Moldova Moves to Legalize Bitcoin Trading in 2026, but Crypto Won’t Be Legal Tender

• Moldova plans to roll out a full crypto legal framework in 2026 to align with EU standards.
• Crypto trading will be legal but barred as a payment method, with strict rules on operators.
• Profits from crypto will face a 12% tax as authorities tighten AML and security oversight.

The Republic of Moldova is set to introduce a legal framework for Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies in 2026, taking a major step toward aligning its financial rules with European regulatory standards. A draft law led by the Ministry of Finance is expected to be released for public consultation in the coming period, aiming to create clear rules for crypto activity while addressing financial stability, security, and compliance risks.

According to statements made, Moldova’s Minister of Finance, Andrian Gavriliță, said the government is working toward a complete and coherent crypto legal framework to be implemented in 2026. The draft legislation is being developed in coordination with key state institutions, including the National Bank of Moldova, the National Commission for Financial Markets, and the Service for the Prevention and Combating of Money Laundering.

While Moldova is not yet a member of the European Union, officials have linked the initiative to the country’s broader efforts to align its laws with EU directives as part of its accession process. Recent reforms have focused on economic governance, security policy, and regulatory oversight, with digital assets now added to that agenda.

Scope of Permitted Crypto Activity

The proposed legal structure is expected to define who may legally conduct crypto transactions, which entities are authorized to operate in the crypto market, and who is permitted to convert digital assets into Moldovan lei or foreign currencies.

Under the draft rules, cryptocurrency will not be recognized as legal tender and will not be allowed as a means of payment within the country. However, ownership and trading of crypto assets would be fully permitted.

Related: EU Ends Crypto Privacy With DAC8 Requiring Automatic Transaction Reporting to Authorities

Officials have said the structure is intended to provide legal clarity, strengthen consumer protection, and give the state greater visibility and control over crypto-related activity, while still allowing the sector to operate within defined boundaries.

Tax Treatment and Security Context

The Ministry of Finance has also outlined a tax regime under the proposed law. Holding cryptocurrency would not be subject to taxation, while profits from crypto transactions would be taxed at 12%, in line with other income-generating activities in Moldova.

The policy push comes along with heightened concerns over security and money laundering. Authorities have referenced a recent investigation involving treason and espionage allegations, in which crypto and the hawala system were reportedly used to transfer funds from Russia into Moldova to finance hostile activities. Gavriliță cited the case as evidence of vulnerabilities created by the absence of a clear crypto legal framework.

Related: EU’s Controversial Asset Registry Proposal Sparks Privacy Debate