Buy crypto with cash (LATAM region) FAQ

Published on Mar 17, 2026Updated on Apr 10, 20267 min read
This information may not apply to all customers
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Our Mexican and Colombian users are now able to purchase crypto directly using your local currency, in addition to P2P trading and on-chain deposits — and it's fast, simple, and secure. Whether you're using Mexican Peso (MXN) or Colombian Peso (COP), owning crypto is now easier than ever.

How do I buy crypto with cash in Mexico or Colombia?

Below is an example of the process using the Mexican Peso (MXN) as an example:

  1. You can either go to the main page and select the Buy button before selecting the Buy crypto option from the pop-up menu, or select the Deposit option on the Assets page, or you can head directly to the Buy page by selecting Buy under the Manage assets section on the User Center page

    Example of how you can kickstart the whole process via the Buy option on the homepage

    Example of how you can kickstart the whole process via Deposit option on the Assets page

    Example of how you can kickstart the whole process via the Buy option on the User Center page

  2. From the pop-up menu, select Buy Crypto with [Your Local Currency]. For example, MXN (Mexican Peso).

    Select the buy crypto with [Your Local Currency] option

  3. Your Buy page will load up with the selected currency

    How your Buy page will look like

  4. You'll then be redirected to a page that'll prompt you to set up your virtual account. Our system will kickstart the set up process so you can complete your deposit. This usually takes 2–3 minutes. Follow the instructions to complete this one-time setup process.
    Note: this is only applicable to first-time use.

    Select OK on the set-up announcement page

  5. After the process is completed, you'll be redirected back to the Buy page. Select Buy [Crypto Type] and select your preferred crypto. For example, USDT, BTC, ETH. You may proceed with your local bank transfer under the Pay with [payment method] option, as it is the only option available at this time.

    Select your crypto

  6. After completing the setup, key in your preferred amount besides your local payment method on the Buy page. Select the Buy [Crypto] button to proceed.

    Proceed to select the Buy [Crypto] option

  7. The Payment Instructions page will appear.

    • Copy the provided banking code/reference number.

    • Transfer the required amount from your bank account.

    • Once done, slide the payment confirmation button to confirm your purchase.

      Slide the payment confirmation button

  8. Your order status will show as “Pending” while the transaction is being processed. Once completed, the status will update to “Order Completed” in your Order History.

    Once completed, your status will be showing “Order Completed” in the Order History page

    You can access the Order History page through the selection of Sheet icon on the Buy page.

    View your order by selecting the Sheet icon
    Note: Please complete your payment within the 10-minute order window to avoid automatic cancellation.

FAQ

How many times do I need to go through the virtual account set up process?

Transfer details will need to be set up separately for each fiat currency. So if you plan to purchase crypto using MXN and COP you'll need to complete the setup three times — once for each currency.

Can I submit a refund request for my purchase?

  • For Mexican users: if the amount you paid is more than your order total, the excess amount will be automatically refunded to your original payment method within 1–2 working days.

    If the amount you paid is less than your order total, the full payment will be automatically refunded to your original payment method within 1–2 working days.

    There’s no further action required from your side.

  • For Colombian users: you can request a refund if you paid less than the required order amount, or your order has been completed and you’d like to refund the remaining balance of the amount paid.

Once you’ve submitted the required details, your refund will be processed within 1–2 working days.

Do I have a buy limit on buying crypto with cash?

Your 30-day buy limit is set at $10,000 USD. If you have hit that limit, you'll need to lower your buy amount to continue purchasing crypto with cash, or wait until your limit resets.

Can I place another order while I still have an incomplete order?

Please note that you can only have one pending order at a time. Complete your current payment first before placing a new order.

I'm a Mexican/Colombian user but I can't see the new gateway. Why?

You'll need to update your app to version 6.165 or above. If you're already on the latest version and still can't see it, please reach out to us via OKX Assistant and we'll follow up.

I've already made the payment but haven't received my crypto yet. Why?

Crypto transfers are processed via the blockchain network and typically take approximately 10–20 minutes to arrive. Please wait and check again after that window.