In 2025, buying and selling USDT has become one of the most accessible entry points into the world of digital assets. For users in mainland China, navigating this space safely and efficiently is crucial. This comprehensive guide walks you through the entire process—from registration to cashing out—using OKX, one of the most trusted global cryptocurrency exchanges by trading volume.
Whether you're new to crypto or looking for a reliable method to convert fiat into USDT and back, this step-by-step tutorial ensures clarity, security, and efficiency.
Step 1: Registration on OKX
To begin your journey, you'll need to register an account on OKX. As of 2025, OKX remains the leading platform for stablecoin trading, especially for C2C (peer-to-peer) transactions involving Chinese payment methods.
👉 Start your secure crypto journey with a trusted global exchange.
You can use either a mobile phone number or an email address for registration. For best results, use a browser like Google Chrome or Firefox to open the official site. Avoid third-party links to prevent phishing risks.
During registration, entering a valid referral code may unlock benefits such as fee rebates or digital collectibles. However, always prioritize security over promotional perks.
Once registered, verify your account via SMS or email to proceed to the next stage.
Step 2: Download the OKX Mobile App
After creating your account, download the official OKX app for a smoother trading experience.
- Android users: Scan the QR code from the OKX website using your browser. If blocked, try Firefox.
- iOS users: Since direct downloads aren’t available in some regions, you’ll need an Apple ID registered under a non-restricted region (e.g., U.S.). You can purchase a permanent U.S. Apple ID from reputable vendors.
Once logged in, search for “OKX” in the App Store. Be cautious—only download the app with the correct developer name and high user ratings. The second result often shows the authentic version due to SEO adjustments.
Install and launch the app, then log in with your credentials.
Step 3: Complete Identity Verification
Security and compliance are essential. Before trading, complete identity verification (KYC) to unlock full functionality.
- Tap on the profile icon and select "Verification."
- Choose Level 1 verification first—submit your full name and ID number.
- Proceed to Level 2 by uploading a government-issued ID (such as a national ID card) and a selfie.
- Optionally, complete Level 3 for higher withdrawal limits and enhanced trust.
Verification usually takes just minutes. Once approved, you’ll be able to deposit, trade, and withdraw funds freely.
Step 4: Link Your Payment Methods
To conduct C2C trades using RMB, link at least one local payment method:
- Bank card
- Alipay
- WeChat Pay
Go to C2C Trading > My > Payment Methods > Add New.
For Alipay:
- Enter your Alipay account number.
- Upload a screenshot of your Alipay收款码 (payment QR code).
- Confirm with SMS verification.
Repeat the same process for WeChat or bank cards by entering details like bank name and account number.
Ensure all information is accurate—this builds trust with trading partners and prevents transaction delays.
Step 5: Deposit RMB and Buy USDT
Now it’s time to convert fiat into USDT.
- Go to C2C Trading > Buy Crypto.
- Select USDT as the cryptocurrency.
- Enter the amount (e.g., ¥100).
- Filter sellers by preferred payment method (e.g., Alipay).
Choose a seller with:
- High number of completed orders
- Success rate above 98%
- Responsive chat activity
Tap "Buy", enter the purchase amount, and click "Buy USDT (0% fee)".
A chat window opens:
- Click "View QR Code"
- Open Alipay and scan to pay
- Confirm payment in-app once done
The seller will release USDT to your account upon confirmation—usually within minutes.
Your purchased USDT now resides in your funding account.
Step 6: Trade USDT for Other Cryptocurrencies
Want to invest in Bitcoin or Ethereum? Transfer your USDT to the trading account.
- Tap Assets > Transfer > From Funding to Trading Account
- Select USDT, enter amount, confirm
Then:
- Navigate to Trade
- Search for BTC/USDT or ETH/USDT
- Click a sell price (red box), enter amount in USDT
- Tap "Buy BTC"
The purchased cryptocurrency appears instantly in your trading wallet.
To sell back to USDT:
- Switch to Sell
- Choose a buy price (green box)
- Enter amount, tap "Sell BTC"
Your USDT balance increases accordingly.
Step 7: Cash Out (Withdraw RMB)
Ready to convert USDT back to cash?
- Transfer USDT from Trading to Funding Account
- Go to C2C > Sell Crypto
- Select USDT, choose your payment method (e.g., Alipay)
- Enter amount to sell
Review buyer profiles carefully—prefer those with high trade volume and positive feedback.
Click "Sell", confirm details, and wait for payment.
Once you receive RMB in your Alipay or bank account:
- Confirm receipt in-app
- Release USDT only after verifying funds
Always save transaction records for dispute resolution if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is it legal for mainland users to trade USDT on OKX?
A: While China bans financial institutions from handling crypto transactions, individuals holding digital assets offshore is not explicitly illegal. OKX operates internationally and complies with local regulations outside mainland China.
Q: Are there fees for C2C trading?
A: OKX offers zero fees for C2C trades. However, always check final prices—some sellers may adjust rates slightly.
Q: What should I do if a buyer doesn’t pay?
A: OKX provides escrow protection. If a buyer fails to pay within the time limit, the system automatically cancels the trade and returns your USDT.
Q: How long does identity verification take?
A: Most verifications are processed within 5–10 minutes during business hours.
Q: Can I use WeChat Pay for C2C?
A: Yes. Linking WeChat Pay follows the same steps as Alipay—upload your收款码 and verify ownership.
Q: Is my personal data safe on OKX?
A: OKX uses end-to-end encryption and two-factor authentication (2FA) to protect user data and assets.
With over 20 million users worldwide, OKX continues to lead in innovation, security, and ease of use.
👉 Access advanced trading tools and secure crypto storage today.
This complete cycle—registration, verification, depositing, trading, and withdrawing—empowers beginners and experienced traders alike. By following these steps carefully, you minimize risk while maximizing control over your digital wealth.
Remember: never share passwords or 2FA codes, avoid fake websites, and always double-check URLs before logging in.
Whether you're investing in Bitcoin, diversifying into altcoins, or simply converting between fiat and USDT, OKX provides a seamless gateway into the decentralized economy.
👉 Begin your crypto trading journey securely and efficiently now.