How to Buy Bitcoin in 2026

Before You Start: What You Need to Know

Buying Bitcoin today has become as simple as opening an online bank account. It takes around 15–30 minutes to complete registration and the verification process, then you can buy BTC by bank transfer or credit card.

Here is what you need:

• A valid identity document (national ID card or passport)
• A selfie with the document
• A phone number for 2FA
• A bank account or credit/debit card to deposit funds
• At least €10 (there is no minimum amount on Binance/Coinbase)

Step 1: Choose the Right Exchange

An exchange is a platform where you can buy, sell and trade cryptocurrencies. It is the equivalent of a stock exchange for crypto. Choosing the right exchange is fundamental: always look for regulated platforms with an excellent reputation.

The Best Exchanges in 2026

Tip: If you are a beginner and want simplicity, choose Coinbase. If you want the lowest fees, choose Binance. If security is your absolute priority, choose Kraken.

Step 2: Register on the Exchange

The registration process is similar on all exchanges. Here is how it works on Binance (the most widely used):

1. Go to binance.com and click "Register"
2. Enter your email and choose a strong password (at least 12 characters, with numbers and symbols — do not reuse passwords from other sites)
3. Confirm your email by clicking the link you receive in your inbox
4. Immediately set up 2FA (two-factor authentication) — do not skip this step, it is essential for the security of your account

For 2FA, use an app such as Google Authenticator or Authy: these are more secure than SMS. Save the backup code in a safe place offline.

Step 3: Complete KYC Verification

All regulated exchanges require identity verification (KYC — Know Your Customer). It is a legal anti-money laundering obligation, not an exchange choice. Without KYC, you cannot deposit/withdraw large amounts.

The typical process:

1. Go to "Verify Account" in the profile menu
2. Select the document type: national ID card or passport (both valid)
3. Photograph the front and back of the document with good lighting
4. Take a selfie holding the document next to your face (as indicated)
5. Upload the photos and wait for verification: from a few minutes to 24 hours

Is your data safe? Regulated exchanges are legally required to protect customer data. Only use well-known, regulated exchanges — do not upload your documents to unknown platforms.

Step 4: Deposit Funds

Once your account is verified, you can deposit funds. You have two main options:

Option A: SEPA Bank Transfer (recommended)

• Advantages: Zero deposit fees on almost all exchanges, suitable for large amounts
• Timing: 1–3 business days (some exchanges credit within hours)
• How to do it: Go to "Deposit" → "Euro" → "SEPA Transfer" → copy the IBAN and reference provided → make the transfer from your bank
• Minimum amount: Usually €10–€20

Option B: Credit/Debit Card

• Advantages: Instant — funds arrive in seconds
• Disadvantages: Higher fees (1.5–3.5%), daily limit
• How to do it: Go to "Deposit" → "Credit/Debit Card" → enter card details → confirm
• Note: Some banks may block payments to crypto exchanges — contact yours first if you have issues

Step 5: Buy Bitcoin

Funds in your account? Now comes the simplest moment. Here is how to buy BTC on Binance:

1. Click on "Buy Crypto" in the main menu
2. Select "Buy with card/bank transfer"
3. Enter the amount in euros you want to spend (e.g. €100)
4. Select BTC as the cryptocurrency to receive
5. Check the exchange rate and fees
6. Click "Buy BTC" and confirm

Alternatively, you can use the "Spot Trading" section to buy at market price or set a limit order at a specific price. For beginners, the "Direct Purchase" method is simpler.

Step 6: Secure Your Bitcoin

Once you have bought Bitcoin, you have two options: leave them on the exchange or transfer them to a personal wallet.

Leave on the Exchange (for small amounts)

For small amounts (under €1,000) or if you are actively trading, it is convenient to keep BTC on the exchange. Modern exchanges have insurance and advanced security systems. But remember: "Not your keys, not your coins" — if the exchange is hacked or goes bankrupt (like FTX in 2022), you could lose everything.

Personal Wallet (for significant amounts)

For amounts above €1,000–2,000, it is strongly recommended to transfer to a personal wallet. You have full control. Options:

• Software wallet (hot wallet): apps like Trust Wallet or Exodus — free, convenient, but connected to the internet
• Hardware wallet (cold wallet): physical devices like Ledger or Trezor — maximum security, cost €60–150

Read more in our guide: How to Protect Your Bitcoin

How Much to Invest? The DCA Strategy

The most common question: how much should I put into Bitcoin? There is no universal answer, but there are solid principles:

• Only invest what you can afford to lose entirely — Bitcoin can drop 80%
• Do not use borrowed money — no mortgages, no loans to buy crypto
• Consider DCA — instead of investing everything at once, buy a small fixed amount every week or month. It reduces the risk of buying at the top
• Diversify — Bitcoin should not be your only investment in your portfolio

Read our full guide: Dollar Cost Averaging: The Professional's Strategy

Crypto Taxation

Tax treatment of crypto gains varies by country. In most European countries, capital gains from cryptocurrency are subject to tax. Keep a record of all purchases and sales and consult a tax professional specialised in crypto for your specific situation.