The Travel Rule requires crypto service providers to send identifying information about the sender and the recipient along with a transfer, as banks do for wire transfers. In the EU it has applied to crypto-asset transfers since 30 December 2024, and it is one reason a deposit may be held until sender details are confirmed.
Where it comes from
The FATF, the global standard-setter on money laundering, requires virtual asset service providers to obtain, hold and securely transmit originator and beneficiary information when making transfers — the so-called “travel rule”.[1]
In the EU
The recast Transfer of Funds Regulation, (EU) 2023/1113, applies from 30 December 2024 and extends the travel rule to crypto-asset service providers. The European Banking Authority’s Travel Rule Guidelines apply from the same date.[2]
What it means when you send or receive
- Between two exchanges: the sending exchange passes your details to the receiving one. If they don’t match or are missing, the deposit can wait.
- From your own wallet: you may be asked who sent the funds or to confirm the wallet is yours.
- Held deposits: OKX says a deposit can be locked for Travel Rule checks in regulated regions until the sender’s details are provided.[3]
Travel Rule vs AML check
The Travel Rule is about identity data travelling with a transfer. An AML check is about where the coins came from on-chain. An exchange may apply both to the same deposit. Our glossary has short definitions.
This guide is general information, not legal or financial advice. Rules differ by country and change; check the linked sources.
FAQ
Does the Travel Rule apply to small transfers?
For EU transfers between crypto-asset service providers, sender and recipient information is collected regardless of the amount; extra checks for self-hosted wallets apply above certain amounts. Rules elsewhere differ.
Is my personal data shared publicly?
No. Travel Rule data passes between service providers, not on the blockchain.
Sources
- FATF — Virtual Assets. Checked 4 Nov 2026.
- European Banking Authority (EBA) — The EBA issues 'travel rule' guidance to tackle money laundering and terrorist financing in transfers of funds and crypto assets (30 Dec 2024). Checked 4 Nov 2026.
- OKX (exchange help centre) — Why is my deposit locked? (11 Aug 2026). Checked 4 Nov 2026.