Can You Add a Referral Code After Sign-Up?

On most exchanges, no: the code has to go in when you create the account. A few make exceptions. MEXC lets you link a referrer yourself within 30 days of registering, Crypto.com lets you switch to a referral within 14 days of KYC approval if you haven't traded, and BingX accepts a code until your first deposit or trade. Bybit allows it only for affiliate codes on bybit.com, within 14 days.

Exchange by Exchange

The table uses the same rules as our exchange pages, checked against each exchange's own help pages.

The Exceptions in Detail

MEXC: self-service referrer linking within 30 days of registration, for main accounts only. The link is permanent, so make sure you have the right code first.

Crypto.com: within 14 days of KYC approval and before your first trade, from the referral dashboard. Doing it moves you from the Welcome Bonus to the referral programme; you can't have both.

BingX: through "My Referrer" until your first deposit or Buy Crypto purchase, first trade or first invite.

Bybit: on bybit.com only affiliate codes can be added, within 14 days of registration; ordinary user codes can't. On bybit.eu nothing can be added or changed after sign-up, and bybit.com codes are rejected there as invalid.

Why the Window Closes Early

The referral is attached to the account when it's created, and the referral tasks are counted from that point (from sign-up at Bybit and OKX, from KYC approval at Crypto.com). That's why the exchanges that allow a late code still close the window early, usually at your first trade or deposit.

Before You Try to Add One

Don't open a second account just to use a code. OKX, for example, lists registering multiple accounts as abuse that can cost you the reward.

Check whether you've already traded or deposited: at Crypto.com and BingX that ends the window.

If Someone Else's Code Was Filled In

OKX notes that a referral link opened on your device in the last 30 days can stay attached and prefill the code. Sign up in a private browser window and check the code field before you submit.