InstaForex is one of the most recognized forex brands in Russia and the CIS region. Since the mid-2000s, it’s been known for sponsoring sports teams, running heavy TV and web ad campaigns, and maintaining one of the most accessible Russian-language trading platforms out there. But when it comes to binary options, the story has changed.
Once upon a time, InstaForex offered binary options through its MetaTrader plugin, targeting Russian users heavily. That product is no longer available—at least not in the original sense. While you can still find references to InstaForex binaries on old blogs and affiliate pages, they’ve quietly removed the product from their current offerings.
So if you’re a Russian trader in 2025 thinking about InstaForex as a binary platform, here’s the reality—what’s still working, what’s gone, and whether it’s worth your attention.
Is InstaForex Legit?
Yes—for forex and CFD trading.
InstaForex operates through multiple entities:
- Instant Trading Ltd, based in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (offshore)
- Instant Trading EU Ltd, previously CySEC-regulated (license since revoked)
As of 2025, InstaForex:
- Does not offer binary options
- Is not regulated by top-tier financial authorities
- Still operates legally for offshore forex/CFD trading
- Remains extremely popular in Russian-speaking countries
So yes, it’s legit—but only for traditional trading.
Binary Options Trading on InstaForex
No longer available.
In the early 2010s, InstaForex offered a binary options module inside MT4, letting traders place simple up/down bets with expiry times ranging from 1 minute to 15 minutes.
That’s all gone now.
You won’t find:
- Any “Options” tab
- Fixed time contracts
- Binary-focused mobile features
- Binary deposit bonuses
- Recent binaries-related training or content
They removed this quietly without making a big public announcement, likely due to regulatory pressure and compliance adjustments.
Why Russian Traders Still Use InstaForex
Even without binary options, Russian traders remain loyal to InstaForex for these reasons:
- Full Russian-language platform and support
- Accepts ruble-based accounts and Russian payment systems
- Long-standing presence in the Russian trading community
- Known brand—not a fly-by-night operation
- Offers a wide range of trading instruments beyond just forex
- Competitive leverage and spreads for high-risk strategies
For traders who’ve outgrown binary options and want to trade forex, metals, indices, or crypto CFDs, InstaForex is still one of the most popular names in the region.
Deposits and Withdrawals
- Minimum deposit: $1 (yes, just one dollar)
- Minimum withdrawal: Varies by method
- Payment methods for Russian traders:
- Bank cards (some Russian banks still work)
- WebMoney, QIWI, Yandex.Money
- Advcash, Perfect Money
- Crypto: BTC, ETH, LTC, USDT
- Local bank transfers (in rubles)
Withdrawal times: Usually within 1–3 business days
Fees: Minimal or none on InstaForex’s side
Their payment system is one of the most Russia-friendly left in 2025, with frequent updates to handle blocked banks or changing crypto gateways.
Bonuses and Promotions
InstaForex is well-known for its long-running bonus programs, including:
- 30% welcome bonus on first deposit
- Bonus without deposit (often ~$100 virtual cash, requires verification)
- Loyalty programs tied to trading volume
- Contests like “Best Trader in Russia” and demo account competitions
But beware: bonuses come with strict conditions. If you accept one:
- Withdrawals may be blocked until volume requirements are met
- Bonus funds are not withdrawable
- Profits from bonus trades might be limited
Bonus offers are clearly listed, and you can choose whether to accept them. But always read the fine print—especially for non-deposit bonuses.
Copy Trading and Social Features
This is one of InstaForex’s strongest points.
They offer a real, working copy trading system called ForexCopy, which lets you:
- Choose traders to follow
- Set custom risk limits
- See historical performance
- Pay commissions based on profits (not deposits)
Russian traders frequently use ForexCopy, and it’s fully integrated into the web platform, not a third-party plugin. It’s a solid system for passive traders, and much more transparent than what you’d find on most binary platforms.
Platform and Mobile Experience
InstaForex offers:
- MT4 and MT5 platforms
- WebTrader (browser-based trading with no downloads)
- Mobile apps for iOS and Android
- Full support for automated trading, EAs, and charting tools
Platform performance is strong. No lag, clean execution, and no gambling-style design like you’d see with Pocket Option or Binomo.
The mobile app supports:
- Deposits and withdrawals
- ForexCopy control
- Real-time charts and technical analysis
- All features available in Russian
Support and Russian Language Access
InstaForex has one of the most robust Russian-language infrastructures:
- Full Russian website and apps
- Live chat, phone, and email support in Russian
- Regional offices (formerly in Moscow, now moved offshore)
- Frequent Russian webinars, blog posts, and market commentary
Customer service is active and reasonably responsive—especially during Russian business hours.
Security and Regulation
Pros:
- Long-running broker with a known reputation
- Strong operational track record
- Transparent deposit/withdrawal systems
- Crypto-friendly for Russians
Cons:
- No regulation from major authorities
- No investor protection
- All licenses are offshore or expired
You’re not trading on a scam platform, but also not under legal protection. Withdraw early, trade carefully.
Should Russian Traders Use InstaForex for Binary Options?
No. The binary options service is gone.
If you’re specifically looking to place 1-minute or 5-minute up/down trades, look at:
- Quotex
- Olymp Trade
- Pocket Option
- GC Option
However, if you’re ready to step into real forex or CFD trading, with full charting, MT4 access, and optional copy trading, InstaForex is still one of the most trader-friendly platforms available to Russians.