Getting Started with Polymarket in the United Kingdom (2026)
The registration process for Polymarket typically takes around 10 minutes to complete. Essential requirements include a cryptocurrency wallet (MetaMask remains the most widely adopted choice), USDC tokens on the Polygon blockchain, and a valid email account. Initial account creation does not mandate identity verification, though high-volume traders may be required to complete verification procedures at a later stage.
Step 1: Obtain a Cryptocurrency Wallet
Set up MetaMask either as a browser plugin for Chrome or Firefox, or download the standalone MetaMask application for mobile devices. Generate a fresh wallet and carefully preserve your 12-word recovery phrase in a secure location — this phrase represents your sole means of account recovery.
Step 2: Transfer USDC to the Polygon Network
- Acquire USDC through a UK-based crypto platform (such as Coinbase, Kraken, or Revolut)
- Transfer your USDC to your MetaMask address via the Polygon network (ensure you do not use Ethereum mainnet)
- Configure Polygon within MetaMask: use chainId 137 and RPC endpoint https://polygon-rpc.com
Step 3: Establish Your Polymarket Connection
Navigate to polymarket.com and select "Connect Wallet". Choose MetaMask as your connection method (alternatively, use WalletConnect if accessing via mobile). Confirm the connection request within your wallet application. Your Polymarket profile is instantaneously generated based on your wallet's public address.
Step 4: Fund Your Trading Account
Select the "Deposit" option within Polymarket's user interface. Your Polygon-based USDC holdings will become visible. Transfer your desired trading amount — the practical floor for deposits is approximately $1.
Step 5: Execute Your Opening Trade
Explore available political markets, identify your preferred outcome, specify your stake amount, and select "Buy". Your transaction settles rapidly via the Polygon network.
Can UK Residents Access Polymarket?
Polymarket remains fully accessible throughout the United Kingdom using conventional internet browsers. The platform faces no restrictions from UK internet service providers. Polymarket operates without a UKGC authorisation because it functions as an information market rather than a regulated gambling service.