How to Buy Ethereum in the UK

CEX.IO offers multiple pathways for UK-based users to buy Ethereum (ETH), as well as 300+ other vetted assets. You can access your CEX.IO account through our web-based browser or crypto mobile app if you prefer on-the-go portfolio management. 

In this guide, we provide detailed guidance on how to buy Ethereum in the UK. Additionally, we cover everything you need to know about available funding gateways, potential fees, and how to utilise other supported services and features, like Spot Trading and CEX.IO Convert. 

How to Buy Ethereum in the UK on CEX.IO

Eligible users in the UK can obtain Ethereum on CEX.IO through a structured process that includes account setup, verification (alongside the appropriateness and suitability tests), and selecting a preferred purchase method. Our platform supports both direct purchases and account funding routes, allowing users to choose how they want to access ETH based on their preferred payment flow.

Here’s how to get started at CEX.IO:

Step 1 – Create an Account

Start by opening an account through the CEX.IO website or mobile app. Provide a valid email address, set a secure password, and select the United Kingdom as your country of residence. After submitting your details, confirm your email using the link or code sent to your inbox.

Once your account is active, you can access the dashboard and prepare for the next steps. You may also enable two-factor authentication in your security settings to add an extra layer of account protection.

Step 2 – Complete Identity Verification (KYC)

To unlock full functionality, including the ability to fund your account and purchase Ethereum, you need to complete identity verification. This involves submitting personal information, confirming your residential address, and uploading a valid ID document, such as a passport or driving licence.

As a UK-based user, you may be asked to answer a short set of questions about cryptoassets, related risks, and your previous experience. This is a standard part of the UK onboarding process and helps assess whether cryptoasset services are appropriate for you before certain features become available.

You will also complete a facial verification check. In some cases, additional questions may appear to meet compliance requirements.

Step 3 – Buy Ethereum

After completing registration and the UK appropriateness assessment, you become eligible to access our Buy Cryptocurrency service, which you can use to add Ethereum to your portfolio, as well as other features available to UK-based users. 

To buy Ethereum through the Buy feature, navigate to the Buy Cryptocurrency section. Select GBP as your payment currency, enter the amount you want to spend, and choose Ethereum (ETH) from the list of available assets.

Click Buy Crypto to proceed. Then, select your preferred payment method, enter the required details, and review the transaction summary before confirming the purchase.

Step 4 – Receive Funds in your Wallet

After the transaction is approved, the purchased Ethereum is credited directly to your CEX.IO Wallet. From there, you can store your ETH, transfer it to another wallet, or use additional features such as Convert or Spot Trading to exchange it for other supported assets.

What can you do with Ethereum in the UK?

Buying Ethereum is only one part of what you can do on CEX.IO. Once you complete the sign up and appropriateness testing, eligible UK-based users receive access to a CEX.IO Wallet. This allows you to store, send, receive, sell, trade, or convert ETH, as well as other supported cryptocurrencies within a single account.

More experienced users can trade Ethereum against other crypto and fiat currencies through Spot Trading, depending on the pairs available in their region. For example, you can exchange ETH for BTC or USDC, or trade ETH for GBP and then withdraw fiat funds using supported cash-out methods, subject to availability.

CEX.IO Convert allows you to exchange Ethereum for other cryptocurrencies or fiat currencies without using the Spot Trading interface. Access the feature, select the fiat currency you want to exchange, determine the crypto asset you wish to receive, and confirm your conversion.

Users in supported regions may also access the CEX.IO Earn program. Through this feature, eligible users can allocate certain assets and potentially receive crypto staking payments over time.

Note: ETH is not currently supported by CEX.IO Staking.

If you decide to move your Ethereum, you can send it to an external wallet address, including cold storage, subject to applicable network fees. Users can also send crypto to other CEX.IO accounts without additional platform fees.