increases.
2. Regional Hubs: Some exchanges might establish Caribbean regional headquarters in jurisdictions like Antigua, leveraging the regulatory clarity while serving multiple markets.
3. Continued Gray Area: The status quo might persist, with exchanges remaining accessible but unlicensed, especially if enforcement resources remain limited.

For Antiguans, the first scenario would provide the most security, bringing Bybit under local oversight while maintaining service. The second would position Antigua as a crypto hub, potentially creating economic opportunities beyond just access to trading. The third represents the current reality—functional but suboptimal from a consumer protection standpoint.

Global Trends Affecting Antiguans

Broader international regulatory developments will inevitably influence Antigua's approach and Bybit's policies. Key trends to watch include:

FATF Travel Rule Implementation: As more jurisdictions enforce information sharing for crypto transfers, Antiguans may notice more stringent verification requirements for withdrawals and deposits.

Pressure on Investment Citizenship: International organizations continue scrutinizing "golden passport" programs. Any tightening of CIP standards could affect how exchanges treat investment citizens.

Expanding KYC Technology: Advances in identity verification may make KYC more seamless but also more thorough, potentially requiring additional information or verification steps.

Stablecoin Regulation: As regulatory attention focuses on stablecoins, Antiguans using these assets on Bybit may face evolving requirements, especially around USD-pegged currencies.

Staying informed about these trends helps you anticipate changes rather than react to them after implementation.

Antiguan Crypto Ecosystem Evolution

Looking ahead, Antigua's domestic crypto ecosystem will likely continue developing in ways that impact users of international exchanges:

Local Exchange Development: As the licensing framework proves viable, Antigua-based exchanges might emerge, offering an alternative to platforms like Bybit.

Banking Integration: Local financial institutions may develop clearer policies about working with crypto companies and users, potentially easing the fiat-to-crypto pathway.

CBDC Expansion: The DCash project could expand, creating interesting intersections between regulated central bank digital currencies and private cryptocurrencies.

CIP and Crypto Synergies: The relationship between Antigua's citizenship program and its crypto regulatory approach may strengthen, with more explicit provisions for crypto investors seeking citizenship.

These developments would generally benefit Antiguan users, creating a more robust local ecosystem while maintaining international connections.

Connection Between KYC and Antigua's Regulatory Framework

Navigating the intersection of Antigua's regulatory framework and Bybit's KYC policies requires understanding both systems and how they interact. As an Antiguan citizen—whether by birth or investment—you occupy a unique position in the global crypto landscape.

On one hand, you benefit from Antigua's forward-thinking approach to digital assets, which has created a relatively open environment compared to many jurisdictions. Your Antiguan passport provides access to major global exchanges without the restrictions faced by citizens of more tightly regulated or sanctioned countries.

On the other hand, you must recognize the current limitations. Bybit's unlicensed status in Antigua creates a regulatory gap that places more responsibility on you as a user. The absence of local recourse means exercising greater caution and due diligence when using the platform.

For CIP holders specifically, your Antiguan citizenship represents a legitimate gateway to global financial services—provided you maintain complete transparency about your circumstances. Your investment in becoming an Antiguan citizen can yield tangible benefits in the crypto space, but it comes with obligations to uphold the reputation of both your adopted nationality and the platforms you use.

Looking ahead, the evolution of both Antigua's regulatory approach and Bybit's compliance policies will continue shaping your experience. By staying informed, implementing strong security practices, and operating with integrity, you can confidently navigate this dynamic environment while minimizing risks.

Ultimately, the intersection of Antigua and Barbuda's progressive stance and Bybit's global platform creates opportunities worth exploring—with the right knowledge and precautions in place.