Is crypto legal in Italy?

It is legal to use crypto in Italy, but it is not legal tender. The euro remains the only official currency. Italy applies the European Union’s Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCAR) rules, which set standards for consumer protection and market integrity. Providers of crypto services must register with authorities such as the Bank of Italy and Consob. Income from crypto transactions is taxable. The gains must be reported to the Agenzia delle Entrate.

Crypto taxes in Italy

Crypto assets are taxed under Italy’s general tax framework and follow EU guidelines:

• Capital Gains Tax (CGT). As of 2025, profits from disposals are subject to a 26% tax rate, rising to 33% in 2026, according to Italian tax law. Individuals should consult the Agenzia delle Entrate or a qualified tax advisor for guidance. The €2,000 annual exemption ends in 2025. Taxable events include converting crypto to euros, using it for purchases, or exchanging it for assets with different characteristics.
• Income tax. Applies to earnings from mining, staking, lending, or NFT sales. Rates follow the IRPEF brackets: 23% up to €28,000; 35% from €28,001 to €50,000; 43% above €50,000.
• Wealth tax (IVCA/IVAFE). A yearly 0.2% levy applies to crypto held with non-Italian custodians, reported in quadro RW. For assets kept with Italian providers, a 0.2% stamp duty is charged directly by the provider.

Brief crypto tax overview:

For more details, see Italy’s Agenzia delle Entrate guidelines.

Crypto regulations and compliance rules

Regulation (EU) 2023/1114, called MiCAR, establishes EU rules for crypto issuers and service providers. It was adopted in 2023 and took effect in June that year. Most provisions apply from 30 December 2024. Firms already operating under national rules before that date may continue until 1 July 2026, but they must obtain MiCAR authorisation to operate beyond that point.

Italy regulates cryptocurrency businesses under both domestic law and EU-wide frameworks:

• OAM registry. Providers that serve Italian residents must enrol in the OAM special register for virtual currency operators.
• AML obligations. Providers must meet Italian anti-money-laundering rules and perform KYC checks.
• EU MiCA regulation. MiCAR introduces the CASP regime and a national authorisation route for service providers.
• Consumer protection. Marketing and disclosures must be clear and not misleading. Supervisors issue rules and guidance on transparency.

Key compliance requirements for crypto businesses in Italy:

• Authorisation. Services such as custody, trading platforms, brokerage, intermediation, and public offerings need formal approval. Oversight comes from the OAM, the Bank of Italy, and Consob.
• KYC and AML checks. Providers must verify customer identity and report suspicious transactions to the Financial Intelligence Unit (UIF).
• Transaction monitoring and reporting. Firms must assess risks, keep proper records, and submit reports on suspicious activity as required by law.
• Alignment with MiCA. Companies must comply with MiCAR rules and follow new technical standards as they are issued.

Conclusion: regulatory status of crypto in Italy

Cryptocurrency is lawful in Italy, but activity must follow strict national and EU rules. Registration with the OAM, compliance with AML obligations, and alignment with MiCAR form the backbone of the legal framework. These measures create clarity for investors and accountability for businesses. Italy has positioned itself as a jurisdiction where digital assets can operate under defined, enforceable standards.

Disclaimer: This text is for informational purposes only. Any individual or entity conducting crypto-related activity should seek professional legal advice. All information is accurate as of September 2025 and may change over time.