Staking Flow

Before interacting with the API methods, it is useful to understand how staking works conceptually in StakeWise.

StakeWise uses a Vault-based staking model. Users deposit ETH into a Vault, which manages validator participation on Ethereum. In return, users optionally receive liquid staking tokens (osETH) that represent their staked position while still allowing liquidity. More information available on the official documentation: https://docs.stakewise.io/docs/vaults/how-vaults-work

Stake

Staking in StakeWise consists of depositing ETH into a StakeWise Vault. The Vault manages validator registration and execution on behalf of stakers.

1. Deposit ETH: Use the stake method to deposit a specific amount of ETH into the chosen StakeWise Vault.
2. Transaction Confirmation: Once the transaction is confirmed on-chain, the ETH becomes part of the Vault’s staked balance.
3. Reward Accrual: Rewards accrue over time based on protocol conditions and validator performance, and are reflected proportionally in the liquid staking token holdings.

Unstake

Unstaking begins the process of exiting part or all of the staked ETH from the Vault back to a withdrawable state.

1. Initiate Unstake: Use the unstake method to signal withdrawal of a specified amount of ETH from the Vault.
2. Exit Queue & Processing: The unstake request enters the Vault’s exit queue and is processed according to protocol rules. Users may need to wait as validator exits are fulfilled.
3. Ready for Withdrawal: Once the unstaking process completes and ETH is available in the Vault, it becomes withdrawable.

Withdraw

After unstaking has processed and the ETH is available in the Vault, a separate action moves the funds back to the user’s wallet.

1. Check Withdrawable Amount: Verify how much ETH is available for withdrawal.
2. Withdraw Funds: Use the withdraw method to transfer the available ETH back into your wallet.
3. Post-Withdrawal: The withdrawn ETH can be used freely on-chain or restaked as desired.

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Staking API Diagram