How to Register on OKX with an Overseas Phone Number
Registering on OKX with an overseas phone number is essentially the same as using a local number—the key is selecting your phone number's country in the "Country/Region" dropdown, and the system will automatically match the international dialing code. The critical requirement is that your phone number must be able to receive international SMS verification codes; otherwise, registration cannot be completed. Below are step-by-step instructions and common questions.
I. Step-by-Step: Filling in the Overseas Phone Number
OKX requires both a phone number and an email address to be bound during registration—this rule applies to all users worldwide.
Step 1: Select Country/Region
Open the OKX App or website and go to the registration page. In the "Country/Region" dropdown, choose the country where your phone number is registered. For example, select "United States" for a US number, or "United Kingdom" for a UK number.
Step 2: Verify Auto-Filled Country Code
After selecting the country/region, the dialing code in front of the phone number field will automatically match. For instance, choosing "United States" will show "+1." If it does not auto-populate, manually pick the correct country code from the list.
Step 3: Enter Your Phone Number
Type your mobile number in the field after the country code. Important: Do not include the country code again, and remove any leading "0"—international format requires dropping the initial "0."
Step 4: Complete Verification
Tap "Get Code," enter the 6-digit verification code sent via SMS, then proceed to verify your email and set a password.
Prerequisites
Have a phone number registered in your own name that can receive international SMS.
Have an email address that can receive messages (must be bound simultaneously during registration).
Ensure your country of residence is not on OKX's restricted service list. Eligibility is based on your place of residence, not your nationality.
Common Reasons for Failure
Not receiving the SMS verification code – the most frequent issue with overseas phone numbers. Possible causes include:
Incorrect phone number format (including the country code twice or keeping the leading "0").
Mobile carrier blocks international SMS; some plans disable this feature by default.
SMS-blocking apps or system filters active on the phone.
Prolonged power-on may affect signal reception; try restarting the device.
Phone number already registered – OKX allows only one account per phone number. If you see this message, check whether you previously registered, or contact customer support.
Risk Reminders
Phone number must be under your own name: Unverified accounts cannot perform core operations like buying/selling crypto or depositing/withdrawing funds. Additionally, the identity verification (KYC) process requires that the phone number matches your identity documents.
Cost of changing phone numbers: If your overseas number becomes inactive, replacing it will require facial recognition verification, and withdrawals will be locked for 24 hours after the change.
FAQ
Q: After registering with an overseas number, can I use a Chinese ID for KYC verification?
A: KYC verification uses the identity document you submit and is not forcibly linked to your phone number's country. However, the "Country/Region" (place of residence) selected during registration must be consistent with the information on your proof of identity, or it may affect the approval rate.
Q: What alternatives are there if I can't receive the SMS code?
A: In the OKX App, tap "Can't receive code" to choose a voice verification call (the system will call and read out the code). Alternatively, you can use another verified method, such as email or Google Authenticator, to complete verification.
Q: Can I change my phone number to a local one after registration?
A: Yes. Go to Security Settings > Phone Verification and follow the process to replace the number. Note that withdrawals will be locked for 24 hours after the change.
Final confirmation:
Open the OKX registration page, correctly select the country/region matching your phone number, confirm the country code is correct, enter your phone number without any leading zeros or extra codes, and hit "Get Code." If you receive the code and complete registration, the number was entered correctly. If not, first check the format, then try the voice verification as a backup.
