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Prediction Markets101

Is Polymarket legal in Japan?

Regulatory status of Polymarket and Kalshi in Japan, including local gambling law, crypto regulation, tax treatment, and available alternatives.

Prediction Markets 101 editorial team Updated April 16, 2026

Short answer: Polymarket is blocked in Japan as of April 2026. Polymarket does not require KYC at signup — crypto deposits work worldwide. Kalshi is US-only, not available here regardless of local law.

Access status

Polymarket access: Blocked in practice. Japan's gambling law only permits specifically-authorized forms (公営ギャンブル). Financial Instruments Act classifies derivatives strictly.

Kalshi access: US-only.

Local law

Penal Code Articles 185-187 restrict gambling to approved types. FIEA regulates derivatives; FSA has enforcement authority. Crypto is regulated by FSA under Payment Services Act.

VPN usage: Common among residents accessing geoblocked platforms. Polymarket does not require KYC at signup; crypto deposits work without fiat rails.

Locally-available alternatives

  • Kōei gambling (keirin, horse, boat, auto)

Tax treatment

Crypto gains: miscellaneous income at up to 55% marginal.

Local currency: JPY. Tax details are general guidance, not a substitute for a qualified local tax professional.

Accessing Polymarket from Japan

Japan blocks Polymarket directly or via local crypto restrictions. VPN access plus crypto deposits is the typical path where users attempt to access the platform. Understand the local legal risk before doing so.

FAQ

Do I need KYC for Polymarket in Japan?

No KYC is required to sign up or trade on Polymarket. Identity verification triggers only at fiat offramps above ~$10k via MoonPay or Onramper. Deposits and most trading are self-custodial via a Polygon wallet.

What is the tax treatment for Polymarket gains in Japan?

Crypto gains: miscellaneous income at up to 55% marginal.

Can I use a VPN to access Polymarket from Japan?

Technically yes — and it's the typical path where local access is restricted. A non-US IP (or non-restricted-country IP) plus crypto deposits gets you a functional account. Polymarket does not require KYC at signup. At large fiat offramps, a mismatched ID can result in account restriction; users who keep withdrawals to self-custody crypto avoid this. Polymarket's terms of service address VPN use — review them for your own risk tolerance.

Other countries in Asia

Last verified

This page was last verified on April 16, 2026. Law and platform policies can change — we review each country page at least quarterly.

Nothing here is legal advice. For a decision with real money on the line, consult a local lawyer familiar with derivatives or gambling law.