Cryptocurrency exchange Bybit will discontinue services for residents of Japan starting in 2026.
The company said the withdrawal will be implemented through gradual account restrictions.
Japanese residents will be identified and restricted on a rolling basis.
Users incorrectly classified as Japanese residents may complete additional identity checks.
Bybit is not registered with Japan’s Financial Services Agency.
Japanese law requires exchanges serving residents to obtain local regulatory approval.
If you're a resident of Japan, please note that starting from 2026 your account will be subject to gradual restrictions.
Bybit said.
The exchange added that affected users will receive further updates in future communications.
Bybit frequently ranks among the world’s largest crypto exchanges by trading volume.
The platform processed more than four billion dollars in trades over twenty four hours.
The decision follows earlier measures limiting Bybit’s exposure to Japan.
In October, the exchange paused new user registrations in the country.
Bybit cited ongoing discussions with the Financial Services Agency at the time.
Japan enforces one of the world’s strictest crypto regulatory frameworks.
In February, the FSA requested app stores suspend downloads of unregistered exchanges.
Bybit was included among five platforms targeted by the request.
Other exchanges named included MEXC Global LBank KuCoin and Bitget.
Regulators continue to prioritise consumer protection and licensing compliance.
Industry figures say regulatory bottlenecks may discourage innovation domestically.
Maksym Sakharov warned strict rules risk pushing crypto development abroad.
Bybit declined to comment further when contacted by media outlets.
Despite the Japan exit, Bybit is expanding in other jurisdictions.
The exchange recently reentered the United Kingdom market.
UK services include spot trading and peer to peer transactions.
Operations are conducted under a promotions approval from Archax.
Bybit does not currently hold its own UK registration.
The company also expanded regulatory coverage in the Middle East.
Bybit secured a virtual asset licence from the UAE regulator.
Approval followed an earlier in principle authorisation.
The developments highlight diverging global regulatory approaches.
Exchanges continue balancing compliance with international expansion strategies.