A professional account (under EU/EEA rules, by election) is for experienced clients who meet criteria such as portfolio size, trading frequency and industry experience. It can unlock higher leverage but waives some retail protections like negative-balance limits.

Common tests: a portfolio above a threshold (e.g. EUR 500k), frequent trading (e.g. 10+ per quarter over a year) and relevant experience. Brokers assess this on request.

Professional status can raise leverage but typically removes negative-balance protection and certain risk warnings. Only opt in if you fully understand the reduced safeguards.

The brokers below are widely used and support a range of funding and account options. Always verify availability for your specific region and entity on each broker's site before funding:

• 1. IC Markets– read our full assessment and compare professional accounts.
• 2. Pepperstone– read our full assessment and compare professional accounts.
• 3. FXPro– read our full assessment and compare professional accounts.
• 4. FP Markets– read our full assessment and compare professional accounts.
• 5. Capital.com– read our full assessment and compare professional accounts.

Compare detailed, independent reviews of brokers relevant to this category:

• IC Markets Review
• Pepperstone Review
• FXPro Review
• FP Markets Review
• Capital.com Review

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What is a professional forex account?

A status for experienced clients (by election under EU rules) that can allow higher leverage with fewer retail protections.

How do I become a professional client?

Meet criteria such as portfolio size, trading activity and experience; the broker assesses and approves.

Do I lose protections as a professional?

Often yes - negative-balance protection and some risk warnings may not apply. Understand the trade-off before electing.

Is higher leverage automatic?

No - it depends on approval and the entity's rules; confirm the exact limit you would receive.