Key Takeaway: While American Express (Amex) cards in the UK do not broadly support cryptocurrency purchases, some UK-issued Amex cards can be used to directly buy Bitcoin on select regulated exchanges, though availability varies by platform and may come with higher transaction fees or stricter limits. For most users, regulated platforms like Bitpanda remain the most reliable option. Bitpanda allows users to fund their accounts via alternative payment methods such as bank transfers or trusted third-party providers, making it easier to buy Bitcoin with Amex in the UK indirectly. As an FCA-registered exchange offering access to over 350 digital assets, Bitpanda combines instant GBP deposits and withdrawals, low trading fees, and strong compliance measures to ensure every transaction aligns with UK financial standards.
In this article, we explore the process involved, outlining what’s possible, what’s restricted, and the best alternative methods available.
Can You Buy Bitcoin with An Amex Card Instantly in the UK?
You can’t always buy Bitcoin instantly with an Amex card in the UK, but it’s not completely off the table either. Some regulated crypto exchanges may accept American Express for instant crypto purchases, but this depends on both the platform and the specific Amex card issuer. Even when it works, users often face higher fees and stricter purchase limits compared to debit or bank transfer options. Most major UK exchanges still don’t support direct Amex transactions due to the company’s cautious approach to crypto payments and potential chargeback risks. This means that while it’s technically possible to use American Express to buy Bitcoin, it’s not guaranteed, and even when it goes through, the cost and availability might not make it the best option for frequent or high-value purchases. For many users, the more practical route is funding their crypto account through a bank transfer or an approved payment partner before trading.
What Crypto Platforms allow Bitcoin Purchases with an American Express Card in the UK?
Bitpanda
Bitpanda does accept credit and debit card payments, but support for Amex can vary; some UK-issued Amex cards work for direct Bitcoin purchases, while others may be declined due to Amex’s internal restrictions on crypto transactions. If your Amex card isn’t accepted, you can still fund your Bitpanda account using alternative methods such as bank transfers, Skrill, or other supported payment services, and then buy Bitcoin instantly from your balance. It’s also worth noting that card payments, when available, often come with higher fees compared to bank transfers, and Amex may apply additional charges since crypto transactions are treated as cash-like payments.
MEXC
MEXC is one of the few crypto exchanges where certain UK-issued American Express (Amex) cards can be used to buy Bitcoin directly, but with some caveats. The platform supports Amex as a payment option for verified users, allowing instant card transactions for Bitcoin and other major cryptocurrencies. However, availability depends on Amex’s approval for that specific transaction, as the company still flags many crypto-related purchases for extra review. If approved, users can expect the process to be quick: simply link your Amex card, choose how much Bitcoin you want to buy, and confirm the payment. Still, it’s worth noting that Amex purchases on MEXC often come with higher processing fees compared to debit or bank transfer options, and daily limits may apply.
Coinbase
When it comes to buying Bitcoin with an American Express card, Coinbase offers limited but possible options depending on your card type and location. In the UK, most Amex cards are not supported for direct crypto purchases on Coinbase because the exchange primarily accepts Visa and Mastercard for card payments. However, some users with internationally issued Amex cards or Amex cards linked through payment processors like Apple Pay have reported being able to complete purchases, though this isn’t guaranteed and often comes with higher fees or tighter purchase limits. If your Amex card doesn’t go through, you can still add funds to your Coinbase account using a linked bank account or another supported card.
Gemini
Using an American Express card to buy Bitcoin directly on Gemini isn’t always guaranteed. This is because the platform only supports Visa and Mastercard debit cards, which means your Amex (whether it’s credit, prepaid, or even a UK-issued card) won’t go through for crypto purchases. If available, users can link their Amex card during checkout just like any debit or credit card. It’s smart to double-check Gemini’s payment settings and Amex’s own policy before making a purchase.
How to Buy BTC with Amex Card: 6 Simple Steps
- Choose a trusted crypto exchange
Start by picking a regulated exchange that accepts Amex payments or offers alternative funding methods. Platforms like Bitpanda are FCA-registered and ideal for beginners, offering multiple payment options and full UK compliance. - Create and verify your account
Sign up with your basic details and complete the verification process (KYC). You’ll need to upload an ID and proof of address. - Add your Amex card or choose an alternative funding option
If your exchange supports Amex directly, you can add your card under the “Payment Methods” section. If not, use an indirect option, like transferring funds from a linked bank account or digital wallet (e.g., PayPal or Skrill) that’s funded by your Amex card. - Deposit GBP into your account
Once your payment method is set, deposit British pounds into your exchange wallet. Some platforms offer instant deposits, while others may take a few minutes to process. - Buy Bitcoin (BTC)
Go to the “Buy” section, select Bitcoin (BTC), and enter how much you want to purchase. Review the current rate and confirm your order. Most exchanges will show the total cost, including fees, before you finalise the transaction. - Keep your Bitcoin safe
After buying, you can keep your BTC in the exchange’s built-in wallet or move it to a personal crypto wallet for extra security. For long-term holding, a hardware or cold wallet is your safest bet.
Fees and Costs When Buying Crypto with Amex Card
Bitpanda keeps things simple by including its trading fees directly in the price you see when buying or selling crypto; this is called the premium. For most coins, it ranges between 0.00% and 2.49%, while Bitcoin has a flat rate of 0.99%. Depositing or withdrawing fiat currencies like GBP is completely free across all supported payment methods, and there are no custody or holding fees for keeping your crypto on the platform. The only extra cost you might see is a standard blockchain network fee if you decide to move your crypto to an external wallet.
Funding your account via a bank transfer is free, but using a debit card costs more, around 3.49% per transaction. Withdrawing to a UK or international bank is usually free, though wire transfers can attract a flat fee of about $25. If you’re using the regular Gemini app, expect to pay around 1.49% for instant buy or sell transactions. Traders on the ActiveTrader platform get better rates, with maker-taker fees ranging from 0.00% to 0.40%, depending on trading volume. If you’re sending crypto to an external wallet, you’ll also need to cover network fees, which go to blockchain validators.
Buying or selling crypto on the standard platform interface includes a small spread fee built into the price, while advanced traders pay between 0.4% and 0.6% in maker or taker fees. GBP deposits and withdrawals via Faster Payments are free, but using SWIFT costs about £1. When sending crypto out, you’ll only pay the network fee set by the blockchain. Converting between coins may also attract small charges, and staking rewards come with a platform commission.
FAQs
Can I Buy Crypto with Amex Card without Identity Verification?
You cannot buy crypto with Amex Card without completing identity verification. All FCA-regulated exchanges in the UK require users to undergo full KYC checks to comply with anti-money laundering (AML) laws. This process ensures security, prevents fraud, and confirms your eligibility before any crypto purchase or withdrawal.
What is a Coinbase One Amex Card?
The Coinbase One Amex Card is a premium American Express card designed for Coinbase users, offering cashback in cryptocurrency on everyday purchases. It allows members to earn rewards directly in their preferred digital assets and provides additional benefits such as zero trading fees for eligible users, making it easier to buy crypto using Amex while earning crypto-based incentives.
Is it Quick to buy BTC with an American Express Card?
The experience might vary for different people. While some exchanges process Amex transactions instantly, approval often depends on Amex’s internal review and the exchange’s payment policies. Delays may occur due to security checks or card restrictions.
Conclusion
This guide proves that buying Bitcoin with an Amex card in the UK isn’t impossible, as it just takes the right platform and a little know-how. It shows how the gap between traditional banking and crypto is slowly closing, as financial giants like Amex begin to adapt to the digital age. Before you buy Bitcoin with Amex, make sure to check exchange fees, transaction limits, and Amex’s latest crypto rules to stay on the safe side. Remember, your Bitcoin’s security is everything, so keep it in a secure place and stay up to date on future policy updates.
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