Kraken is one of the most trusted cryptocurrency exchanges in the digital asset space, known for its robust security, user-friendly interface, and global accessibility. While many traders are drawn to Kraken for its reliability, a common question arises: How can you earn extra rewards or referral income on Kraken?
Unlike some platforms, Kraken does not currently offer a traditional sign-up bonus. However, it provides powerful alternatives — including staking rewards and a highly lucrative affiliate program — that allow users to generate passive income and earn commissions by referring others.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore how you can maximize your earnings on Kraken through staking and referrals, clarify common misconceptions about sign-up bonuses, and offer practical tips to boost your crypto journey.
Does Kraken Offer a Sign-Up Bonus?
As of now, Kraken does not offer a sign-up bonus for new users. You won’t receive free funds or deposit-matching incentives when you open an account. This sets Kraken apart from some other exchanges that use promotional bonuses to attract new traders.
While you might come across third-party websites claiming to offer “Kraken promo codes” or “exclusive signup bonuses,” these often lead to dead ends or outdated information. Always verify directly on Kraken’s official site — currently, no such bonus exists.
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That said, Kraken has offered promotions in the past, so it's wise to keep an eye on their announcements. Even without a sign-up bonus, there are still highly effective ways to earn on the platform.
Earn Passive Income Through Kraken Staking
One of the best ways to generate returns on Kraken is through crypto staking — a process where you lock up certain cryptocurrencies to support blockchain network operations and, in return, earn rewards.
Kraken supports staking for multiple assets, with potential annual yields reaching up to 23%, depending on the coin and network conditions.
How to Stake on Kraken: Step-by-Step
- Deposit Eligible Assets
Buy or transfer supported cryptocurrencies (like ETH, ADA, SOL, DOT) into your Kraken account. - Check Staking Eligibility
Not all assets qualify for staking. Visit the staking section to see which coins are available. - Start Staking
Select the amount you’d like to stake. No additional setup is required — Kraken handles validation automatically. - Receive Weekly Rewards
Kraken distributes staking rewards twice per week, directly to your account.
The actual return depends on factors like network demand, total staked supply, and protocol rules. But because Kraken pools user stakes efficiently, even small holdings can generate meaningful income over time.
Kraken Referral Program: Earn 20% in Trading Fees
While there’s no welcome bonus, Kraken’s affiliate referral program is among the most rewarding in the crypto industry.
When you refer someone to Kraken using your unique referral link, you earn 20% of their trading fees — forever. There’s no expiration date, meaning every trade they make generates passive income for you.
How Much Can You Earn?
Let’s say your referral makes a trade with $100 in fees. You earn **$20 instantly. If they’re an active trader paying $500 monthly in fees, that’s **$100 per month for you — just for sharing a link.
- Maximum payout per referral: $1,000
- Payout frequency: Real-time
- Payment method: Bank transfer (not crypto)
Kraken sends your commissions directly to your bank account in your local currency — no need to withdraw from your exchange balance.
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Who Can Join the Kraken Affiliate Program?
Kraken welcomes both individuals and organizations to apply as affiliates. Here are the key eligibility requirements:
- Social media influencers with at least 5,000 followers on platforms like Twitter, YouTube, or Facebook.
- Crypto or finance-related websites and apps with significant traffic.
- Community groups (e.g., Telegram, Discord, Facebook) focused on crypto investing with 5,000+ members.
You don’t need to be a financial expert — if you have an engaged audience interested in crypto, you qualify.
Once accepted, you’ll receive a unique referral code to share across your channels. Every user who signs up via your link is tracked automatically.
Do Kraken Referral Codes Still Work?
Yes — but only through the official affiliate program. Random “referral codes” found online are often scams or outdated.
To get your legitimate referral link:
- Apply for the Kraken affiliate program.
- Get approved (usually within days).
- Access your dashboard and copy your personal link.
- Share it with your network.
Kraken tracks all signups and transactions linked to your code, ensuring you receive accurate commissions.
Can You Get Cashback When Trading on Kraken?
While Kraken doesn’t offer direct cashback, third-party platforms like Traders Union claim to provide rebate programs by routing signups through their affiliate links. However, these are not affiliated with Kraken and may come with hidden terms.
The safest and most transparent way to earn remains:
- Staking eligible assets
- Participating in the official Kraken affiliate program
Avoid unofficial middlemen — stick with Kraken’s built-in earning mechanisms for full control and security.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does Kraken have a referral program?
Yes, Kraken offers an affiliate program where you earn 20% of trading fees paid by users you refer. Commissions are paid in real time via bank transfer, with no time limit on earnings.
Is there a sign-up bonus on Kraken?
No, Kraken does not currently offer a sign-up or welcome bonus. Any claims of “free money” upon registration are likely misleading or outdated.
How much can I earn from staking on Kraken?
Returns vary by asset but can go up to 23% annually. Popular stakable coins include Ethereum (ETH), Cardano (ADA), Solana (SOL), and Polkadot (DOT). Rewards are distributed twice weekly.
Can I earn from someone’s margin or futures trades?
Yes. Your 20% commission applies to all types of trading fees — including spot, margin, futures, and rollover fees — as long as the user signed up via your referral link.
How do I receive my affiliate payments?
Kraken pays affiliates via bank transfer in your account’s default currency. Payments are processed automatically and appear in real time once earned.
Are there limits to how much I can earn?
There’s no cap on total earnings. However, the maximum payout per single referral is capped at $1,000. After that, the referral no longer generates commissions for you.
Final Thoughts: Maximize Your Crypto Growth on Kraken
While Kraken may not hand out sign-up bonuses, it empowers users with sustainable earning methods: staking and referrals. These features support long-term growth rather than short-term incentives.
Whether you're a new trader looking to earn yield on idle assets or a content creator with a growing audience, Kraken offers real pathways to monetize your involvement in the crypto space.
👉 Start building your passive income strategy on a leading crypto platform today.
By focusing on verified income streams — not hype or false promises — you position yourself for lasting success in digital asset investing.
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