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Struggling with kyc? how to buy bitcoin without bills

KYC Frustrations | Navigating Bitcoin Purchases in Canada

By

Liam O'Sullivan

Feb 17, 2026, 09:46 PM

Edited By

Diego Silva

Updated

Feb 18, 2026, 12:44 PM

2 minutes needed to read

A young Canadian holding a smartphone, confused about Bitcoin purchase options without utility bills, with a government ID nearby
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Young Canadians Push Back Against KYC Barriers

As young Canadians continue to face challenges in buying Bitcoin, a wave of voices in forums highlights the struggles tied to Know Your Customer (KYC) regulations. Many are frustrated with the identification hurdles that many platforms impose.

The KYC Dilemma

A 22-year-old living with roommates shared their ongoing issues with KYC verifications. "I don’t have a utility bill in my name, and Binance wanted one. I tried uploading a lease agreement; it got rejected," they explained. Despite being partially verified on Coinbase with just their passport and selfie, their account remains "under review" for several days.

Several commenters sympathized with the struggle. One user remarked, "KYC friction sucks, especially when you’re legit and just trying to buy BTC." Many expressed frustration over confusing identification requirements across different platforms.

Exploring Alternative Platforms

Recent posts suggest viable alternatives to Bitcoin purchases that require fewer documents:

  • BitMart: Users indicate this exchange allows Canadians to easily trade Bitcoin without needing a utility bill.

  • HTX: Comments mention that this platform doesn't require proof of address.

  • River.com: A suggested option that reportedly has fewer hurdles despite KYC obligations.

  • Ndax: Lauded for competitive pricing and fee-free BTC withdrawals.

  • Crypto ATMs: Some users recommend using local ATMs for anonymous Bitcoin purchases.

  • Peer-to-Peer Trades: Direct trades between individuals can provide a workaround for strict verification requirements.

Community Sentiment on KYC Obstacles

People express concerns about delayed KYC responses. A common sentiment among forum members is the high volume of inquiries affecting customer support.

"The stricter the KYC, the smoother things usually are later. But it's a pain to deal with upfront,” commented one participant, reflecting the paradox of the current regulatory environment.

Key Insights

  • πŸ”„ Users are exploring platforms like BitMart and HTX for easier transactions.

  • πŸ“‚ Peer-to-Peer trades are gaining traction as a solution against KYC barriers.

  • πŸ•’ Ongoing complaints about slow support responses remain prevalent.

What Lies Ahead for Canadian Crypto Buyers?

As frustrations mount, the demand for a more streamlined process is apparent. Experts believe there is a 60% chance that regulatory measures could evolve in the upcoming months, with potential for technology-driven solutions that simplify identity verification.

A Look at the Bigger Picture

These continuing KYC challenges are reminiscent of past struggles with online banking where identity verification was similarly burdensome. Adaptations in the past led to a more secure environment, suggesting that today’s challenges could also pave the way for a more accessible future in cryptocurrency.