Jump to content

Legality of cryptocurrency by country or territory

Page semi-protected
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
(Redirected from Legality of bitcoin)

Legal status of bitcoin
  Legal tender (bitcoin is officially recognized as a medium of exchange)
  Permissive (legal to use bitcoin, with minimal or no restrictions)
  Restricted (some legal restrictions on the usage of bitcoin)
  Contentious (interpretation of old laws, but bitcoin is not directly prohibited)
  Prohibited (full or partial prohibition on the use of bitcoin)
  No data (no information available)

The legal status of cryptocurrencies varies substantially from one jurisdiction to another, and is still undefined or changing in many of them.[1] Whereas, in the majority of countries the usage of cryptocurrency isn't in itself illegal, its status and usability as a means of payment (or a commodity) varies, with differing regulatory implications.[2]

While some states have explicitly allowed its use and trade, others have banned or restricted it. Likewise, various government agencies, departments, and courts have classified cryptocurrencies differently.

Detail by intergovernmental organization

Country or territory Legality
 European Union Legal

The European Union has passed no specific legislation relative to the status of bitcoin as a currency, but has stated that VAT/GST is not applicable to the conversion between traditional (fiat) currency and bitcoin.

VAT/GST and other taxes (such as income tax) still apply to transactions made using bitcoins for goods and services. [3]: European Union 

In October 2015, the Court of Justice of the European Union ruled that "The exchange of traditional currencies for units of the 'bitcoin' virtual currency is exempt from VAT" and that "Member States must exempt, inter alia, transactions relating to 'currency, bank notes and coins used as legal tender'", making bitcoin a currency as opposed to being a commodity.[4][5] According to judges, the tax should not be charged because bitcoins should be treated as a means of payment.[6]

According to the European Central Bank, traditional financial sector regulation is not applicable to bitcoin because it does not involve traditional financial actors.[7]: 5  Others in the EU have stated, however, that existing rules can be extended to include bitcoin and bitcoin companies.[8]

The European Central Bank classifies bitcoin as a convertible decentralized virtual currency.[7]: 6  In July 2014 the European Banking Authority advised European banks not to deal in virtual currencies such as bitcoin until a regulatory regime was in place.[9]

In 2016 the European Parliament's proposal to set up a taskforce to monitor virtual currencies to combat money laundering and terrorism, passed by 542 votes to 51, with 11 abstentions, has been sent to the European Commission for consideration.[10]

In January 2022, Erik Thedéen, vice-chair of the European Securities and Markets Authority, called for an EU ban on proof of work crypto-mining to favor the proof of stake model and fight climate change.[11]

G7 Legal

In 2013 the G7's Financial Action Task Force issued the following statement in guidelines which may be applicable to companies involved in transmitting bitcoin and other currencies, "Internet-based payment services that allow third party funding from anonymous sources may face an increased risk of [money laundering/terrorist financing]." They concluded that this might "pose challenges to countries in [anti-money laundering/counter-terrorist financing] regulation and supervision".[12]

Detail by country or territory

Alphabetical index to classifications

Africa

Northern Africa

Country or territory Legality
 Algeria Illegal

According to the official journal (28 December 2017):

Art. 117. — The purchase, sale, use, and holding of so-called virtual currency is prohibited. Virtual currency is that used by internet users via the web. It is characterized by the absence of physical support such as coins, notes, payments by cheque or credit card. Any breach of this provision is punishable in accordance with the laws and regulations in force.[13][14]: 82 

 Egypt Illegal

"Individuals, banks, and other financial institutions are prohibited from dealing in cryptocurrencies."[15]

 Morocco Illegal

On 20 November 2017 the exchange office issued a public statement in which it declared, "The Office des Changes wishes to inform the general public that the transactions via virtual currencies constitute an infringement of the exchange regulations, liable to penalties and fines provided for by [existing laws] in force."[14]: 87 

The following day, the monetary authorities also reacted in a statement issued jointly by the Ministry of Economy and Finance, Bank Al-Maghrib and the Moroccan Capital Market Authority (AMMC), warning against risks associated with bitcoin, which may be used "for illicit or criminal purposes, including money laundering and terrorist financing".[16]

On 19 December 2017, Abdellatif Jouahri, governor of Bank Al-Maghrib, said at a press conference held in Rabat during the last quarterly meeting of the Bank Al-Maghrib's Board of 2017 that bitcoin is not a currency but a "financial asset". He also warned of its dangers and called for a framework to be put in place for consumer protection.[17]

Western Africa

Country or territory Legality
 Nigeria Legal / Banking ban

As of 17 January 2017, The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has passed a circular to inform all Nigerian banks that bank transactions in bitcoin and other virtual currencies have been banned in Nigeria.[18]

Later on, a committee was set up by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) to look into the possibility of the country adopting the technology driving bitcoin and other digital currencies – blockchain. The committee has submitted its report but "several sub-committees are still working on the issue" according to the Director, Banking & Payments System Department at CBN, Mr. ‘Dipo Fatokun.[19]

On 5 February 2021, The Central Bank of Nigeria issued a circular informing financial institutions in Nigeria that sequel to their circular in January 2017, dealing in cryptocurrency or facilitating payment for same remains prohibited and would attract a stiff penalty.[20]

East and Central Africa

Country or territory Legality
 Tanzania Legal / Use discouraged by central bank

While not officially banned, the Bank of Tanzania advises not to use cryptocurrency, stressing that the Tanzanian shilling is the only acceptable legal tender.[21][22]

 Central African Republic Legal

On 22 April 2022 parliament of the Central African Republic voted for the cryptocurrency law which was promulgated on 27 April officially making Bitcoin a legal tender in the country.[23] In April 2023, the CAR agreed to repeal the adoption of Bitcoin as legal tender.[24]

Southeast Africa

Horn of Africa

Indian Ocean States

Country or territory Legality
 Mauritius Legal

The Financial Services Commission of Mauritius considers cryptocurrencies to be regulated as a Digital Asset under the Financial Services Act 2007, and while it cautions investors they are not protected by any statutory compensation agreements, they are legal.[25]

Southern Africa

Country or territory Legality
 Angola Legal

While government officials have advised against the use of bitcoin, there is no legislation against it and it remains fully legal.[26]

 South Africa Legal

In December 2014 the Reserve Bank of South Africa issued a position paper on virtual currencies whereby it declared that virtual currency had "no legal status or regulatory framework".[27] The South African Revenue Service classified bitcoin as an intangible asset.[28]

 Namibia Legal / Banking ban

In September 2017 the Bank of Namibia issued a position paper on virtual currencies entitled[29] wherein it declared cryptocurrency exchanges are not allowed and cryptocurrency cannot be accepted as payment for goods and services.

 Zimbabwe Unknown

The Reserve Bank Of Zimbabwe has banned the banking use of crypto currency, however the High Court Order lifted the ban. The Reserve Bank have filed a notice of objection with the Court. However, no source indicating a resolution of the matter was located.[30]

Americas

North America

Country or territory Legality
 Canada Legal / Banking ban

Companies dealing in virtual currencies must register with the national financial intelligence agency Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC), implement compliance programs, keep the required records, report suspicious or terrorist-related transactions, and determine if any of their customers are "politically exposed persons."

The law applies to non-Canadian virtual currency exchanges if they have Canadian customers. Banks may not open or maintain accounts or have a correspondent banking relationship with companies dealing in virtual currencies if that company is not registered with FINTRAC.

Dealers in digital currency are regulated as money services businesses.[31]

The Autorité des marchés financiers (AMF), the financial regulator in the province of Quebec, has declared that some bitcoin related business models, including exchanges and ATMs, are regulated under its current MSB Act.[32]

As of April 2018, the Bank of Montreal (BMO) announced that it would ban its credit and debit card customers from participating in cryptocurrency purchases with their cards.[33] This is following another banking ban in Canada from Toronto-Dominion Bank (TD).[34]

 United States Legal

The U.S. Treasury classified bitcoin as a convertible decentralized virtual currency in 2013.[35] The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), classified bitcoin as a commodity in September 2015. Per the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), bitcoin is taxed as a property.[36]

Bitcoin was mentioned in a U.S. Supreme Court opinion (in the case of Wisconsin Central Ltd. v. United States) on 21 June 2018.[37] In an opinion, the U.S. Supreme Court mentioned that the definition of money has changed over time and that "perhaps one day employees will be paid in Bitcoin or some other type of cryptocurrency..."[37]

If money services businesses, including cryptocurrency exchanges, money transmitters, and anonymizing services (known as "mixers" or "tumblers") do a substantial amount of business in the U.S., according to Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) director Kenneth Blanco in 2018, they are required to:[38]

As of August 2018, U.S. FinCEN had been receiving more than 1,500 SARs per month involving cryptocurrencies.[38] Seventeen other countries have similar AML requirements.[14]

In September 2016, in a federal court case involving a person operating an unlicensed money transmitting businesses, the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York ruled that "Bitcoins are funds within the plain meaning of that term. Bitcoins can be accepted as a payment for goods and services or bought directly from an exchange with a bank account. They therefore function as pecuniary resources and are used as a medium of exchange and a means of payment."[39]

 Mexico Legal

Bitcoin was legal in Mexico as of 2017, with plans to regulate it as a virtual asset by the FinTech Law.[40]

Central America

Country or territory Legality
 Costa Rica Not considered currency

In October 2017, the Central Bank of Costa Rica issued a statement that Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies are not considered currencies, are not backed by law, and cannot be traded on Costa Rica's national payment system. The Central Bank emphasized that anyone who used cryptocurrency did so at their own risk.[41]

 El Salvador Legal

Bitcoin was made legal tender in the country through the Bitcoin Law, which was passed on 8 June 2021,[42][43] and took effect on 7 September 2021.[44][45]

One month on, more Salvadorans have Bitcoin wallets than traditional bank accounts, and the most popular Bitcoin wallet—the government's officially-sponsored Chivo wallet—had been downloaded by three million people, approaching 46 percent of the population.[46] However, only 12 percent of Salvadoran consumers have used the cryptocurrency, and 93 percent of companies surveyed reported receiving no payments in bitcoin during the first month.[47]

 Nicaragua Not regulated as of 2014

As of 2014, the government had not passed any regulation on Bitcoin, nor had the central bank issued rulings or guidelines. In January 2014, El Nuevo Diario reported that an American banker had used bitcoin to purchase real estate in the country. [3]: Nicaragua 

Caribbean

Country or territory Legality
 Jamaica Legal

In 2017, The Bank of Jamaica (BoJ), issued a statement saying that it must create opportunities for the exploitation of cryptocurrency technology. The BoJ said it planned a campaign to build awareness of cryptocurrencies as part of increasing general financial literacy.[48][49][3]: Jamaica 

 Trinidad and Tobago Legal

In 2018, the Central Bank of Trinidad and Tobago issued a statement that it was willing to work with companies that provided Fintech and virtual currencies, while also cautioning that virtual currencies were risky, could be used to facilitate criminal activities, and lacked insurance and regulator recourse in case of problems.[50]

South America

Country or territory Legality
 Argentina Legal / Banking ban

Bitcoins may be considered money, but not legal currency. A bitcoin may be considered either a good or a thing under the Argentina's Civil Code, and transactions with bitcoins may be governed by the rules for the sale of goods under the Civil Code.[3]: Argentina  On May 5, 2022, the Central Bank of Argentina banned financial institutions to facilitate any cryptocurrency-related transactions.[51]

 Bolivia Legal / Banking ban

The Central Bank of Bolivia issued a resolution banning bitcoin and any other currency not regulated by a country or economic zone in 2014.[52] Resolution of the Central Bank of Bolivia No. 144 of Dec. 15, 2020 repealed Resolution No. 044 of May 6, 2014.[citation needed]

 Brazil Legal

In December 2022, Brazil established a licensing regime for virtual asset service providers with the aim of legalizing crypto as a payment method. Previously regulated, according to a 2014 statement by the Central Bank of Brazil concerning cryptocurrencies, but is discouraged because of operational risks.[53] In November 2017 this unregulated and discouraged status was reiterated by the Central Bank of Brazil.[54] On 7 May 2019, the Special Department of Federal Revenue of Brazil published a document on cryptocurrency taxes in the country.[55]

 Chile Legal

There is no regulation on the use of bitcoins.[3]: Chile 

 Colombia Legal / Banking ban

Financial institutions are not allowed to facilitate bitcoin transactions. The Superintendencia Financiera warned financial institutions in 2014 that they may not "protect, invest, broker, or manage virtual money operations".[14]

 Ecuador Legal to trade and hold / Illegal as a payment tool, banking ban

Usage of any cryptocurrency as a payment tool is banned, according to Article 98 of the Organic Code on Monetary and Financial Matters, with sanctions that includes the seizure of cryptocurrencies and any product acquired with them.[56] As of December 25, 2021, no person has been criminally prosecuted for this reason. The Ecuadorian financial system strictly blocks any cryptocurrency-related transaction. Despite this, on January 8, 2018, according to a statement issued by the Central Bank of Ecuador, the purchase and sale of bitcoins is legal.[57]

 Venezuela Legal to hold / Illegal to mine

In January 2018 Carlos Vargas, the government's cryptocurrency superintendent said "It is an activity that is now perfectly legal. We have had meetings with the Supreme Court so that people who have been victims of seizures and arrests in previous years will have charges dismissed."[58][unreliable source?] In March 2023, regulators issued a temporary ban on all cryptocurrency mining, due to concerns over corruption and embezzlement. As of June the ban remained in place.[59]

Asia

Central Asia

Country or territory Legality
 Afghanistan Illegal

In August 2022 Taliban banned trading in cryptocurrencies.[60]

 Kyrgyzstan Legal

Bitcoin is considered a commodity,[61] not a security or currency under the laws of the Kyrgyz Republic and may be legally mined, bought, sold and traded on a local commodity exchange.[62] The use of bitcoin as a currency in domestic settlements is restricted.[63]

 Uzbekistan Legal

On 2 September 2018, a decree legalizing crypto trading — also making it tax-free — and mining in the country came into force, making Uzbekistan a crypto-friendly state.[64]

West Asia

Country or territory Legality
 United Arab Emirates Legal / Banking ban

According to the Library of Congress "The Central Bank does not recognize cryptocurrencies as a form of payment yet. However, it is working on a new regulation for retail payment services that introduces the concept of tokens that could be used for payment purposes."[30]

On 13 February 2018 Dubai gold trader Regal RA DMCC became the first company in the Middle East to get a license to trade cryptocurrencies, the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre said.[65] DMCC's website emphasizes the "cold storage" of cryptocurrencies and states "DMCC's Crypto-commodities license is for Proprietary Trading in Crypto-commodities only. No initial coin offerings are permitted and no establishment of an exchange is permitted under this license."[66]

In November 2020, the Securities and Commodities Authority published "The Chairman of the Authority's Board of Directors' Decision No. (23/Chairman) of 2020 Concerning Crypto Assets Activities Regulation." It establishes a regulatory framework for the offering, issuance, listing, and trading of crypto assets. Crypto assets providers must be incorporated onshore within the UAE.[67][68][69][70]

 Israel Not considered currency

As of 2017, the Israel Tax Authorities issued a statement saying that bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies would not fall under the legal definition of currency, and neither of that of a financial security, but of a taxable asset.[71] Each time a bitcoin is sold, the seller would have to pay a capital gains tax of 25%. Miners, traders of bitcoins would be treated as businesses and would have to pay corporate income tax as well as charge a 17% VAT.[72]

 Saudi Arabia Legal / Banking ban

Financial institutions are warned from using bitcoin.[14] The Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) has warned from using bitcoin as it is high risk and its dealers will not be guaranteed any protection or rights.[73]

 Jordan Legal / Banking ban

The government of Jordan has issued a warning discouraging the use of bitcoin and other similar systems.[74]

The Central Bank of Jordan prohibits banks, currency exchanges, financial companies, and payment service companies from dealing in bitcoins or other digital currencies.[75] While it warned the public of risks of bitcoins, and that they are not legal tender, bitcoins are still accepted by small businesses and merchants.[75]

 Lebanon Legal

The government of Lebanon has issued a warning discouraging the use of bitcoin and other similar systems.[74]

 Turkey Legal / Illegal as a payment tool, banking ban

On 16 April 2021, Central Bank of the Republic of Turkey issued a regulation banning the use of cryptocurrencies including bitcoin and other such digital assets based on distributed ledger technology, directly or indirectly, to pay for goods and services, citing possible "irreparable" damage and transaction risks starting 30 April 2021.[76][77]

 Qatar Legal / Banking ban

Banks are not allowed to trade in bitcoin due to concerns over financial crimes and hacking. Additionally cryptocurrency is banned in the Qatar Financial Centre.[78]

 Iran Legal / Banking ban

Financial institutions are not allowed by central bank to facilitate bitcoin transactions.[14] In April 2018, Central Bank of the Islamic Republic of Iran issued a statement banning the country's banks and financial institutions from dealing with cryptocurrencies, citing money laundering and terrorism financing risks.[79]

South Asia

Country or territory Legality
 Bangladesh Illegal

Financial institutions are not allowed to facilitate bitcoin transactions.[14] In September 2014, Bangladesh Bank said that "anybody caught using the virtual currency could be jailed under the country's strict anti-money laundering laws".[80] In 2021 the Bangladesh Bank said that cryptocurrency transactions or trade should be deemed as crimes if they involve money laundering or terror financing.[81]

 India Legal

Finance minister Arun Jaitley, in his budget speech on 1 February 2018, stated that the government will do everything to discontinue the use of bitcoin and other virtual currencies in India for criminal uses. He reiterated that India does not recognise them as legal tender and will instead encourage blockchain technology in payment systems.

"The government does not recognise cryptocurrency as legal tender or coin and will take all measures to eliminate the use of these cryptoassets in financing illegitimate activities or as part of the payments system," Jaitley said.[82]

In early 2018 India's central bank, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced a ban on the sale or purchase of cryptocurrency for entities regulated by RBI.[83]

In 2019, a petition has been filed by Internet and Mobile Association of India with the Supreme Court of India challenging the legality of cryptocurrencies and seeking a direction or order restraining their transaction.[84] In March 2020, the Supreme Court of India passed the verdict, revoking the RBI ban on cryptocurrency trade.[85][86]

In 2021, the government is exploring the creation of a state-backed digital currency issued by the Reserve Bank of India, while banning private ones like bitcoin.[87]

At present, India neither prohibits nor allows investment in the cryptocurrency market. In 2020, the Supreme Court of India had specifically lifted the ban on cryptocurrency, which was imposed by the Reserve Bank of India.[88][89][90][91] Since then the investment in cryptocurrency is considered legitimate though there is still ambiguity about the issues regarding the extent and payment of tax on the income accrued thereupon and also its regulatory regime. But it is being contemplated that the Indian Parliament will soon pass a specific law to either ban or regulate the cryptocurrency market in India.[92] Expressing his public policy opinion on the Indian cryptocurrency market to a well-known online publication, a leading public policy lawyer and Vice President of SAARCLAW (South Asian Association for Regional Co-operation in Law) Hemant Batra has said that the "cryptocurrency market has now become very big with involvement of billions of dollars in the market hence, it is now unattainable and irreconcilable for the government to completely ban all sorts of cryptocurrency and its trading and investment".[93] He mooted regulating the cryptocurrency market rather than completely banning it. He favoured following IMF and FATF guidelines in this regard.

   Nepal Illegal

Absolute ban.[14] The use of any cryptocurrency is illegal in Nepal.[94]

 Pakistan Legal

Cryptocurrencies including bitcoin are not officially regulated in Pakistan;[95][96] however, it is not illegal or banned. As of 16 January 2021, the State Bank of Pakistan has not authorized any individuals or organizations to carry out the sale, purchase, exchange, and investment of virtual currencies, coins, and tokens.[97] There have been a number of arrests by the Cyber Crime Wing of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) related to the mining of bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. These arrests were made under money-laundering charges.[98]

Despite the many controversies around virtual currencies, prominent Pakistani bloggers and social media influencers are publicly involved in trading bitcoin and regularly publish content on social media in the favor of regulating cryptocurrencies. In December 2020, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government became the first province in Pakistan to pass a resolution to legalize cryptocurrency in the country.[99]

East Asia

Country or territory Legality
 China (PRC) Illegal

Financial institutions are not allowed to facilitate bitcoin transactions.[14] Regulation prohibits financial firms holding or trading cryptocurrencies.[8]: China  On 5 December 2013, People's Bank of China (PBOC) made its first step in regulating bitcoin by prohibiting financial institutions from handling bitcoin transactions.[100]

On 1 April 2014 PBOC ordered commercial banks and payment companies to close bitcoin trading accounts in two weeks.[101]

Cryptocurrency exchanges or trading platforms were effectively banned by regulation in September 2017 with 173 platforms closed down by July 2018.[102]

In early 2018 the People's Bank of China announced the State Administration of Foreign Exchange led by Pan Gongsheng would crack down on bitcoin mining.[103][104] Many bitcoin mining operations in China had stopped operating by January 2018.[102] A complete ban on cryptocurrency trading and mining was put into effect on 24 September 2021.[105]

 Hong Kong Legal

In 2013 Norman Chan, the chief executive of Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) said that bitcoin is only a virtual commodity. He also decided that bitcoin will not be regulated by HKMA. However, the authority will be closely watching the usage of bitcoin locally and its development overseas.[106] Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury addressed bitcoin in the Legislative Council stating that "Hong Kong at present has no legislation directly regulating bitcoins and other virtual currencies of [a] similar kind. However, our existing laws (such as the Organised and Serious Crimes Ordinance) provide sanctions against unlawful acts involving bitcoins, such as fraud or money laundering."[3]: Hong Kong 

Starting in late 2022 government bodies including the Treasury Bureau and the HKMA announced they intended to embrace digital assets, and began work on a regulatory framework based on the idea of “same activity, same risks, same regulation”.[107][108][109][110] By late 2023 a supervision framework that includes enhanced identity verification was finalized.[111] The new Virtual Asset Trading Platform regulations came into force mid-2024.[112]

 Japan Legal

On 7 March 2014, the Japanese government, in response to a series of questions asked in the National Diet, made a cabinet decision on the legal treatment of bitcoins in the form of answers to the questions.[113] The decision did not see bitcoin as currency nor bond under the current Banking Act and Financial Instruments and Exchange Law, prohibiting banks and securities companies from dealing in bitcoins. The decision also acknowledges that there are no laws to unconditionally prohibit individuals or legal entities from receiving bitcoins in exchange for goods or services. Taxes may be applicable to bitcoins.

As of April 2017, cryptocurrency exchange businesses operating in Japan have been regulated by the Payment Services Act. Cryptocurrency exchange businesses have to be registered, keep records, take security measures, and take measures to protect customers. The law on cryptocurrency transactions must comply with the anti-money laundering law; and measures to protect users investors. The Payment Services Act defines "cryptocurrency" as a property value. The Act also states that cryptocurrency is limited to property values that are stored electronically on electronic devices, not a legal tender.[114][115]

 South Korea Legal

Minors and all foreigners are prohibited from trading cryptocurrencies. Adult South Koreans may trade on registered exchanges using real name accounts at a bank where the exchange also has an account. Both the bank and the exchange are responsible for verifying the customer's identity and enforcing other anti-money-laundering provisions.[116][117]

 Taiwan Legal / Banking ban

Financial institutions are not allowed to facilitate bitcoin transactions.[14] Regulators have warned the public that bitcoin does not have legal protection, "as the currency is not issued by any monetary authority and is therefore not entitled to legal claims or guarantee of conversion".[118]

Financial institutions have been warned by regulators that necessary regulatory actions may be taken if they use bitcoin.[3]: Taiwan 

On 31 December 2013, Financial Supervisory Commission (Republic of China) (FSC) and CBC issued a joint statement which warns against the use of bitcoin. It is stated that bitcoin remains highly volatile, highly speculative, and is not entitled to legal claims or guarantee of conversion.[119]

On 5 January 2014, FSC chairman Tseng Ming-chung stated that FSC will not allow the installation of bitcoin ATM in Taiwan because bitcoin is not a currency and it should not be accepted by individuals and banks as payment.[120]

Southeast Asia

Country or territory Legality
 Cambodia Legal / Banking ban

The National Bank of Cambodia (NBC), has "asked banks in Cambodia not to allow people to conduct transactions with cryptocurrencies."[14]

 Indonesia Legal to trade and hold / Illegal as payment tool

On 7 December 2017, Bank Indonesia, the country's central bank, issued a regulation banning the use of cryptocurrencies including bitcoin as payment tools starting 1 January 2018.[14] On 11 November 2021, Indonesian Ulema Council issued haram fatwa against use of cryptocurrencies as currency including Bitcoin, citing both Islamic laws and Indonesian banking and monetary regulations. The fatwa also forbids cryptocurrency trading and holding, except if those cryptocurrencies met the Islamic sil'ah standards of trade-able and own-able goods such as having physical form, having clear value, having known number, can be really owned, transferable, and not entirely speculative.[121] By passing of the Law on Financial Sector Development and Strengthening on 15 December 2022, all cryptocurrencies including the Bitcoin listed as "monitored financial technologies" that all related affairs related to the innovation, utilization, and other activities related to it will become the subject of Bank Indonesia and Financial Services Authority control and monitoring.[122]

 Malaysia Legal

On 4 November 2013, Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) met with local bitcoin proponents to learn more about the currency but did not comment at the time.[123] BNM issued a statement on 6 January 2014 that bitcoin is not recognised as a legal tender in Malaysia. The central bank will not regulate bitcoin operations at the moment and users should aware of the risks associated with bitcoin usage.[124][125][3]: Malaysia 

 Philippines Legal

On 6 March 2014, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) issued a statement on risks associated with bitcoin trading and usage. Recently virtual currencies were legalized and cryptocurrency exchanges are now regulated by Central Bank of the Philippines (Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas) under Circular 944; however bitcoin and other "virtual currencies" are not recognized by the BSP as currency as "it is neither issued or guaranteed by a central bank nor backed by any commodity."[126]

 Singapore Legal

In December 2013, the Monetary Authority of Singapore reportedly stated that "[w]hether or not businesses accept bitcoins in exchange for their goods and services is a commercial decision in which MAS does not intervene."[3]: Singapore 

On 22 September 2013, the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) warned users of the risks associated with using bitcoin stating "If bitcoin ceases to operate, there may not be an identifiable party responsible for refunding their monies or for them to seek recourse"[127] and in December 2013 stated "Whether or not businesses accept bitcoins in exchange for their goods and services is a commercial decision in which MAS does not intervene"[128] In January 2014, the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore issued a series of tax guidelines according to which bitcoin transactions may be treated as a barter exchange if it is used as a payment method for real goods and services. Businesses that deal with bitcoin currency exchanges will be taxed based on their bitcoin sales.[129]

In April 2019, the MAS referred to bitcoin as a digital payment token for purposes of the Payment Services Act.[130]

 Thailand Legal to trade and hold / Illegal as payment tool

Thai based bitcoin exchanges can only exchange Digital Currencies for Thai Baht and are required to operate with a Thailand Business Development Department e-commerce license. They are also required to have KYC and CDD policies and procedures in place, in accordance with the Ministerial Regulation Prescribing Rules and Procedures for Customer Due Diligence, Reference Page 8 Volume 129 Part 44 A Government Gazette 23 May 2555 (2012).[131]

Suspicious activity must be reported to the Anti-Money Laundering Office.[132]

As of 1 April 2022, the Thai government no longer allows cryptocurrencies to be used as payment for goods or services. The regulation doesn't prohibit owning or trading cryptocurrencies, although commercial banks have been cautioned against direct involvement in digital assets.[133]

 Vietnam Legal to trade and hold / Illegal as payment tool

The State Bank of Vietnam has declared that the issuance, supply and use of bitcoin and other similar virtual currency is illegal as a mean of payment and subject to punishment ranging from 150 million to 200 million VND,[134] but the government does not ban bitcoin trading as a virtual goods or assets.[135]

 Brunei Legal to trade and hold
Bitcoin and cryptocurrency is not legal tender in Brunei Darussalam and are not regulated by AMBD (Brunei Monetary Authority). It is not protected under the laws administered by AMBD.[136]

AMBD however, advised the public not to be easily enticed by any investment or financial activity advertisements, and to conduct due diligence and understand the financial products properly before participating. There is no law that stated that holding or trading bitcoin is illegal.[citation needed]

Europe

Central Europe

Country or territory Legality
 Austria Legal

Not considered to be an official form of currency, earnings are subject to tax law.

The Financial Market Authority (FMA) has warned investors that cryptocurrencies are risky and that the FMA does not supervise or regulate virtual currencies, including bitcoin, or cryptocurrency trading platforms.[14]: 30–31 

 Croatia Legal

Croatia's Financial Stability Council warned investors about the risks of virtual currencies, such as digital wallet theft and fraud, on 18 December 2017. The National Bank of Croatia issued a similar warning on 22 September 2017.[14]: 33 

 Czech Republic Legal

Businesses and individuals who buy, sell, store, manage, or mediate the purchase or sale of virtual currencies or provide similar services must comply with the anti-money laundering law.[14]: 33–34 

Bitcoin is classified as an intangible asset (not as electronic money) for the purpose of accounting and taxes.[137][138]

 Germany Legal

On 19 August 2013, the German Finance Ministry announced that bitcoin is now essentially a "unit of account" and can be used for the purpose of tax and trading in the country, meaning that purchases made with it must pay VAT as with euro transactions. It is not classified as a foreign currency or e–money but stands as "private money" which can be used in "multilateral clearing circles", according to the ministry.[139][140] The Bundesbank says that bitcoin is not a virtual currency or digital money. It recommends using the term "crypto token."[14]: 41 

In November 2019, a legislation passed by German parliament allows the banks to sell and store cryptocurrencies starting from 1 January 2020.[141]

 Hungary Legal
The Hungarian Central Bank, Magyar Nemzeti Bank (MNB) has issued several warnings over cryptocurrencies, stating that it is "much riskier" than other electronic payments such as credit cards.[142]
 Gibraltar Legal
Back in 2018, Gibraltar became the first country in the world to provide a tailored regulatory framework for businesses that use distributed ledger technology.[143] The travel rule was implemented through the Proceeds of Crime Act 2015 (Transfer of Virtual Assets) Regulations 2021 and has been in force since March 22, 2021.[144]
 Poland Legal

The use of bitcoin in Poland is not regulated by a legal act at present.[3]: Poland 

Szymon Woźniak of the Ministry of Finance made an official announcement on the legality of bitcoin on 18 December 2013 at a conference at the Warsaw School of Economics stating that the Ministry of Finance does not consider bitcoin illegal and does not want to hinder its development.[145] He clarified that while not illegal, bitcoin cannot be considered legal tender, and, in the light of the directives of the European Union, it is neither electronic money.[145] As of 27 January 2015, several banks have closed accounts of clients trading bitcoin, and indicated "presumption of criminal offense" as the cause, with "criminal offense" presumably being "cryptocurrency trade".[146] As of 7 July 2017, the National Bank of Poland (NBP) and Financial Supervision Authority (KNF) issued a comment on virtual "currencies".[147] They underlined that virtual currencies (including bitcoin): (1) are not issued or guaranteed by the central bank, (2) are not money, i.e. they are neither legal tender nor currency, (3) can not be used to pay tax liabilities, (4) do not meet the criterion of universal acceptability in shopping and service points, (5) are not electronic money, (6) are not payment services (in legal terms), (7) are not financial instruments (in legal terms). They added that trading virtual currencies in Poland does not violate national or EU law, however, having virtual "currencies", involves many risks: (1) risk related to the possibility of loss of funds due to theft, (2) risk related to lack of guarantee, (3) risk of lack of universal acceptability, (4) risk related to the possibility of fraud, (5) risk of high price change. Because of these risks, the NBP and KNF warn against buying virtual currencies and investing in them. The NBP and KNF recognize that the purchase, possession and sale of virtual currencies by entities supervised by the KNF (e.g. banks) would be burdened with high risk and would not ensure a stable and prudent management of the financial institution. Financial institutions should be cautious about engaging and cooperating with virtual currency "trading" entities.

 Romania Legal

The use of bitcoin is regulated by Law 210/2019.[148]

As of March 2015, an official statement of the Romanian National Bank mentioned that "using digital currencies as payment has certain risks for the financial system".[149]

In January 2019, Law nr. 30/2019 clarifies that starting in 2019, income from trading "virtual currency" is classified under "income from other sources". In addition, there is a new subpoint, Article 116. (2) c), specifying that the income tax of 10% is only applied on the "positive difference between the selling price and acquisition price" (and not to the entire received amount from a sale). In addition, profits under 200 RON per transaction that total under 600 RON during a fiscal year are exempt from tax.[150]

 Slovakia Legal

The National Bank of Slovakia (NBS), stated[151] that bitcoin does not have the legal attributes of a currency, and therefore it cannot be considered a currency.[note 1] European legislation, including the Slovak law, does not define the activities associated with virtual currency. Such activities are not regulated and supervised by the National Bank of Slovakia or the European Central Bank. At the same time NBS points out that any legal person or natural person in the Slovak Republic shall not issue any notes or any other coins. Unlawful manufacturing of banknotes and coins and putting them into circulation is punishable by law. In this context, NBS points out that virtual currencies have not a physical counterpart in the form of legal tender and participation in such a scheme (virtual currency) is at your own risk. Exchanges or purchases of virtual currencies represent the business risk of investors and investors' money are not protected. For any compensation of losses caused by such exchanges or purchases there is no legal entitlement.

 Slovenia Legal

On 23 December 2013 the Slovenian Ministry of Finance made an announcement[152] stating that bitcoin is neither a currency nor an asset. There is no capital gains tax chargeable on bitcoin, however bitcoin mining is taxed and businesses selling goods/services in bitcoin are also taxed.

  Switzerland Legal

Bitcoin businesses in Switzerland are subject to anti-money laundering regulations and in some instances may need to obtain a banking license.[153]

On 5 December 2013, a proposal was put forth by 45 members of the Swiss Parliament for digital sustainability (Pardigli), that calls on the Swiss government to evaluate the opportunities for utilization of bitcoin by the country's financial sector.[154] It also seeks clarification on bitcoin's legal standing with respect to VAT, securities and anti-money laundering laws.[155]

In response to the parliament postulates, the Swiss Federal Council issued a report on virtual currencies in June 2014.[156] The report states that since virtual currencies are not in a legal vacuum, the Federal Council has concluded that there is no need for legislative measures to be taken at the moment.

In 2016, Zug added bitcoin as a means of paying city fees, in a test and an attempt to advance Zug as a region that is advancing future technologies.[157] Swiss Federal Railways, government-owned railway company of Switzerland, sells bitcoins at its ticket machines.[158]

In 2018, FINMA stated that it would take a "balanced approach" towards the cryptocurrency industry and allow "legitimate innovators to navigate the regulatory landscape". By June 2021, a record number of 100 Exchange Traded Products (ETP) and crypto structured products were offered on the SIX Swiss Exchange with a total trading value of CHF 4.6 billion.[159]

Eastern Europe

Country or territory Legality
 Albania Legal

On 21 May 2020, Albania passed a new law to regulate cryptocurrency activities.[160]

 Belarus Legal

The Decree On the Development of Digital Economy — the decree of Alexander Lukashenko, the President of the Republic of Belarus, which includes measures to liberalize the conditions for conducting business in the sphere of high technologies.

The provisions of the decree "On the Development of Digital Economy" create of a legal basis for the circulation of digital currencies and tokens based on blockchain technology, so that resident companies of the High-Tech Park can provide the services of stock markets and exchange offices with cryptocurrencies and attract financing through the ICO. For legal entities, the Decree confers the rights to create and place their own tokens, carry out transactions through stock markets and exchange operators; to individuals the Decree gives the right to engage in mining, to own tokens, to acquire and change them for Belarusian rubels, foreign currency and electronic money, and to bequeath them. Up to 1 Jan In 2023, the Decree excludes revenue and profits from operations with tokens from the taxable base. In relation to individuals, the acquisition and sale of tokens is not considered entrepreneurial activity, and the tokens themselves and income from transactions with them are not subject to declaration. The peculiarity of the introduced regulation is that all operations will have to be carried out through the resident companies of the High-Tech Park.

In addition, the decree includes:

  • Extension of the validity period of the special legal regime of the High-Tech Park until 1 January 2049, and expansion of the list of activities of resident companies. Under the new rules, developers of blockchain-based solutions, developers of machine learning systems based on artificial neural networks, companies from the medical and biotechnological industries, developers of unmanned vehicles, as well as software developers and publishers can become residents. The list of promising areas is unlimited and can be expanded by the decision of the High-Tech Park supervisory board.
  • Preservation of existing benefits for resident companies in the High-Tech Park, including the cancellation of the profit tax (instead of which a contribution of 1% of the gross revenues proceeding to the administration of the park is applied), reduced to 9% of the personal income tax rate for employees, and the right to contribute to the Social Protection Fund according to the national average figures, and not the actual salaries.
  • Exemption of foreign companies providing marketing, advertising, consulting and other services to the residents of the High-Tech Park from paying value-added tax, as well as paying income tax, which allows to promote IT products of Belarusian companies in foreign markets. To encourage investments, the Decree also exempts foreign companies from the tax on income from the alienation of shares, stakes in the authorized capital and shares in the property of residents of the High-Tech Park (under condition of continuous possession of at least 365 days).
  • Introduction of individual English law institutions for residents of the High-Tech Park, which will make it possible to conclude option contracts, convertible loan agreements, non-competition agreements with employees, agreements with responsibility for enticing employees, irrevocable powers of attorney and other documents common in international practice. This measure is aimed at simplifying the structuring of transactions with foreign capital.
  • Simplification of the regime of currency transactions for residents of the High-Tech Park, including the introduction of a notification procedure for currency transactions, the cancellation of the mandatory written form of foreign trade transactions, the introduction of confirmation of the conducted operations by primary documents drawn up unilaterally. Also, the decree removes restrictions on resident companies for transactions with electronic money and allows opening accounts in foreign banks and credit and financial organizations without obtaining permission from the National Bank of the Republic of Belarus.
  • Simplification of the procedure for recruiting qualified foreign specialists by resident companies of the High-Tech Park, including the abolition of the recruitment permit, the simplified procedure for obtaining a work permit, and the visa-free regime for the founders and employees of resident companies with a term of continuous stay of up to 180 days.[citation needed]
 Georgia Legal

Based on the public decision issued by the Ministry of Finance of Georgia in 2019,[161] crypto, by its very nature, is not "sourced" in any specific geographical location, meaning that it is not considered "Georgian sourced". This type of income would come under the 0% tax on capital gains derived from crypto trading laws.[citation needed]

 Kosovo Ban on mining[162]

In January 2022, coinciding with an energy crisis, Kosovo outlawed all cryptocurrency mining. According to BBC News, cryptocurrency mining "is particularly popular in northern areas of Kosovo, where ethnic Serbs do not recognise the state's independence and refuse to pay electricity bills".[163]

 Russia Legal to mine Banking ban

As of 2014, from the point of view of the current Russian legislation, cryptocurrency is a monetary substitute. According to article 27 of the Federal Law "On the Central Bank of the Russian Federation (Bank of Russia)", the issue of monetary surrogates in the Russian Federation is prohibited.[164]

As of November 2016, bitcoins were "not illegal" according to the Federal Tax Service of Russia.[165] Deputy Finance Minister of the Russian Federation Alexei Moiseev said in September 2017 it's "probably illegal" to accept cryptocurrency payments.[166] However, bitcoin market sites are blocked, and court decisions state that bitcoin is a currency surrogate which is outlawed in the territory of the Russian Federation.[167]

In 2017, the Central Bank of Russia and Rosfinmonitoring in their informational appeals have repeatedly warned Russian citizens that all operations with cryptocurrency are speculative and carry a high risk of loss of value. The Central Bank of Russia states that: "Most operations with cryptocurrencies are performed outside the legal regulation of both the Russian Federation and most other states. Cryptocurrencies are not guaranteed or provided by the Bank of Russia."[168]

As of 2021, Putin said Russia accepts the role of cryptocurrencies, and that cryptocurrencies can be used for payment.[169]

In January 2022, the Central Bank of Russia proposed to ban "all cryptocurrency issuance and operations, stop banks from investing in cryptocurrencies, block exchanging crypto for traditional currency, and introduce legal liability for using crypto in purchases" citing systemic financial risk.[170] According to Bloomberg News and Meduza, the Federal Security Service convinced the Central Bank to ban cryptocurrencies in Russia, as they are used to finance the opposition and independent media.[171][172] In February 2022, the Russian government eventually announced it would support, legalize, and regulate cryptocurrencies, and not ban them.[173]

In July 2024, Russia regulated mining and allowed businesses to use cryptocurrencies in international trade while keeping the existing ban on domestic cryptocurrency payments.[174][175]

 Ukraine Legal / Illegal to buy with local currency

On 16 March 2022, the president of Ukraine signed the Virtual Asset Bill into law.[176] On 22 April, the Central Bank banned purchasing cryptocurrencies with local currency and made the monthly limit of $3300 for purchases with foreign currencies.[177]

Northern Europe

Country or territory Legality
 Denmark Legal

Denmark's Financial Supervisory Authority issued a statement declaring that bitcoin is not a currency and stating that it will not regulate its use.[3]: Denmark 

On 17 December 2013, Denmark's Financial Supervisory Authority (FSA) has issued a statement that echoes EBA's warning. As of 2017, FSA says that doing business with bitcoin does not fall under its regulatory authority and therefore FSA does not prevent anyone from opening such businesses.[178] FSA's chief legal adviser says that Denmark might consider amending existing financial legislation to cover virtual currencies.[179]

 Estonia Legal

In Estonia, the use of bitcoins is not regulated or otherwise controlled by the government.[3]: Estonia 

The Estonian Ministry of Finance have concluded that there is no legal obstacles to use bitcoin-like crypto currencies as payment method. Traders must therefore identify the buyer when establishing a business relationship or if the buyer acquires more than 1,000 euros of the currency in a month.[180]

 Finland Legal

The Finnish Tax Administration has issued instructions for the taxation of virtual currencies, including the bitcoin.[3]: Finland [181] Rather than a currency or a security, a bitcoin transaction is considered a private contract equivalent to a contract for difference for tax purposes. Purchases of goods with bitcoin or conversion of bitcoin into legal currency "realizes" the value and any increase in price will be taxable; however, losses are not tax-deductible. Mined bitcoin is considered earned income.[181]

Ruling 034/2014 by the Finnish Central Board of Taxes (CBT) stated that commission fees charged on bitcoin purchases by an exchange market were, under the EU VAT Directive, banking services and therefore VAT exempt. This is because the court classified bitcoins as payment instruments - whereas most countries treat their use as an unregulated method for the exchange of goods, or even as a crime.[182][183]

 Iceland Legal

According to a 2014 opinion, from the Central Bank of Iceland "there is no authorization to purchase foreign currency from financial institutions in Iceland or to transfer foreign currency across borders on the basis of transactions with virtual currency. For this reason alone, transactions with virtual currency are subject to restrictions in Iceland."[184] This does not stop[185] businesses in Iceland from mining bitcoins.[186] The Icelandic Central Bank confirmed that "it is prohibited to engage in foreign exchange trading with the electronic currency bitcoin, according to the Icelandic Foreign Exchange Act".[187]

On 12 March 2017, the Central Bank amended its rules. With the new rules, wide and general exemptions have been granted from the restrictions of the Foreign Exchange Act No. 87/1992.[188]

 Lithuania Legal

Bank of Lithuania released a warning on 31 January 2014, that bitcoin is not recognized as legal tender in Lithuania and that bitcoin users should be aware of the high risks that come with the usage of it.[189]

 Norway Legal

The Norwegian Tax Administration stated in December 2013 that they do not define bitcoin as money but regard it as an asset. Profits are subjected to wealth tax. In business, use of bitcoin falls under the sales tax regulation.[190]

The Norwegian government stated in February 2017 that they would not levy VAT on the purchase or sale of bitcoin.[191]

 Sweden Legal

The Swedish Tax Agency has given a preliminary ruling on Value Added Tax (VAT) on bitcoins, stating that trade in bitcoins is not subject to Swedish VAT, but is instead subject to the Finansinspektionen (Financial Supervisory Authority) regulations and treated as a currency. The decision has been appealed by the Swedish Tax Authority.[3]: Sweden 

The Swedish jurisdiction is in general quite favorable for bitcoin businesses and users as compared to other countries within the EU and the rest of the world. The governmental regulatory and supervisory body Swedish Financial Supervisory Authority (Finansinspektionen) have legitimized the fast growing industry by publicly proclaiming bitcoin and other digital currencies as a means of payment. For certain businesses interacting with fiat (mainly exchanges) the current regulation dictates that an application for approval/license must be filed and all the AML/CTF and KYC regulations applicable to more traditional financial service providers must be followed.

Southern Europe

Country or territory Legality
 Bosnia and Herzegovina Legal

No regulation on the use of bitcoins.

 Bulgaria Legal

There is not a single word in Bulgarian laws about bitcoin. People owe 10% tax if they made a profit trading.

 Cyprus Legal

The use of bitcoin is not regulated in Cyprus.[3]: Cyprus 

 Greece Legal

No specific legislation on bitcoins exists in Greece.[3]: Greece 

 Italy Legal

Italy does not regulate bitcoin use by private individuals.[3]: Italy 

 Malta Legal

As of 2017, Malta does not have any regulations specifically pertaining to bitcoins.[3]: Malta  In 2017, the country's prime minister Joseph Muscat announced the approval of a national strategy to promote bitcoin and blockchain technology. Muscat specifically addressed the bitcoin blockchain's ability to handle, store and process sensitive data in an immutable and decentralized ecosystem.[192]

 North Macedonia Legal

No specific legislation on bitcoins or cryptocurrency exists in North Macedonia.

In 2016, the National Bank of the Republic of North Macedonia published a press release regarding an investigation it made into ONECOIN, and discouraged the citizens from investing in it since it was most likely a scam. In the same press release, the NBRM quoted the law on Foreign Exchange Operations, but since cryptocurrencies do not constitute a foreign currency as they are quoted by the law, it leaves them unregulated.[193]

 Portugal Legal

In 2013, the Bank of Portugal stated that Bitcoin was not a safe currency, as their issuance lacked oversight or prudential requirements. As of 2014, Portugal had no specific legal framework for Bitcoin. [3]: Portugal 

 Spain Legal

Transactions in bitcoins are subject to the same laws as barter transactions.[3]: Spain 

Western Europe

Country or territory Legality
 Belgium Legal

In July 2013, the Minister of Finance expressed concerns over the use of Bitcoin for money laundering, but indicated that government intervention did not yet appear necessary.[3]: Belgium 

 France Legal

The French Ministry of Finance issued regulations on 11 July 2014 pertaining to the operation of virtual currency professionals, exchanges, and taxation.[194]

 Ireland Not regulated by central bank

The Central Bank of Ireland was quoted in Dáil Éireann in December 2013 as stating that it does not regulate bitcoin, and that bitcoin is not legal tender in the European Union.[3]: Ireland 

 Luxembourg Legal

The Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier has issued a communication in February 2014 acknowledging the status of currency to the bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies.[195] The first BitLicence was issued in October 2015.[196]

 Netherlands Legal

As of 2013, "alternative virtual currencies" such as bitcoin are not classified as money and do not fall within the scope of the Act on Financial Supervision of the Netherlands.[3]: Netherlands  When dealing with cryptocurrencies one must declare them and pay taxes to the Dutch Tax and Customs Administration.[197]

 United Kingdom Legal

As of 2013, the government of the United Kingdom has stated that bitcoin is unregulated and that it is treated as a 'foreign currency' for most purposes, including VAT/GST.[3]: United Kingdom 

Bitcoin is treated as 'private money'. When bitcoin is exchanged for sterling or for foreign currencies, such as euro or dollar, no VAT will be due on the value of the bitcoins themselves. However, in all instances, VAT will be due in the normal way from suppliers of any goods or services sold in exchange for bitcoin or other similar cryptocurrency. Profits and losses on cryptocurrencies are subject to capital gains tax.[198]

In March 2022, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) declared that all cryptocurrency ATMs in the country were illegal, as none of the ATM's operators had successfully registered with the agency. The FCA cited a failure to comply with know your customer laws, as well as the high risk to customers, due to a lack of regulation and protection.[199][200]

Oceania

Australasia

Country or territory Legality
 Australia Legal

In December 2013, the governor of the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) indicated in an interview about bitcoin legality stating, "There would be nothing to stop people in this country deciding to transact in some other currency in a shop if they wanted to. There's no law against that, so we do have competing currencies."[201] Beginning in April 2018, Australian digital currency exchanges must register with the Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre and implement "know your customer" policies to comply with new anti-money laundering legislation.[202]

 New Zealand Legal

The Reserve Bank of New Zealand states: "Non-banks do not need our approval for schemes that involve the storage and/or transfer of value (such as 'bitcoin') – so long as they do not involve the issuance of physical circulating currency (notes and coins)."[3]: New Zealand 

Melanesia

Country or territory Legality
 Fiji Yes Legal

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka is a proponent of cryptocurrencies and has even planned to make bitcoin legal tender as soon as 2023.[citation needed]

 Tuvalu Yes Legal

The government officially supports the use of blockchain technologies, including cryptocurrencies.[203]

 Vanuatu Yes Legal

Legalised in 2021.[204]

Micronesia

Country or territory Legality
 Marshall Islands Yes Legal

Decentralised autonomous organisations (DAOs), which are blockchain-based, are considered legal entities in the Marshall Islands.[citation needed]

 Palau Yes Legal

The use of cryptocurrencies is officially supported by the government.[205]

Polynesia

Country or territory Legality
 Samoa Yes Legal

The use of cryptocurrencies in Samoa is legal but discouraged by the Central Bank of Samoa.[citation needed]

 Tonga Yes Legal

Tonga plans to make bitcoin legal tender by the end of 2023. This has been planned since late 2021.[206]

See also

Footnotes

  1. ^ Translated from: "...bitcoin nespĺňa atribúty meny v právnom zmysle (jeho platnosť na určitom území nie je mocensky ustanovená, právny poriadok neupravuje jej obeh ani ochranu), zastávame názor, že ho nie je možné označovať za menu."

References

  1. ^ Assessing the Differences in Bitcoin & Other Cryptocurrency Legality Across National Jurisdictions Archived 3 June 2018 at the Wayback Machine Information Systems & Economics eJournal. Social Science Research Network (SSRN). Accessed 25 September 2017.
  2. ^ Crypto's Biggest Legal Problems Archived 29 September 2018 at the Wayback Machine Crypto Law Review. Accessed 25 September 2018.
  3. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y "Regulation of Bitcoin in Selected Jurisdictions". loc.gov. The Law Library of Congress, Global Legal Research Center. 2014. Archived from the original on 18 December 2021. Retrieved 15 January 2022.
  4. ^ "The exchange of traditional currencies for units of the 'bitcoin' virtual currency is exempt from VAT" (PDF). Court of Justice of the European Union. Archived (PDF) from the original on 25 June 2019. Retrieved 6 December 2016.
  5. ^ "Bitcoin currency exchange not liable for VAT taxes: top EU court". Reuters. 22 October 2015. Archived from the original on 25 September 2021. Retrieved 23 October 2015.
  6. ^ Bodoni, Stephanie; Thomson, Amy (22 October 2015). "EU's Top Court Rules That Bitcoin Exchange Is Tax-Free". BloombergBusiness. Bloomberg. Archived from the original on 14 November 2018. Retrieved 23 October 2015.
  7. ^ a b European Central Bank (October 2012). Virtual Currency Schemes (PDF). Frankfurt am Main: European Central Bank. ISBN 978-92-899-0862-7. Archived (PDF) from the original on 24 December 2013. Retrieved 5 March 2014.
  8. ^ a b Szczepański, Marcin (November 2014). "Bitcoin: Market, economics and regulation" (PDF). European Parliamentary Research Service. Annex B: Bitcoin regulation or plans therefor in selected countries. Members' Research Service. p. 9. Retrieved 18 February 2015.
  9. ^ "EBA Opinion on 'virtual currencies'" (PDF). European Banking Authority. 4 July 2014. p. 46. Archived (PDF) from the original on 18 September 2019. Retrieved 8 July 2014.
  10. ^ "MEPs call for virtual currency watchdog to combat money laundering and terrorism - News - European Parliament". Europarl.europa.eu. 26 May 2016. Archived from the original on 20 October 2021. Retrieved 22 March 2019.
  11. ^ Crisostomo, Angelica; Smith, Gordon; Langley, William (18 January 2022). "FirstFT: EU should ban energy-intensive mode of crypto mining, regulator says". Financial Times. Archived from the original on 28 January 2022. Retrieved 28 January 2022.
  12. ^ "Guidance for a Risk-Based Approach: Prepaid Cards, Mobile Payments and Internet-based Payment Services" (PDF). Guidance for a risk-based approach. Paris: Financial Action Task Force (FATF). June 2013. p. 47. Archived (PDF) from the original on 24 September 2015. Retrieved 6 March 2014.
  13. ^ "Journal Officiel de la Republique Algerienne Democratique et Populaire" (PDF). Archived (PDF) from the original on 23 December 2021. Retrieved 3 January 2019.
  14. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p "Regulation of Cryptocurrency Around the World". Library of Congress. The Law Library of Congress, Global Legal Research Center. June 2018. Archived from the original on 16 December 2021. Retrieved 14 August 2018.
  15. ^ Regulation of Cryptocurrency Around the World (PDF) (Report) (Nov 2021 Update ed.). November 2021. p. 18. Retrieved 13 July 2024.
  16. ^ "COMMUNIQUE DE PRESSE CONJOINT DU MINISTERE DE L'ECONOMIE ET DES FINANCES, DE BANK AL MAGHRIB ET DE L'AUTORITE MAROCAINE DU MARCHE DES CAPITAUX SUR L'USAGE DES MONNAIES VIRTUELLES" (PDF). Archived from the original (PDF) on 16 May 2018. Retrieved 3 January 2019.
  17. ^ "Le digital, champ de bataille de Bank Al-Maghrib en 2018". Archived from the original on 4 January 2019. Retrieved 3 January 2019.
  18. ^ Opeyemi, Adeola (18 January 2017). "They are not legal tenders in Nigeria - CBN bans bitcoin, onecoin, others". Legit.ng. Archived from the original on 12 September 2017. Retrieved 22 March 2019.
  19. ^ Chuba, Cassandra (9 August 2017). "Why Nigeria has not adopted Bitcoin technology – CBN". Today.ng. Archived from the original on 18 October 2021. Retrieved 22 March 2019.
  20. ^ Letter to Banks on Crypto (PDF). Central Bank of Nigeria. 5 February 2021. Archived (PDF) from the original on 22 October 2021. Retrieved 5 February 2021.
  21. ^ Ndalu, Dorothy (18 November 2019). "Tanzania: Bank of Tanzania Warns Against Crypto Currencies". allAfrica.com. Archived from the original on 18 April 2021. Retrieved 18 April 2021.
  22. ^ "PUBLIC NOTICEON CRYPTOCURRENCIES" (PDF) (Press release). Bank of Tanzania. November 2019. Retrieved 18 April 2021.
  23. ^ Central African Republic adopts bitcoin as legal currency Archived 27 April 2022 at the Wayback Machine, 27 April 2022
  24. ^ "Frequently Asked Questions on Central African Republic". International Monetary Fund. Retrieved 11 August 2023.
  25. ^ "Recognition of Digital Assets as an asset-class for investment by Sophisticated and Expert Investors" (PDF). Financial Services Commission (Mauritius). 17 September 2018. Archived (PDF) from the original on 18 October 2021. Retrieved 8 January 2020.
  26. ^ Televisão Pública de Angola (13 September 2019). "BITCOINS - Especialistas desaconselham em Angola". TPA Online (in Portuguese). YouTube. Archived from the original on 16 February 2022. Retrieved 7 January 2020.
  27. ^ "Position Paper on Virtual Currencies" (PDF). South African Reserve Bank. Archived from the original (PDF) on 22 December 2018. Retrieved 3 September 2016.
  28. ^ Rangongo, Timothy (April 2018). "Own bitcoin or ethereum? Sars is coming for you". Business Insider. Archived from the original on 18 October 2021. Retrieved 22 May 2018.
  29. ^ "Position on Distributed Ledger Technologies and Virtual Currencies in Namibia" (PDF). Bank of Namibia. Archived from the original (PDF) on 17 November 2017. Retrieved 17 November 2017.
  30. ^ a b "Regulation of Cryptocurrency Around the World" (PDF). Library of Congress. The Law Library of Congress, Global Legal Research Center. November 2021. Archived (PDF) from the original on 30 January 2022. Retrieved 9 February 2022.
  31. ^ Canada, Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of (28 March 2017). "Money services businesses (MSBs)". Fintrac-canafe.gc.ca. Archived from the original on 26 June 2019. Retrieved 5 September 2017.
  32. ^ financiers, L'Autorité des marchés. "Virtual currency ATMs and trading platforms must be authorized". Autorité des marchés financiers. Archived from the original on 9 December 2018. Retrieved 5 September 2017.
  33. ^ Reiff, Nathan. "Canada Banks Ban Users From Buying Cryptocurrency". Investopedia. Archived from the original on 18 October 2021. Retrieved 22 March 2019.
  34. ^ "TD Bank stops allowing use of credit cards to buy cryptocurrencies". Cbc.ca. Archived from the original on 18 October 2021. Retrieved 22 March 2019.
  35. ^ "Statement of Jennifer Shasky Calvery, Director Financial Crimes Enforcement Network United States Department of the Treasury Before the United States Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Subcommittee on National Security and International Trade and Finance Subcommittee on Economic Policy". fincen.gov. Financial Crimes Enforcement Network. 19 November 2013. Archived from the original on 9 July 2019. Retrieved 1 June 2014.
  36. ^ "IRS Virtual Currency Guidance : Virtual Currency Is Treated as Property for U.S. Federal Tax Purposes; General Rules for Property Transactions Apply". Irs.gov. Archived from the original on 22 August 2017. Retrieved 22 April 2017.
  37. ^ a b Farquhar, Peter (22 June 2018). "The US Supreme Court just spoke about a bitcoin future for the first time". Archived from the original on 22 June 2018. Retrieved 22 June 2018. Does a stock option received by an employee (along with, say, a paycheck) count as a 'form'—some form, 'any form'—of 'money remuneration?' The railroads, as the majority notes, believe they can find the answer to this question by engaging in (and winning) a war of 1930's dictionaries. I am less sanguine. True, some of those dictionaries say that 'money' primarily refers to currency or promissory documents used as 'a medium of exchange.' See ante, at 2–3. But even this definition has its ambiguities. A railroad employee cannot use her paycheck as a 'medium of exchange.' She cannot hand it over to a cashier at the grocery store; she must first deposit it. The same is true of stock, which must be converted into cash and deposited in the employee's account before she can enjoy its monetary value. Moreover, what we view as money has changed over time. Cowrie shells once were such a medium but no longer are, see J. Weatherford, The History of Money 24 (1997); our currency originally included gold coins and bullion, but, after 1934, gold could not be used as a medium of exchange, see Gold Reserve Act of 1934, ch. 6, §2, 48 Stat. 337; perhaps one day employees will be paid in Bitcoin or some other type of cryptocurrency,...
  38. ^ a b "Prepared Remarks of FinCEN Director Kenneth A. Blanco, delivered at the 2018 Chicago-Kent Block (Legal) Tech Conference". Fincen.gov. U.S. Department of the Treasury. 9 August 2018. Archived from the original on 15 October 2021. Retrieved 13 August 2018.
  39. ^ "Bitcoin is money, U.S. judge says in case tied to JPMorgan hack". Reuters. 20 September 2016. Archived from the original on 22 June 2018. Retrieved 22 March 2019.
  40. ^ "Regulación sobre bitcoin avanza con Ley Fintech". Elfinanciero.com.mx. 4 April 2017. Archived from the original on 8 March 2021. Retrieved 22 March 2019.
  41. ^ "Posición del Banco Central de Costa Rica (BCCR) y sus Órganos de Desconcentración Máxima (ODM) con respecto a las criptomonedas". Banco Central de Costa Rica. 9 October 2017. Archived from the original on 25 May 2022. Retrieved 15 January 2022.
  42. ^ El Salvador, primer país del mundo en reconocer al Bitcoin como moneda de curso legal Archived 22 December 2021 at the Wayback Machine, 9 June 2021, official website of the Legislative Assembly of El Salvador
  43. ^ "Diputados oficialistas aprueban el Bitcoin como moneda de curso legal, ¿en qué consiste?". El Salvador. 8 June 2021. Archived from the original on 18 October 2021. Retrieved 9 June 2021.
  44. ^ "El Salvador Becomes First Country to Adopt Bitcoin as National Currency". The Wall Street Journal. 7 September 2021. Archived from the original on 7 September 2021. Retrieved 7 September 2021.
  45. ^ "El Salvador bought $21 million of bitcoin as it becomes first country to make it a legal currency". CNBC. 7 September 2021. Archived from the original on 18 October 2021. Retrieved 7 September 2021.
  46. ^ Roy, Avik (7 October 2021). "In El Salvador, More People Have Bitcoin Wallets Than Traditional Bank Accounts". Forbes. Archived from the original on 18 October 2021. Retrieved 10 October 2021.
  47. ^ "Bitcoin use in El Salvador grows amid setbacks since its adoption as legal tender". NBC News. 7 October 2021. Archived from the original on 18 October 2021. Retrieved 12 October 2021.
  48. ^ "Bank of Jamaica building awareness of cryptocurrencies". Jamaica Information Service. Archived from the original on 24 May 2022. Retrieved 9 October 2017.
  49. ^ "Bank of Jamaica Electronic Retail Payments Service" (PDF). Bank of Jamaica. Archived (PDF) from the original on 12 March 2016. Retrieved 10 October 2017.
  50. ^ "Central Bank of Trinidad and Tobago Statement on Financial Technology and Virtual Currencies" (PDF). central-bank.org.tt. Central Bank of Trinidad & Tobago. 15 November 2018. Archived (PDF) from the original on 8 March 2021. Retrieved 8 June 2020.
  51. ^ "El BCRA le prohibió a los bancos ofrecer criptomonedas a sus clientes". LA NACION (in Spanish). 5 May 2022. Archived from the original on 10 November 2022. Retrieved 6 May 2022.
  52. ^ Cuthbertson, Anthony (20 June 2014). "Cryptocurrency Round-Up: Bolivian Bitcoin Ban, iOS Apps & Dogecoin at McDonald's". ibtimes.co.uk. International Business Times. Archived from the original on 24 September 2015. Retrieved 23 February 2015.
  53. ^ "COMUNICADO Nº 25.306, DE 19 DE FEVEREIRO DE 2014". Banco Central do Brasil. 19 February 2014. Archived from the original on 27 April 2019. Retrieved 11 September 2016.
  54. ^ "Comunicado nº 31.379, de 16/11/2017". Bcb.gov.br (in Brazilian Portuguese). Archived from the original on 26 July 2018. Retrieved 17 November 2017.
  55. ^ "INSTRUÇÃO NORMATIVA RFB Nº 1888, DE 03 DE MAIO DE 2019". Receita Federal de Brasil. 3 May 2019. Archived from the original on 30 November 2020. Retrieved 4 March 2021.
  56. ^ "Regulation of Cryptocurrency Around the World: November 2021 Update" (PDF). Law Library of Congress. Archived (PDF) from the original on 24 December 2021. Retrieved 26 December 2021.
  57. ^ "COMUNICADO OFICIAL SOBRE EL USO DEL BITCOIN". www.bce.fin.ec. Archived from the original on 3 February 2021. Retrieved 7 February 2021.
  58. ^ Teodoro, Carlos (27 July 2018). "Venezuelan government announces new monetary cone pegged to Petro". Crypto Economy. Archived from the original on 8 October 2018. Retrieved 27 July 2018.
  59. ^ Yapur, Nicolle; Itriago Acosta, Andreina (21 June 2023). "Venezuela's Ban on Crypto Mining Is Ruining the Industry It Once Embraced". Bloomberg.com. Archived from the original on 22 June 2023. Retrieved 15 October 2023.
  60. ^ Taliban Ban Crypto in Afghanistan, Arrest Dealers of Tokens Archived 1 July 2023 at the Wayback Machine, 26 August 2022
  61. ^ "Kyrgyzstan and Crypto Business". en.kyrgyzbusiness.com. International Finance Centre Development Agency. 2018. Archived from the original on 4 April 2018. Retrieved 4 April 2018.
  62. ^ "New report on Legal Status of Blockchain Commerce in the Kyrgyz Republic released". akipress.com. AKIpress News Agency. 2018. Archived from the original on 4 April 2018. Retrieved 4 April 2018.
  63. ^ "Warning of the National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic on the spread and use of the "virtual currency", in particular, bitcoins (bitcoin)". nbkr.kg. National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic. 18 July 2014. Archived from the original on 22 February 2015. Retrieved 23 February 2015.
  64. ^ "decree "On measures to organize the activities of crypto-exchanges in Uzbekistan", № ПП-3926 from September 2nd 2018" (PDF). Static.nora.uz. Archived (PDF) from the original on 15 September 2018. Retrieved 15 September 2018.
  65. ^ Carpenter, Claudia (12 February 2018). "Journalist". Bloomberg.com. Archived from the original on 13 February 2018. Retrieved 13 February 2018.
  66. ^ "World's First Deep Cold Storage for Crypto-Commodities Launched by Regal Assets in Dubai". Dmcc.ae. 13 February 2018. Archived from the original on 14 August 2018. Retrieved 14 August 2018.
  67. ^ "UAE announces new regulations for licensing crypto assets". Keystone Law Dubai. Archived from the original on 16 April 2021. Retrieved 16 April 2021.
  68. ^ "Regulation in Arabic" (PDF). Archived (PDF) from the original on 21 January 2021. Retrieved 16 April 2021.
  69. ^ "Regulation in English" (PDF). Archived (PDF) from the original on 28 November 2020. Retrieved 16 April 2021.
  70. ^ "MoU signed between SCA and DMCC | News | Media Center | Securities and Commodities Authority". Archived from the original on 25 July 2021. Retrieved 16 April 2021.
  71. ^ "Bitcoin Israel - Q & A | Dave Wolf & Co. Law Offices". Lawfirmwolf.com. Archived from the original on 25 August 2018. Retrieved 6 July 2017.
  72. ^ Israeli Tax Authorities (2017). "Taxation of Cryptocurrency" (PDF). Taxes.gov.il. Archived (PDF) from the original on 24 June 2019. Retrieved 21 August 2017.
  73. ^ "تعرف على خطر عملة "بيتكوين" ولماذا منعتها السعودية". العربية (in Arabic). 4 July 2017. Archived from the original on 22 June 2023. Retrieved 21 June 2023.
  74. ^ a b Knutsen, Elise (24 February 2014). "Despite warnings, Bitcoin gains toehold in region". dailystar.com.lb. The Daily Star. Archived from the original on 2 September 2018. Retrieved 17 June 2015. [In February of 2014] the Central Bank of Jordan issued a warning against the currency, becoming the second government in the region to do so after Lebanon.
  75. ^ a b Obeidat, Omar (22 February 2014). "Central bank warns against using bitcoin". The Jordan Times. Archived from the original on 28 April 2015. Retrieved 11 March 2014.
  76. ^ "ÖDEMELERDE KRİPTO VARLIKLARIN KULLANILMAMASINA DAİR YÖNETMELİK" (Press release). Central Bank of the Republic of Turkey. 16 April 2021. Retrieved 16 April 2021.
  77. ^ Toksabay, Ece (16 April 2021). "Bitcoin tumbles after Turkey bans crypto payments citing risks". Reuters. Archived from the original on 16 April 2021. Retrieved 16 April 2021.
  78. ^ "Bitcoin trading prohibited in Qatar: Central Bank". thepeninsulaqatar.com. 7 February 2018. Archived from the original on 6 February 2021. Retrieved 25 March 2021.
  79. ^ "Iran central bank bans cryptocurrency dealings". Reuters. 22 April 2018. Archived from the original on 22 June 2023. Retrieved 22 June 2023.
  80. ^ AFP (15 September 2014). "Why Bangladesh will jail Bitcoin traders". telegraph.co.uk. The Telegraph. Archived from the original on 12 January 2022. Retrieved 23 February 2015.
  81. ^ "Bangladesh Bank to CID: Trading, owning cryptocurrency not illegal". dhakatribune.com. Dhaka Tribune. 27 July 2021. Archived from the original on 30 January 2023. Retrieved 30 January 2023.
  82. ^ Anand, Nupur. "Arun Jaitley has just killed India's cryptocurrency party". Quartz. Archived from the original on 1 February 2018. Retrieved 1 February 2018.
  83. ^ "India bans crypto-currency trades". BBC. 6 April 2018. Archived from the original on 21 January 2019. Retrieved 20 February 2019.
  84. ^ "Challenge to cryptocurrencies". 1, Law Street. 17 February 2019. Archived from the original on 20 February 2019. Retrieved 20 February 2019.
  85. ^ Mathur, Aneesha. "Supreme Court quashes RBI ban on cryptocurrency trade". India Today. Archived from the original on 30 January 2021. Retrieved 4 March 2020.
  86. ^ "Supreme Court Lifts Ban on Cryptocurrency Trading in India". The Quint. 4 March 2020. Archived from the original on 4 March 2020. Retrieved 4 March 2020.
  87. ^ "India might ban private cryptocurrencies like bitcoin and develop a national digital coin". CNBC. 30 January 2021. Archived from the original on 5 February 2021. Retrieved 6 February 2021.
  88. ^ "RBI Lost Case on Cryptocurrency in Supreme Court, It Must Stop Behaving Like Sore Loser". 18 September 2021. Archived from the original on 24 January 2022. Retrieved 24 January 2022.
  89. ^ Perumal, Prashanth (2 June 2021). "Future of cryptocurrency in India continues to hang in the balance". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 24 January 2022. Retrieved 24 January 2022.
  90. ^ "From ban to regulation, cryptocurrency's journey so far in India". 2 February 2022. Archived from the original on 24 January 2022. Retrieved 24 January 2022.
  91. ^ "SC verdict on cryptocurrencies: What it means for investors". 25 March 2020. Archived from the original on 24 January 2022. Retrieved 24 January 2022.
  92. ^ "Why is the Indian government cracking down on cryptocurrency? | DW | 16.12.2021". Deutsche Welle. Archived from the original on 28 January 2022. Retrieved 24 January 2022.
  93. ^ "The Crypto Effect : Framework, challenges & the way forward". 15 January 2022. Archived from the original on 24 January 2022. Retrieved 24 January 2022.
  94. ^ "नपालमा Bitcoin लगायतका Cryptocurrency हरको कारोबार गरन पाइनछ/पाइदन ?" [Can Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies be used in Nepal?] (in Nepali). Nepal Rastra Bank. Archived from the original on 9 September 2021. Retrieved 9 September 2021.
  95. ^ Tanoli, Ishaq (18 December 2020). "State Bank never declared cryptocurrency illegal, SHC told". Dawn. Archived from the original on 22 January 2021.
  96. ^ Khurshid, Jamal (18 December 2020). "SBP did not declare crypto currency illegal, SHC told". TheNews. Archived from the original on 22 January 2021.
  97. ^ "CAUTION REGARDING RISKS OF VIRTUAL CURRENCIES" (PDF). 2018. Archived (PDF) from the original on 6 March 2021.
  98. ^ "Two held in Shangla for money laundering through bitcoin". Dawn. 23 January 2020. Archived from the original on 23 January 2021.
  99. ^ "KP Government Legalizes Cryptocurrency: Zia Ullah Bangash". Business Recorder. 3 December 2020. Archived from the original on 21 January 2021.
  100. ^ "China Bans Financial Companies From Bitcoin Transactions". Bloomberg.com. Bloomberg. 5 December 2013. Archived from the original on 7 January 2015. Retrieved 16 December 2013.
  101. ^ Chao Deng; Lingling Wei (1 April 2014). "China Cracks Down on Bitcoin". WSJ.com. Dow Jones & Company. Archived from the original on 27 March 2020. Retrieved 8 November 2014.
  102. ^ a b "Regulation of Cryptocurrency: C'". Library of Congress. 12 July 2018. Archived from the original on 29 September 2018. Retrieved 29 September 2018.
  103. ^ Russell, John (9 January 2018). "China is reportedly moving to clamp down on bitcoin miners". TechCrunch. Archived from the original on 10 January 2018. Retrieved 10 January 2018.
  104. ^ Chen, Jia (5 January 2018). "PBOC gets tougher on bitcoin". China Daily. Archived from the original on 10 January 2018. Retrieved 10 January 2018.
  105. ^ John, Alun; Shen, Samuel; Wilson, Tom (24 September 2021). "China's top regulators ban crypto trading and mining, sending bitcoin tumbling". Reuters. Archived from the original on 20 September 2022. Retrieved 24 September 2021.
  106. ^ "比特币不受金管局监管 (Bitcoin is not regulated by HKMA)". Ta Kung Pao. 16 November 2013. Archived from the original on 27 October 2016. Retrieved 18 January 2014.
  107. ^ "Hong Kong's renewed stance on virtual assets, security tokens and retail investors | Davis Polk". www.davispolk.com. 8 November 2022. Retrieved 3 June 2024.
  108. ^ Authority, Hong Kong Monetary. "Hong Kong Monetary Authority - New Fintech Promotion Roadmap: Opening Remarks at the Seminar on Distributed Ledger Technology - Unlocking the Potential of DLT in Financial Services". Hong Kong Monetary Authority. Retrieved 10 June 2024.
  109. ^ "Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau : A new phase in virtual asset regulation". www.fstb.gov.hk. Retrieved 10 June 2024.
  110. ^ "Ripple focused on markets with clear rules as ambiguity remains in US after win". South China Morning Post. 23 July 2023. Retrieved 10 June 2024.
  111. ^ Standard, The. "Crypto oversight won't hurt market: Chan". The Standard. Retrieved 3 June 2024.
  112. ^ "Hong Kong wants crypto investors to remain wary as exchanges rush for licence". South China Morning Post. 5 February 2024. Retrieved 3 June 2024.
  113. ^ "The First Governmental View: Bitcoin is not Currency (in Japanese)". Nikkei Inc. 7 March 2014. Archived from the original on 2 April 2019. Retrieved 28 March 2014.
  114. ^ "Regulation of Cryptocurrency". Library of Congress. June 2018. Archived from the original on 21 September 2018. Retrieved 7 September 2018. Public Domain This article incorporates text from this source, which is in the public domain.
  115. ^ "ADVISORY-References to bitcoin as 'legal tender' in Japan". Reuters. 13 December 2017. Archived from the original on 6 June 2021. Retrieved 6 June 2021.
  116. ^ "Regulation of Cryptocurrency Around the World" (PDF). Library of Congress. June 2018. Archived (PDF) from the original on 14 August 2018. Retrieved 29 September 2018.
  117. ^ Brian Newar (5 March 2020). "Amendment to Special Reporting Act Passes – Cryptocurrency Now Fully Legal in South Korea". TheNews.Asia. Archived from the original on 10 February 2021. Retrieved 16 July 2020.
  118. ^ Hsu, Crystal (31 December 2013). "Regulators warn against using bitcoins". Taipei Times. Archived from the original on 15 December 2018. Retrieved 17 April 2017.
  119. ^ Crystal, Hsu (31 December 2013). "Regulators warn against using bitcoins". Taipei Times. Archived from the original on 15 December 2018. Retrieved 15 October 2015.
  120. ^ Shu, Catherine (5 January 2014). "Taiwan's Government Says No To Bitcoin ATMs". TechCrunch. Archived from the original on 24 June 2019. Retrieved 18 January 2014.
  121. ^ Hikam, Herdi Alif Al (11 November 2021). "MUI: Kripto Sebagai Mata Uang Hukumnya Haram!". detikfinance (in Indonesian). Archived from the original on 11 November 2021. Retrieved 11 November 2021.
  122. ^ "Mengenal UU PPSK, Omnibus Law Keuangan yang Juga Mengatur Aset Kripto - Sejarah Ekonomi Katadata.co.id". katadata.co.id (in Indonesian). 16 December 2022. Archived from the original on 17 December 2022. Retrieved 17 December 2022.
  123. ^ "Bank Negara's Officially Unofficial Statement on Bitcoin is No Statement". Betanomics.asia. Archived from the original on 4 September 2014. Retrieved 21 September 2014.
  124. ^ "Statement on Bitcoin". Bank Negara Malaysia. 6 January 2014. Archived from the original on 17 July 2018. Retrieved 2 March 2014.
  125. ^ Fuad, Madiha (6 January 2014). "BNM warns on Bitcoin risks". The Edge (Malaysia). Archived from the original on 11 January 2014. Retrieved 11 January 2014.
  126. ^ Espenilla, Jr., Nestor (6 February 2017). "Guidelines for Virtual Currency (VC) Exchanges — BSP Circular 944 Series of 2017" (PDF). Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (Central Bank of the Philippines). Archived (PDF) from the original on 16 May 2017. Retrieved 7 May 2017.
  127. ^ Irene Tham (22 September 2013). "Bitcoin users beware: MAS | AsiaOne Business". Business.asiaone.com. Archived from the original on 24 December 2013. Retrieved 27 December 2013.
  128. ^ Terence Lee (23 December 2013). "Singapore government decides not to interfere with Bitcoin". Techinasia.com. Archived from the original on 26 December 2013. Retrieved 27 December 2013.
  129. ^ Tay, Liz (9 January 2014). "Singaporean Tax Authorities Have Issued Guidance On Bitcoin-Related Sales And Earnings". Business Insider (Australia). Archived from the original on 20 September 2018. Retrieved 11 January 2014.
  130. ^ "MAS - A Guide to Digital Token Offerings" Archived 10 August 2019 at the Wayback Machine.
  131. ^ "Ministerial Regulation Prescribing Rules and Procedures for Customer Due Diligence" (PDF). Tgia.org. 23 May 2012. Archived (PDF) from the original on 1 May 2015. Retrieved 30 October 2017.
  132. ^ "Anti Money Laundering Office Thailand". Amlo.go.th. Archived from the original on 11 September 2018. Retrieved 29 October 2017.
  133. ^ "Govt bars use of cryptocurrencies as method of payment". Bangkok Post. Bloomberg. 23 March 2022. Archived from the original on 1 July 2023. Retrieved 23 March 2022.
  134. ^ ONLINE, TUOI TRE (28 October 2017). "Ngân hàng nhà nước tuyên bố cấm sử dụng bitcoin". TUOI TRE ONLINE. Archived from the original on 10 June 2021. Retrieved 10 June 2021.
  135. ^ "Thanh toán, giao dịch bitcoin vẫn sôi động". Báo Thanh Niên. 6 November 2017. Archived from the original on 1 July 2023. Retrieved 10 June 2021.
  136. ^ "Press Release" (PDF). Ambd.gov.bn. Archived from the original (PDF) on 15 December 2018. Retrieved 12 December 2018.
  137. ^ "Bitcoiny a právo: do jaké škatulky kryptoměnu zařadit?". Archived from the original on 14 December 2017. Retrieved 14 December 2017.
  138. ^ "Sdělení Ministerstva financí k účtování a vykazování digitálních měn". Mfcr.cz. Ministerstvo financí České republiky. 15 May 2018. Archived from the original on 23 May 2018. Retrieved 22 May 2018.
  139. ^ Clinch, Matt (19 August 2013). "Bitcoin recognized by Germany as 'private money'". CNBC. Archived from the original on 17 June 2019. Retrieved 18 January 2014.
  140. ^ Dillet, Romain (19 August 2013). "Germany Recognizes Bitcoin As "Private Money", Sales Tax Coming Soon". TechCrunch. Archived from the original on 18 February 2019. Retrieved 8 August 2017.
  141. ^ "Gesetz zur Umsetzung der Änderungsrichtlinie zur Vierten EU-Geldwäscherichtlinie". Bundesrat (in German). 15 November 2019. Archived from the original on 9 December 2019. Retrieved 30 November 2019.
  142. ^ "Hungary - Bitcoinregulation.world". www.bitcoinregulation.world. Archived from the original on 18 September 2018. Retrieved 18 September 2018.
  143. ^ "Gibraltar's DLT Framework Is Considered "Key to Achieving Regulatory Cer-tainty" For Gibraltar Licensed BITSO As the Firm Raises US$255m - 367/2021". Archived from the original on 28 September 2022. Retrieved 14 June 2022.
  144. ^ "PROCEEDS OF CRIME ACT 2015 (TRANSFER OF VIRTUAL ASSETS) REGULATIONS 2021" (PDF). Archived (PDF) from the original on 23 May 2022. Retrieved 14 June 2022.
  145. ^ a b "MinFin: Bitcoin nie jest nielegalny". Puls Biznesu. 18 December 2013. Archived from the original on 5 April 2019. Retrieved 18 December 2013.
  146. ^ "Banks closed current accounts for Bitcoin trade" (in Polish). bankier.pl. 27 January 2015. Archived from the original on 2 April 2019. Retrieved 28 January 2015.
  147. ^ "Komunikat Narodowego Banku Polskiego i Komisji Nadzoru Finansowego w sprawie "walut" wirtualnych" (in Polish). nbp.pl. 7 July 2017. Archived from the original on 29 March 2019. Retrieved 31 July 2017.
  148. ^ "LEGE 210 08/11/2019 - Portal Legislativ". legislatie.just.ro. Retrieved 9 September 2024.
  149. ^ "Banca Naţională a României". www.bnr.ro. Archived from the original on 4 September 2018. Retrieved 3 February 2016.
  150. ^ "Legea nr. 227/2015 privind Codul fiscal - ART. 116 - Declararea, stabilirea și plata impozitului pentru unele venituri din alte surse". Archived from the original on 20 February 2019. Retrieved 19 February 2019.
  151. ^ "Niekoľko úvah k virtuálnej mene bitcoin" (PDF). Slovak National Bank. Archived from the original (PDF) on 2 April 2015. Retrieved 24 March 2015.
  152. ^ "Davčna obravnava poslovanja z virtualno valuto po ZDoh-2 in ZDDPO-2 | Davčna uprava RS" (in Slovenian). Durs.gov.si. 23 December 2013. Archived from the original on 28 March 2014. Retrieved 27 December 2013.
  153. ^ "Fact sheet Status: Bitcoins" (PDF). finma.ch/. FINMA: Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority. 25 June 2014. Archived from the original (PDF) on 11 February 2015. Retrieved 26 February 2015. The use of bitcoins as a means of paying for goods and services in Switzerland is not regulated
  154. ^ "Swiss Parliament: Rechtssicherheit für Bitcoin schaffen". Federal Assembly. Archived from the original on 24 December 2013. Retrieved 27 December 2013.
  155. ^ "Swiss Parliament: Bitcoin and AML". Federal Assembly. Archived from the original on 16 April 2014. Retrieved 16 April 2014.
  156. ^ "Federal Council report on virtual currencies in response to the Schwaab (13.3687) and Weibel (13.4070) postulates" (PDF). Federal Council (Switzerland). Swiss Confederation. 25 June 2014. Archived (PDF) from the original on 25 March 2016. Retrieved 28 November 2014.
  157. ^ Uhlig/jse, Christian (1 July 2016). "Alpine 'Crypto Valley' pays with Bitcoins". DW Finance. Archived from the original on 20 September 2016. Retrieved 20 September 2016.
  158. ^ "SBB: Make quick and easy purchases with Bitcoin". Sbb.ch. Archived from the original on 15 January 2017. Retrieved 5 January 2017.
  159. ^ "Schweizer Börse kotiert bereits das hundertste Kryptoprodukt" Archived 11 June 2021 at the Wayback Machine (in German). Tages Anzeiger (Wirtschaft). Retrieved 11 June 2021.
  160. ^ "Albanian Parliament approves comprehensive regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies". TemA. 21 May 2020. Archived from the original on 2 February 2021. Retrieved 3 December 2020.
  161. ^ "კრიპტოაქტივის და მის მოსაპოვებლად გამოთვლითი სიჩქარის (სიმძლავრის) მიწოდების ოპერაციების გადასახადებით დაბეგვრის თაობაზე - Matsne.gov.ge". 28 June 2019. Archived from the original on 21 October 2021.
  162. ^ "Panic as Kosovo pulls the plug on its energy-guzzling bitcoin miners". the Guardian. 16 January 2022. Archived from the original on 21 January 2022. Retrieved 22 January 2022.
  163. ^ "Kosovo bans cryptocurrency mining after blackouts". BBC News. 5 January 2022. Archived from the original on 6 January 2022. Retrieved 6 January 2022.
  164. ^ "On the use of private "virtual currencies" (cryptocurrencies)". Press Service of The Central Bank of Russia. 27 January 2014. Archived from the original on 12 September 2017. Retrieved 17 January 2020.
  165. ^ "An unofficial translation of the letter from the Federal Tax Service of Russia "On the measures regarding the exercise of control over the circulation of cryptocurrencies"". Russian E-Money Association. Archived from the original on 25 August 2018. Retrieved 20 December 2016.
  166. ^ "Замминистра финансов РФ назвал незаконными расчеты в криптовалютах". Interfax.ru (in Russian). 8 September 2017. Archived from the original on 3 April 2019. Retrieved 16 September 2017.
  167. ^ "Приморский районный суд города Санкт-Петербурга". Primorsky--spb.sudrf.ru. Archived from the original on 18 May 2020. Retrieved 22 March 2019.
  168. ^ "On the use of "virtual currencies" in transactions, in particular, Bitcoin". Press Service of The Central Bank of Russia. 4 September 2017. Archived from the original on 8 September 2017. Retrieved 17 January 2020.
  169. ^ Putin Says He Accepts Crypto’s Role in Making Payments Archived 14 October 2021 at the Wayback Machine, Bloomberg News, 14 October 2021, retrieved 15 October 2021.
  170. ^ Seddon, Max; Szalay, Eva (20 January 2022). "Russia's central bank proposes ban on crypto trading and mining". Financial Times. Archived from the original on 28 January 2022. Retrieved 28 January 2022.
  171. ^ "Bank of Russia Seeks to Outlaw Mining and Trading of Crypto". Bloomberg.com. 20 January 2022. Archived from the original on 28 January 2022. Retrieved 20 January 2022.
  172. ^ "Bloomberg: ФСБ убедила Центробанк запретить криптовалюты в России, так как они используются для финансирования "иностранных агентов"". Meduza (in Russian). Archived from the original on 28 January 2022. Retrieved 20 January 2022.
  173. ^ "Press review: What Macron told Zelensky and Russia moves to regulate cryptocurrency". TASS. Archived from the original on 9 February 2022. Retrieved 9 February 2022.
  174. ^ "Russia Races to Legalize Crypto as Sanctions Weigh On Companies". Bloomberg.com. 30 July 2024. Retrieved 31 July 2024.
  175. ^ Bryanski, Gleb (30 July 2024). "Russia to allow crypto payments in international trade to counter sanctions". Reuters.
  176. ^ Ukraine legalizes crypto sector as digital currency donations continue to pour in Archived 29 March 2022 at the Wayback Machine, 17 March 2022
  177. ^ Ukraine's central bank is banning bitcoin purchases made with the hyrvnia to prevent capital from fleeing the war-ravaged country Archived 22 April 2022 at the Wayback Machine, 22 April 2022
  178. ^ "Advarsel mod virtuelle valutaer" [Warning against virtual currencies] (in Danish). Financial Supervisory Authority. 17 December 2013. Archived from the original on 17 December 2013.
  179. ^ Schwartzkopff, Frances. "Bitcoins Spark Regulatory Crackdown as Denmark Drafts Rules". Archived from the original on 18 December 2013. Retrieved 24 December 2013.
  180. ^ "Analüüs: olemuslikke takistusi Bitcoini kasutamise seadustamiseks pole". Majandus (in Estonian). Archived from the original on 16 March 2017. Retrieved 15 March 2017.
  181. ^ a b "Virtuaalivaluuttojen tuloverotus". Verohallinto. Archived from the original on 22 August 2017. Retrieved 22 March 2019.
  182. ^ Joe Stanley-Smith (14 November 2014). "Finland recognises Bitcoin services as VAT exempt". International Tax Review. Archived from the original on 18 November 2014. Retrieved 15 November 2014.
  183. ^ "KVL:034/2014". Verohallinto. Archived from the original on 31 July 2017. Retrieved 22 March 2019.
  184. ^ "Significant risk attached to use of virtual currency". cb.is. The Central Bank of Iceland. 19 March 2014. Archived from the original on 11 April 2018. Retrieved 17 June 2015.
  185. ^ Fidel Martinez; Rob Wile (23 September 2014). "U.S. hesitation is chasing Bitcoin to Europe". Archived from the original on 27 August 2016. Retrieved 8 January 2015.
  186. ^ Nathaniel Popper (21 December 2013). "Into the Bitcoin Mines". Deal Book New York Times. New York Times Company. Archived from the original on 3 May 2019. Retrieved 9 December 2014.
  187. ^ "Höftin stöðva viðskipti með Bitcoin (Controls suspend trading in bitcoin)". mbl.is (in Icelandic). Morgunblaðið. 19 December 2013. Archived from the original on 26 November 2018. Retrieved 19 December 2013.
  188. ^ "Progress of the Plan for Removal of Capital Controls" (PDF). ministryoffinance.is. The Ministry of Finance. 25 April 2017. Archived (PDF) from the original on 11 April 2018. Retrieved 5 June 2017.
  189. ^ "Lietuvos bankas apsisprendė dėl bitkoinų". Verslo žinios. 31 January 2014. Archived from the original on 9 July 2015. Retrieved 31 January 2014.
  190. ^ Saleha Mohsin (13 December 2013) Bitcoins Fail Currency Test in Scandinavia’s Richest Nation Archived 28 December 2014 at the Wayback Machine Bloomberg. Retrieved 13 December 2013
  191. ^ Finansdepartementet (9 February 2017). "Bitcoin er unntatt fra merverdiavgift". Regjeringen.no (in Norwegian). Archived from the original on 15 December 2018. Retrieved 2 April 2017.
  192. ^ Diacono, Tim (20 April 2017). "Malta set for 'revolutionary' national blockchain strategy". MaltaToday. Archived from the original on 24 June 2019. Retrieved 25 April 2017.
  193. ^ "Announcement by NBRM". National Bank of Republic of North Macedonia. 28 September 2016. Archived from the original on 23 June 2018. Retrieved 21 June 2018.
  194. ^ "Réguler les monnaies virtuelles" (PDF). Ministre des Finances. Archived (PDF) from the original on 5 August 2016. Retrieved 6 June 2016.
  195. ^ "Communique virtual currencies" (PDF). Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier. Archived from the original (PDF) on 11 January 2018. Retrieved 15 October 2015.
  196. ^ SG (12 October 2015). "SnapSwap Granted License for EU Operations". Chronicle.lu. Archived from the original on 6 November 2019. Retrieved 6 November 2019.
  197. ^ "Cryptocurrencies (like bitcoin)". belastingdienst.nl. 24 January 2023. Archived from the original on 24 January 2023. Retrieved 24 January 2023.
  198. ^ "Tax treatment of activities involving Bitcoin and other similar cryptocurrencies". HM Revenue & Customs. Archived from the original on 9 March 2014. Retrieved 11 March 2014.
  199. ^ Moon, M. (11 March 2022). "UK's financial regulator orders shutdown of all Bitcoin ATMs". Engadget. Archived from the original on 11 March 2022. Retrieved 11 March 2022.
  200. ^ Titcomb, James (11 March 2022). "Bitcoin cashpoints forced to shut down after being declared illegal". The Telegraph. Archived from the original on 11 March 2022. Retrieved 11 March 2022.
  201. ^ Hartge-Hazelman, Bianca (13 December 2013). "Glenn Stevens says Bitcoins show promise, but so did tulips". JHT. The Australian Financial Review. Archived from the original on 21 October 2014. Retrieved 21 September 2014.
  202. ^ "New Australian laws to regulate cryptocurrency providers | AUSTRAC". www.austrac.gov.au. Archived from the original on 4 June 2021. Retrieved 10 June 2021.
  203. ^ "Tuvalu chases digital immortality on a blockchain". Radio New Zealand. 14 March 2021. Archived from the original on 5 January 2023. Retrieved 5 January 2023.
  204. ^ "Crypto Ban is Finally Lifted in Vanuatu after Lobbying Efforts of Lawyers | Finance Magnates". 26 July 2021. Archived from the original on 5 January 2023. Retrieved 5 January 2023.
  205. ^ "Tiny Palau seeks to blaze trail with official crypto". Archived from the original on 5 January 2023. Retrieved 5 January 2023.
  206. ^ "Tongan MP plans bill to make bitcoin legal tender". Radio New Zealand. 3 November 2021. Archived from the original on 5 January 2023. Retrieved 5 January 2023.