How to Open an Account with Interactive Brokers

Detailed and Regulated Registration Process

Opening an account with IBKR can take between 1 and 3 days. You need to complete forms with personal information, submit identity and address documents, and—if you're requesting margin—financial statements. Security and regulatory compliance are priorities, making the process more demanding than with other brokers.

Requirements by Account Type

There is no mandatory minimum deposit for cash accounts, but $2,000 USD is recommended if you're going to use margin. IBKR accepts bank transfers, ACH, and checks (in the U.S.). Funds can be deposited in more than 20 currencies and are automatically converted to the desired base currency.

Access to Three Interconnected Platforms

Trader Workstation (TWS), Client Portal, and the IBKR Mobile app are available to all users. TWS is the most advanced, designed for active trading, complex options, and institutional execution. Client Portal is simpler for account management, while IBKR Mobile offers full functionality on smartphones.

• Opening in 1–3 business days

• ID, address, and funds verification (for margin)

• Minimum recommended deposit: $2,000 for margin

• Platforms: TWS, Client Portal, IBKR Mobile

• Accepts transfers and ACH

Available Instruments and Platforms

Multi-Asset Trading in Over 150 Markets

IBKR allows investing in stocks, ETFs, options, futures, forex, bonds, metals, and even cryptocurrencies. You can trade in markets from the U.S., Europe, Asia, and Latin America from a single account, all with direct execution and advanced analysis tools.

Trader Workstation: High-Level Platform

TWS is one of the most powerful platforms in the industry: it includes market scanners, technical analysis, risk tools, portfolio management, access to financial news, and a trade simulator. It's designed for active traders, fund managers, and institutional users.

• Stocks, ETFs, futures, options, forex, bonds, and crypto

• Over 150 markets in 33 countries

• Trader Workstation with advanced features

• Client Portal for simple investment management

• IBKR Mobile with full access from your phone

Commissions, Regulation, and User Experience

Ultra-Competitive Cost Structure

Stocks have a commission of $0.005 per share (minimum $1). Options and futures start at $1 per contract. Forex operates with interbank spreads, with margins starting from 0.1 pips. There are no inactivity fees, and the platform offers tiered pricing based on volume.

Maximum Regulation and Financial Solidity

Interactive Brokers is regulated by the SEC, FINRA, FCA, ASIC, and other leading entities. Additionally, client funds are insured by SIPC up to $500,000 (including $250,000 in cash). The company holds over $14 billion in its own capital, ensuring long-term stability.

User Profile and Learning Curve

IBKR is designed for sophisticated investors: advanced traders, portfolio managers, and users seeking real diversification. The platforms can be complex at first, but they offer an unparalleled level of control and customization in the retail market.

• Stocks from $0.005 per unit

• Crypto, bonds, futures, and more in one account

• Regulated by SEC, FINRA, FCA, ASIC, among others

• Funds insured by SIPC up to $500K

• Ideal for active and high-volume investors