Arbitrum is a Layer 2 scaling solution for Ethereum that aims to improve transaction speed and reduce fees by processing transactions off the main Ethereum chain.

Can I bridge any ERC-20 token to Arbitrum?

Not all ERC-20 tokens are supported by the Arbitrum bridge. Check the bridge website for a list of supported assets.

Is there a limit to how much I can bridge?

Yes, there are minimum and maximum limits for bridging assets. These limits vary depending on the asset and the bridge service.

How do I get my funds back to Ethereum?

You can use the Arbitrum bridge to transfer your assets back to the Ethereum mainnet. The process is similar to bridging to Arbitrum.

How to Bridge to Arbitrum

Quick answer: To bridge to Arbitrum, you need to use a bridge service like Arbitrum Bridge, connect your wallet, select the asset, and confirm the transfer.

Before you start

A compatible crypto wallet (e.g., MetaMask) with Ethereum (ETH) for gas fees.
Some ETH in your wallet to pay for transaction fees.
Basic understanding of Ethereum and Layer 2 solutions.
Access to the internet and a computer or smartphone.

How to Bridge to Arbitrum: step by step

1. Access Arbitrum Bridge

Go to the official Arbitrum Bridge website. Ensure you are on the correct site to avoid scams.

2. Connect Your Wallet

Click ‘Connect Wallet’ and select your wallet provider (e.g., MetaMask). Follow the prompts to connect.

3. Select the Asset to Bridge

Choose the asset you want to transfer from the dropdown menu. Ensure you have enough of the asset for the transfer.

4. Enter Transfer Amount

Input the amount of the asset you wish to bridge to Arbitrum. Check the minimum and maximum limits.

5. Confirm the Transaction

Review the details, including the amount and fees. Click ‘Confirm’ to initiate the transfer.

6. Approve the Transaction in Your Wallet

A prompt will appear in your wallet. Review the gas fees and confirm the transaction.

7. Wait for the Transfer to Complete

The transfer may take a few minutes. You can check the status on the bridge website or in your wallet.

8. Verify the Funds in Arbitrum

Once the transfer is complete, check your Arbitrum wallet balance to ensure the funds have arrived.

Fees and how long it takes

Typical fees for bridging to Arbitrum depend on the current Ethereum gas prices and can range from a few dollars to over $50. The time it takes to complete the transfer can vary from 5 to 20 minutes, depending on network congestion and the complexity of the transaction.

Factors affecting fees and timing include the amount of traffic on the Ethereum network and the specific asset being bridged.

Stay safe

Always double-check the bridge website URL to avoid phishing scams.
Ensure you have enough ETH for gas fees before initiating the transfer.
Never share your seed phrase or private keys with anyone.
Test with a small amount first to ensure the process works as expected.
Be aware that on-chain transfers are irreversible.

If something goes wrong

Transaction not confirming — Check your wallet balance for sufficient ETH to cover gas fees and try again.

Funds not showing in Arbitrum — Wait a few more minutes and refresh your wallet. If still missing, check the transaction status on the bridge website.

High gas fees — Consider waiting for a time when Ethereum network congestion is lower, or try using a different bridge service with lower fees.

Doing this as part of trading, income, or a disposal? See how it may be taxed in Tax by country and the taxable-events section — information, not advice.