Is Pocket Option Legal in India in 2026?

Pocket Option, regulated by the Mwali International Services Authority (MISA) with license number T2023322, operates legally in India, albeit without direct regulation by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). While trading Forex and Binary options face restrictions under Indian law, specifically the Foreign Exchange and Management Act (FEMA), Pocket Option remains accessible to traders in India.

About Pocket Option broker

Profitabilityup to 92%

Minimum Deposit$5

Trading Assets

Forex Indices Stocks Commodities Cryptocurrency

Trading Platforms

MetaTrader 4 MetaTrader 5 Quadcode

4.1/5

RegisterTrading binary options carries high risks. You may lose all invested fundsRead Pocket Option review

About Pocket Option

Founded in 2017

Countries of registration:

Regulators:

MISA

4.1/5

Pocket Option review

RegisterTrading binary options carries high risks. You may lose all invested funds

Profitabilityup to 92%

Minimum Deposit$5

Countries of registration:

Regulators:

MISA

Trading Assets

ForexIndicesStocksCommoditiesCryptocurrency

Trading Platforms

MetaTrader 4

MetaTrader 5

Quadcode

compare Pocket Option options types

Pocket Option is a binary options and CFD broker that could be suitable for a wide range of traders, from beginners to experienced professionals. For newcomers, the extensive educational materials and analytics will be helpful, while seasoned traders will appreciate the variety of trading platforms and assets. However, caution is advised due to the weak regulation and high spreads on CFDs. If you are willing to accept certain risks and limitations, Pocket Option might be a good choice.

Pros and Cons of Pocket Option

Pocket Option reviews from Indian traders

4.1 out of 5

Based on 10 reviews

What traders write about in reviews of Pocket Option?

All TopicsWithdrawal of Funds (6)General Impression (4)Account Funding (3)Support Service (3)Demo Account (2)Bonuses (2)Trading Platform (2)Mobile Application (1)Spread and Commission (1)

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4.1 из 5

На основе 10 отзывов

О чем пишут трейдеры в отзывах о Pocket Option?

All TopicsWithdrawal of Funds (6)General Impression (4)Account Funding (3)Support Service (3)Demo Account (2)Bonuses (2)Trading Platform (2)Mobile Application (1)Spread and Commission (1)

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NFP

Nisha from Pune India

"Convenient, but I keep the balance small"Pocket Option has been reasonably stable for me, but it’s not the kind of place I’d park big capital. The interface is simple, orders open/close without freezing, and the history section is detailed enough to review mistakes. I couldn’t find strong regulatory info, so I keep my balance small and withdraw regularly. For funding, Mastercard worked with a minimum around the $20 mark, and the deposit showed up instantly. I also used Perfect Money once (cheaper than cards for me) and it was instant too. Overall it’s convenient, just remember the costs may come from your bank’s conversion, not from Pocket Option itself.

General ImpressionAccount Funding

December 22, 2025

A

Ananya India

"Mobile app is handy, but not perfect for spikes"Most of my trades are from the Pocket Option mobile app during commute. Charts load fast on 4G, and switching between pairs is smoother than the web version. I like the quick time-frame buttons and the alert/notification when a trade closes. The downside: the app logs me out every few days, and biometric login isn’t always consistent, so I end up typing the password again. General impression after ~2 months: execution is ok for small tickets, but in fast moves (news spikes) the price can jump and the entry isn’t always at the level you tapped. For learning and casual trading it’s fine, but I wouldn’t rely on it for precise scalping.

Mobile ApplicationGeneral Impression

December 3, 2025

RM

Rohit Mehra India

"Fast crypto deposit, slower withdrawals"Started with a small test on Pocket Option because they allow crypto funding. I funded with USDT TRC20 (min $10) and it hit my balance in about a minute. Later I tried a Visa top-up and it went through, but my bank showed its own FX markup. Trading itself is straightforward, but I treat it as short-term speculation, not a “set and forget” account. My first withdrawal (USDT TRC20 again) was approved the next day after they asked for basic verification. The platform didn’t add a withdrawal fee, only the network fee on the wallet side. What I like: clear status updates in the cabinet. What I don’t like: withdrawals aren’t instant like deposits.

Account FundingWithdrawal of Funds

November 20, 2025

SK

Sahil K. India

"Support saved me from a wrong network withdrawal"Had an issue with a withdrawal request on Pocket Option because I pasted a USDT address but selected the wrong network. I contacted support via the in-platform chat and got a human reply in about 5 minutes, not a bot loop. They cancelled the pending request and explained how to redo it with TRC20, plus reminded me that approvals can take up to a couple of days. After re-submitting, the withdrawal was processed the following afternoon. The only delay was the manual check; once approved, the crypto transfer arrived quickly. Support was polite, but I wish they showed the network selection more clearly to avoid mistakes.

Support ServiceWithdrawal of Funds

November 8, 2025

T

trade_bhai India

"Demo is useful; bonus terms are the trap"I used Pocket Option mainly for practice first. The demo account is easy to find, and the virtual balance can be reset anytime, which helped me test 1–5 minute setups without fear. Demo prices felt close to live, but live obviously has more “noise” when volatility hits. They offered me a deposit bonus in the cashier. I tried it once and then regretted clicking it: the bonus comes with turnover conditions, and until you meet them it can complicate withdrawing profits. Now I keep bonuses turned off and just manage my own risk. If you’re new, read the bonus rules line by line before accepting.

Demo AccountBonuses

October 18, 2025

R

Rohan India

"Instant IMPS Payout - No Sweat"After a midnight EUR/JPY spike I withdrew the full profit via IMPS; funds landed in my SBI account in under two minutes. Charts refresh in real-time and PnL updates instantly, so I never feel ‘blind’ between trades. Live chat solved my only KYC query in five minutes - solid first impression.

Withdrawal of FundsTrading PlatformSupport ServiceGeneral Impression

July 19, 2025

PD

Priya Dalvi India

"Great Starter Broker for Newbies"I opened a Pocket Option demo on Monday, graduated to a $20 real account by Friday, and closed the week +$18. The interface is clean, ∆-charts load fast on 4G, and minimum trade is ₹75 - perfect for learning without risking a paycheck.

Demo AccountTrading Platform

July 18, 2025

AM

Ankit Mehra India

"UPI Deposits in Seconds, Spreads Could Be Tighter"Topped up twice via UPI QR - each deposit confirmed before I could reopen the chart. Withdrawals through Paytm cleared the same afternoon. Only gripe: major FX pairs widen to 2 pips around news; would love sub-1 pip like some rivals. Still, for sheer payment convenience it’s hard to beat.

Account FundingWithdrawal of FundsSpread and Commission

July 12, 2025

S

Sahana India

"Crypto Cash-Out Took Two Hours - Thumbs Up"Shifted profits to USDT on TRC-20; network fee was zero and the coins hit my KuCoin wallet in about two hours. Over 30 crypto assets to choose from and a bonus booster bumped my balance by 25%. Nice add-on for weekend scalping.

Withdrawal of FundsBonuses

July 5, 2025

K

Karthik India

"IMPS Withdrawal Delay - but Support Fixed It"My ₹14 k IMPS withdrawal showed ‘completed’ yet the money took three days to arrive. Telegram support finally asked for a selfie re-verification and pushed the payment through. Good outcome, but the extra hoops knocked a star off my score.

Withdrawal of FundsSupport ServiceGeneral Impression

June 30, 2025

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Can Indians use Pocket Option for binary options trading?

Indians can trade on Pocket Option, thanks to its online presence and regulation under the Mwali International Services Authority (MISA) via Infinite Trade LLC. However, it's important to note that while India does not explicitly ban the use of international binary options trading platforms, such trading operates in a regulatory grey area. The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) does not regulate these offshore platforms, which means traders in India might not have local legal protections or recourse in disputes. Binary options and CFD trading fall under the scrutiny of the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA), guiding how Indian residents can participate in foreign exchange markets. Therefore, while traders from India can technically use Pocket Option, they should be aware of the potential legal and financial risks involved in trading with an offshore broker not regulated by Indian authorities. Proceeding cautiously and being fully aware of the regulatory environment is advisable for traders from India considering Pocket Option.

Are binary options legal in India?

The legality of binary options trading in India is enveloped in regulatory ambiguity. Per the most recent guidelines, trading binary options is incompatible with Indian regulatory frameworks. The activity falls into a complex legal territory since India's primary financial regulators, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), have not explicitly authorised trading binary options.

This stance is primarily motivated by the high-risk nature of binary options and the prevalence of fraudulent schemes associated with them globally. The Indian regulatory bodies aim to safeguard Indian investors from the potential financial jeopardy and scams often accompanying trading binary options.

Notwithstanding the domestic prohibition, traders in India might encounter opportunities to engage in binary trading through platforms operated by offshore brokers. Such undertakings, however, place traders in a precarious position due to the absence of regulatory oversight from Indian authorities. This means that in disputes, fraud, or financial losses, Indian traders' options for legal recourse may be severely limited or non-existent.

Residents of India must comprehend these legal constraints and the risks of navigating trading via unregulated entities. The Indian government and financial regulatory institutions persistently discourage participation in binary options trading and urge individuals to exercise utmost caution with investments, especially in platforms lacking apparent regulatory compliance.

How can Indians safely trade binary options?

For Indians intrigued by the prospect of trading binary options, it's essential to approach this market with caution and awareness, especially given the regulatory grey areas in India. Here are steps Indian traders can take to engage in trading as safely as possible:

1. Understand Local Regulations. Familiarize yourself with the legal landscape in India regarding binary options. The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) does not regulate binary trading, making it a non-sanctioned activity.

2. Select Regulated International Brokers. Opt for brokers that are regulated by credible authorities in their countries. Look for the UK's Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) or the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) oversight. However, these do not offer the same protections as Indian regulatory bodies.

3. Research Broker Reputation. Investigate the reputation of any broker you consider. Online reviews, trader forums, and regulatory body alerts can provide insights into a broker's reliability and ethics.

4. Acknowledge the Risks. Trading binary options is inherently risky and speculative. Only invest what you can afford to lose and be aware of the risk of fraud in unregulated markets.

5. Utilize Demo Accounts. Reputable brokers often offer demo accounts. Use these to familiarize yourself with the trading platform and to practice strategies without financial risk.

6. Seek Legal Guidance. Given the complex legal status of binary options in India, consulting with a legal expert who understands the nuances of Indian financial law could be beneficial.

7. Exercise Caution with Offshore Brokers. While offshore brokers might be accessible, they come with increased risk. Such platforms may lack the security and transparency offered by locally regulated entities.

8. Educate Yourself. Use educational resources to understand binary options, market analysis, and effective trading strategies.

9. Start trading with Small Investments. Begin trading with small amounts to limit potential losses as you learn the ropes.

10. Stay Updated on Regulations. Keep abreast of any changes in Indian regulations regarding binary options trading and international regulatory developments that might affect Indian traders.

By adhering to these guidelines, traders can navigate the complexities of online trading in India with a greater degree of safety. However, it's crucial to remember the high-risk nature of this investment and the potential for loss, especially when dealing with platforms outside the purview of Indian regulatory protections.

Alternatives to Binary Trading in India

As binary options trading is restricted and carries significant risk in India, traders may consider other established financial markets that offer greater transparency and control:

• Forex Trading: The foreign exchange market provides round-the-clock trading opportunities across global currencies, and many market participants rely on Forex trading brokers in India that offer access to international liquidity and modern trading platforms.

• CFDs (Contracts for Difference): CFD trading allows traders to speculate on price movements across a wide range of markets without owning the underlying assets, and traders often choose CFD brokers in India that support multi-asset trading with competitive conditions.

• Stock Trading: Investing directly in company shares remains a widely used strategy for Indian investors aiming to build diversified portfolios over time.

Together, these alternatives provide practical options for traders in India seeking exposure to financial markets beyond binary options.

FAQ

Can you make money on Pocket Option?

Yes, making money on Pocket Option through binary trading is possible. However, success depends on your trading strategy, financial market knowledge, and risk management. It's important to remember that all trading involves risk, and there's a potential for loss.

How to open a trading account on Pocket Option?

To open a trading account on Pocket Option, visit the Pocket Option website, click the "Sign Up" button, and fill in the required information. You may need to verify your account through email or mobile number verification.

What is the minimum deposit for Pocket Option?

The minimum deposit for Pocket Option is just $5. This low entry threshold makes it accessible for traders of all capital levels, from beginners to experienced traders looking to test new strategies with minimal financial risk.

How to deposit money to Pocket Option?

To deposit money to Pocket Option, log into your account, navigate to the "Finance" section, select "Deposit," choose your preferred payment method, and follow the instructions to complete the transaction.

How to use Pocket Option?

Using Pocket Option involves registering for an account, making a deposit, selecting the asset you wish to trade, choosing your investment amount, predicting the direction of the asset price, and placing your trade.

How to withdraw money from Pocket Option?

To withdraw money from Pocket Option, go to your account's "Finance" section, click "Withdrawal," select your preferred withdrawal method, enter the amount, and submit your request.

What are binary options?

Binary options are trading instruments that allow you to speculate on the price movement of various assets, such as currencies, stocks, and commodities, with a fixed return and time frame.

Is Pocket Option a scam or legit?

Pocket Option is operated by Infinite Trade LLC, registered in Costa Rica, and regulated by the Mwali International Services Authority (MISA). While the regulatory jurisdictions of Costa Rica and Mwali may not be as widely recognized for financial regulation, Pocket Option's operation under these authorities provides a level of regulatory oversight. Traders should conduct their research to assess the platform's reliability.

Why is a demo account important with Pocket Option?

A demo account is essential with Pocket Option because it allows traders to practice and develop their trading strategies without risking real money. It's a valuable tool for beginners to gain experience and for experienced traders to test new strategies.

Can you use MT4/MT5 with Pocket Option?

Yes, Pocket Option offers web versions of MetaTrader 4 and 5, providing a range of functionalities suitable for traders of all levels. The platform's proprietary interface and the technical analysis tools available on MT4 and MT5 cater to various trading needs.

Which trading platform is best in India?

Determining the best trading platform depends on your specific needs, including the type of trading, tools required, and level of support. For a comprehensive comparison of options, visit our top Forex Brokers in India.