IC Markets Account Setup Guide
Start trading on true ECN spreads. A complete step-by-step walkthrough for opening and verifying your IC Markets account on MT4, MT5, or cTrader.
Table of Contents
Account Types at IC Markets
IC Markets recognises that traders have diverse goals. The broker offers a free demo account and three live account types — each suited to different trading styles and experience levels.
The demo account expires after 20 days of inactivity on MT4/MT5, and 90 days on cTrader. You can add unlimited virtual funds to practice your strategy.
| Account | Platform | Min. Spread | Commission | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | MT4 / MT5 | 0.8 pips | None | Beginners |
| Raw Spread (MT) | MT4 / MT5 | 0.0 pips | $7 roundtrip | Scalpers / EA |
| Raw Spread (cTrader) | cTrader | 0.0 pips | $6 roundtrip | Day Traders |
| Feature | Available |
|---|---|
| Demo Account | ✓ |
| Islamic (Swap-Free) Account | ✓ |
| ECN Account | ✓ |
| Professional Account | ✓ |
| MAM/PAMM Account | ✗ |
Minimum Account Deposit Requirement
All three live account types at IC Markets require a minimum deposit of $200. This is a reasonable barrier that keeps the platform accessible to most traders worldwide.
All accounts support micro lots (0.01 lots = 1,000 units), letting you manage risk precisely even with a small balance. Supported payment methods include Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, Neteller, Skrill, and bank wire transfers.
Tradable Instruments
IC Markets provides access to over 2,250 instruments across the CySEC entity and 1,800+ via the ASIC-regulated arm. All instruments are traded as CFDs.
| Market | Available | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Forex Pairs | ✓ | 61+ major, minor & exotic pairs |
| Commodities | ✓ | Gold, Silver, Oil & more |
| Indices | ✓ | US30, NAS100, SPX500 etc. |
| Cryptocurrencies | ✓ | BTC, ETH, XRP & 20+ coins |
| Stocks | ✓ | 1,700+ global equities |
| Bonds & Futures | ✓ | US Treasury, Eurodollar etc. |
Registration Process — Takes About 5 Minutes
Opening a demo account with IC Markets is fast and straightforward. Follow these steps to create your profile and start practising immediately.
Visit the IC Markets Registration Page
Click the "Start Trading" or "Open an Account" button on the IC Markets homepage. This takes you directly to the sign-up form. You can use our affiliate link below to get started.
Fill in Your Personal Details
Enter your first name, last name, email address, country of residence, and phone number. All fields are required to proceed.
Choose Account Ownership Type
Select whether you are registering as an Individual, a Corporate entity, or as a Joint account holder. Most retail traders will choose Individual.
Select Your Trading Platform & Account Type
Choose between MT4, MT5, or cTrader. Then select your preferred account type (Standard or Raw Spread) and your base currency.
Review Details & Accept Terms
Review your personal information, select a security question and answer (remember it — you may need it for identity verification), then read and agree to IC Markets' Terms and Conditions.
Confirm Your Email Address
After submitting, IC Markets will send a confirmation email. Click the link in the email to verify your address and set your account password.
Start Trading on Your Demo Account
Once your password is set, your IC Markets dashboard is live. You can immediately start trading with your demo account and explore all platform features.
Account Verification (KYC) — Takes About 10 Minutes
To deposit real funds and trade live, you must complete IC Markets' Know Your Customer (KYC) verification. This is standard practice for all regulated brokers.
Complete the Financial & Experience Questionnaire
Provide information about your employment status, annual income, net worth, and your previous experience with financial instruments. This helps IC Markets ensure trading is appropriate for you.
Pass the Knowledge & Experience Quiz
IC Markets will ask you a short quiz on CFD and forex trading concepts to confirm you understand the risks involved. If you are unsure, brush up with our Bullet Academy articles first.
Upload Identity & Proof of Address Documents
Upload a photo of your passport, national ID, or driver's licence. You will also need a utility bill, bank statement, or government letter as proof of address (dated within 3 months).
✓ Pros
- Ultra-low Raw Spreads from 0.0 pips
- Multiple platforms: MT4, MT5, cTrader
- ASIC & CySEC regulated — top tier
- 2,250+ tradable instruments
- Fast withdrawals via multiple methods
- No requotes on ECN execution
✗ Cons
- $200 minimum deposit required
- $7 commission per lot on Raw accounts
- No copy trading / social trading feature
- No MAM/PAMM accounts available
- Knowledge quiz may deter beginners
IC Markets is one of the best ECN brokers available to retail traders globally. With raw spreads from 0.0 pips, true ECN execution, and support for MT4, MT5 and cTrader, it is particularly well-suited to scalpers, algorithmic traders, and anyone who demands tight spreads. Registration takes around 5 minutes, and KYC verification is typically completed within 1–2 days. If you are serious about your trading, IC Markets is a broker worth considering.