If you use Binance from within the EU, 2026 is a turning point. While reviewing my own accounts, I found that Binance's regulatory situation in France is stuck: no MiCA licence by June 30, 2026. The takeaway is simple — to keep investing with peace of mind, it's better to move to a clearly licensed exchange like Kraken. Here's what's happening, what's at risk, and how to migrate cleanly.
Binance confirmed it would not obtain a MiCA licence in France before June 30, 2026. From July 1, the platform stops onboarding new French clients and progressively restricts its services. France's AMF chief warned that platforms without a MiCA licence will be added to blacklists and may face prosecution if they keep soliciting EU clients.
Note: Binance does operate an EU entity (Malta) that secured a passport in 2025, but that doesn't resolve the situation for French users, which remains the most exposed. For an individual in France, the practical risk is real.
MiCA (Markets in Crypto-Assets) is the EU's unified crypto regulatory framework. A CASP licence obtained in a single member state works like a passport valid across all 27 countries. Crucially, there is no intermediate "pending" status — a platform is licensed, or it isn't. Of the 1,200+ firms registered before MiCA, only a minority converted to full CASP authorisation.
Kraken secured its MiCA licence via the Central Bank of Ireland, letting it operate legally across the EU after July 1, 2026. It's also one of the oldest and most robust exchanges around (launched in 2011), with MiFID permissions for derivatives (CySEC) and a strong security track record. For an EU user who wants to keep investing without regulatory surprises, it's the most natural alternative to Binance.
The Kraken Pro referral programme lets you earn up to €200 (≈ $200) in bonus when your referrals sign up and trade. The conditions: your referral must create a new account via the link, deposit funds and buy a non-stablecoin crypto. Bonuses aren't guaranteed on every referral, but it's an easy way to fund your first purchases. Open a Kraken account and claim the bonus →
Will Binance shut down in France?
Binance won't hold a MiCA licence by June 30, 2026: from July 1, no new French clients and restricted services. Existing clients can withdraw their funds.
Is my crypto on Binance frozen?
No. You can reduce positions and withdraw assets, including after June 30.
Is Kraken really MiCA-licensed?
Yes, via the Central Bank of Ireland, with a passport valid across all 27 EU countries.
How do I claim the €200 bonus?
Open an account via the referral link, deposit funds and buy a non-stablecoin crypto (Kraken Pro terms).
