You’ve heard about Bitcoin for years, hesitated, and now you’re ready to take the plunge. But how do you buy Bitcoin (BTC) safely online? This guide covers everything from choosing an amount to invest, selecting a secure platform, minimizing fees, and avoiding scams.
Step 1: Decide How Much Bitcoin to Buy
Start Small with Fractional Bitcoin
You don’t need to buy a whole Bitcoin (currently worth tens of thousands of dollars). Instead, invest in fractions (e.g., 0.001 BTC) with an amount you’re comfortable losing.
Pro Tip:
👉 Learn how to invest wisely in crypto
Set a Target Purchase Price
Consider using a limit order to buy BTC at a specific price (e.g., $40,000 per BTC). Alternatively, practice Dollar-Cost Averaging (DCA)—buying fixed amounts weekly/monthly to average costs.
Step 2: Choose a Secure Crypto Exchange
Prioritize Regulated Platforms (PSAN)
In France, opt for PSAN-registered exchanges (e.g., Binance, eToro, Bitpanda) approved by the AMF (Financial Markets Authority). These platforms meet strict security and anti-fraud standards.
Top Crypto Exchanges:
| Platform | Key Features | Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Bitvavo | 300+ cryptos, staking, low fees | 0.25% max |
| OKX | 284 cryptos, NFTs, staking | 0.1% max |
| Binance | Global leader, 500+ cryptos | 0.1% max |
For Beginners: Coinhouse (French-based) offers guided support but higher fees.
👉 Compare top crypto platforms
Step 3: Fund Your Account
Best Method: Bank Transfer
- Lowest fees (often free).
- Avoid credit cards (3–5% transaction fees).
Alternatives:
- PayPal (eToro supports this).
- Deposit other cryptocurrencies (for advanced users).
Step 4: Execute Your Bitcoin Purchase
Simple Method (“Market Order”)
- Select your funding currency (e.g., EUR).
- Enter the amount to invest (e.g., €100 = ~0.00458 BTC).
- Confirm the transaction.
Advanced Method (“Limit Order”)
Set a target price (e.g., buy BTC at €36,000) and expiration (e.g., 7 days).
Step 5: Plan Your Exit Strategy
Decide When to Sell:
- Take-profit: Sell at +20% gains.
- Stop-loss: Sell if BTC drops -30%.
- Long-term hold: Keep for years if you believe in Bitcoin’s potential.
Warning: Crypto markets are volatile—avoid emotional decisions!
FAQs
1. Where can I buy Bitcoin?
Use regulated exchanges like Binance, Bitvavo, or Coinhouse.
2. What’s Bitcoin’s price today?
It fluctuates constantly. Track live prices on exchanges.
3. Is Bitcoin a good investment?
High-risk, high-reward. Only invest what you can afford to lose.
4. Are Bitcoin profits taxed?
Yes—France imposes a 30% flat tax on crypto gains.
5. How do I buy €100 of Bitcoin?
Follow Steps 1–4 above—the process is the same for any amount.
6. Is Bitcoin legal in France?
Yes, but use PSAN-registered platforms for compliance.
Final Tip: Secure your BTC in a hardware wallet (e.g., Ledger) if holding long-term.