Forex Margin Calculator
Find the margin your broker will hold to open a position, based on position size, price and the leverage on your account.
How to use the margin calculator
Enter the position size in lots, the current price of the pair, your account leverage and how the pair is quoted. The calculator shows the notional value of the position in US dollars and the margin required to open it.
Margin formula
Required margin = notional value ÷ leverage
Example: 1 standard lot of EUR/USD at 1.0800 has a notional value of $108,000. At 30:1 leverage the margin is $108,000 ÷ 30 = $3,600. At 50:1 it is $2,160.
Leverage limits
Retail leverage is capped in most major jurisdictions. In the UK, EU and Australia the cap is 30:1 on major currency pairs and lower on other assets. In the US it is 50:1 on major pairs. Higher leverage lowers the margin needed but does not change your profit or loss per pip. Learn more in leverage and margin explained.
Margin is not your risk
Margin is a deposit, not the most you can lose. Your risk is set by position size and stop-loss distance. Size trades with the position size calculator first, then use this calculator to check you have enough free margin. If equity falls below your broker's margin requirement, positions may be closed automatically.
Frequently asked questions
How is forex margin calculated?
Divide the notional value of the position by your leverage. One lot of EUR/USD at 1.0800 is $108,000 notional, so at 30:1 the margin is $3,600.
What leverage can retail traders use?
In the UK, EU and Australia retail traders are capped at 30:1 on major pairs. In the US the cap is 50:1 on major pairs. Offshore brokers may offer more, with less protection.
Does higher leverage increase risk?
Leverage itself does not change the loss per pip, but it lets you open larger positions with less money, which makes oversized trades easier.
What is a margin call?
A warning or automatic action when your equity falls below the margin your broker requires. Positions may be closed to limit further losses.