How to Sign Up to Polymarket from the UK (2026)
Getting started on Polymarket typically takes around 10 minutes from initial setup to first trade. The essentials are straightforward: a digital wallet (MetaMask being the most widely adopted choice), USDC tokens residing on Polygon, and a valid email account. Whilst basic account creation requires no identity verification, those trading at higher volumes may eventually face verification requests.
Step 1: Download a Wallet
Obtain MetaMask either as a browser plugin for Chrome or Firefox, or via the MetaMask mobile application. 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: Add USDC to Polygon
- Acquire USDC through a UK-based exchange (such as Coinbase, Kraken, or Revolut)
- Transfer your USDC into your MetaMask wallet using the Polygon network (ensure you avoid sending via Ethereum mainnet)
- Configure Polygon within MetaMask: use chainId 137 and RPC endpoint https://polygon-rpc.com
Step 3: Connect to Polymarket
Navigate to polymarket.com and select "Connect Wallet". Choose MetaMask from the available options (or WalletConnect if you're on a mobile device). Authorise the connection through your wallet interface. Your Polymarket profile is instantly generated using your wallet's public address.
Step 4: Deposit USDC
Select "Deposit" from the Polymarket dashboard. Your Polygon-based USDC holdings will become visible. Transfer your chosen amount into your trading account — the practical minimum stands at around $1.
Step 5: Place Your First Trade
Explore the available markets, pick your desired outcome, specify your stake, and confirm with "Buy". Settlement happens within seconds thanks to Polygon's speed.
Is Polymarket Available in the UK?
Absolutely. UK residents can access Polymarket without geographical restrictions through any standard web browser. The service faces no blocking from UK internet providers. The platform operates under an information-market model rather than a gambling framework, which is why it does not require a UKGC operating licence.